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PWSSD Personalized Learning Initiative Information
The Port Washington-Saukville School District has chosen to enhance individualized student learning next school year with a comprehensive technology initiative. Several research studies have found that 1:1 programs enhance student achievement in writing, problem-solving, reading, and math. Others have found that 1:1 programs decrease achievement gaps between socioeconomic groups and students with varied learning abilities, and shift the ways that students learn by increasing student engagement with course content and learning assessments. Students involved in technology programs also develop information literacy and digital communication skills. Finally, studies show that teachers shift from whole class teaching to more individualized instruction and student-centered learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
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General
Why iPads and Chromebooks? Why were these devices chosen?
In kindergarten, academic classrooms will have five iPads for their learning centers along with a set for specials and special education. In grades 1-12, Chromebooks will be issued to each student.
What software will the students be using?
Students will be using the software and applications associated with the device that is issued. They will not have Microsoft Suite of products on their personal devices, but they will still be able to access them using school computers in labs. Google Apps for Education will be the main resources for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Will headsets be provided?
Students will need to supply their own listening devices. Parents will need to work with their child to obtain the right device. Students will be required to keep their sound levels such that they would not be audible to others.
Can students print from their device while at school?
Infinate Campus, our Learning Management System, allows students and staff to hand out and/or turn in information electronically. If a student needs to print, they would need to log onto a district computer in order to do so.
Will the device be turned-in each year?
The devices will be turned in at the end of the school year unless optional insurance coverage is chosen for multiple years. If multiple year insurance is chosen, then the student will be able to keep the device over the summer months.
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Education/Applications
How does 1:1 change what happens in the classroom?
The personalized learning devices serve as tools to foster collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity. Our teachers are facilitators of student learning experiences and individual discovery. Research has shown that students using personalized learning devices are more engaged and excited about learning.
How are student devices incorporated into a teacher's daily classroom routine?
Ultimately, the goal of the District 1:1 initiative is to enhance student learning and engagement through the use of appropriate student technology. This does not mean that a teacher will be using student devices for EVERY aspect of their daily classroom routine. Teachers have received extensive training and professional development to use best practices incorporating digital tools into everyday learning.
How does the 1:1 program affect special education students?
Special education students also receive district issued devices. Special education teachers prepare well-crafted lessons and resources that utilize personalized devices effectively.
Can students use their own device?
No. The District expects students to use the district-issued device during the school day. Using the same device will decrease the risk of unique issues and allow teachers to plan and prepare for what each student will see on a common device.
How are social networking (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) and other distractions managed?
Rules and expectations for these sites and others are provided in an individual school's handbook. Administrative guidelines on student use of social media can be found here.
Can parents and students install applications on district issued devices?
No. All necessary applications used by teachers in the district will be provided for each student.
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Internet
If I already have an Internet provider at home, will my student be able to access our service with their device?
Yes, if you have the capability of connecting wirelessly. Students can also use any computer with Internet access to complete their school work.
Is the student required to have Internet access at home?
Students are not required to have Internet access at home. This is entirely optional and that decision is to be made in each home. However, the school district believes that having Internet access at home does provide a valuable educational opportunity for the student. Free Internet access can also be found at a variety of locations throughout the community.
If our family does not have wireless Internet at home, can I use a wired connection?
No, Chromebooks are wireless-only devices. Students are able to use any computer at home with Internet access to compete their school work.
How will my student get their work done if they do not have Internet access at home?
Port Washington schools will be open for periods before and after school (see the individual schools for hours) for filtered Internet access. Teachers will also work with students to provide alternative access or materials as needed on a case by case basis.
Where can we find free Wi-Fi access throughout the community?
Wi-Fi access is available to students at each school in the district adjacent to school hours. Both public libraries offer free Internet access. Area business may offer free access to customers as well.
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Repair/Battery
Are the devices insured?
The district offers optional insurance for student issued devices during the registration process each year. If a parent chooses not to take the district offered insurance, they will be responsible for repair or replacement costs if lost or damaged.
What does a parent need to do if a device is lost?
The replacement cost of $300 for a Chromebook will be charged to the parent. A day loaner device will be issued until the replacement fee is paid. Insurance does not cover loss.
Will homeowners insurance cover the device?
Each family will have to check with their personal insurance agent. Most homeowners insurance would include the device under their coverage, but the deductible level would make the claim of limited or no value.
What happens if the device is not working?
Students should fill out a TECH work ticket for their device at the library media center, and will be issued a device on loan, if needed, while the issue is being resolved.
Are there fees associated with repairing a device that is not functioning?
In most cases, repairs will be covered under the purchased district insurance policy. If you choose to insure the device under a homeowners' policy, please check with your personal insurance agent for coverage details. The student would not be responsible for an amount greater than the replacement value of the device.
What happens if a student is having technical issues with their device or feels it is in need of repair?
We ask that the student take the first steps to troubleshoot technical issues. In each classroom there is a list of the three most common troubleshooting techniques that should be attempted before asking for help. At the elementary schools and middle school, students having an issue they cannot resolve should go to the library desk for assistance. At the high school, a Chrome Help Desk in the library will provide assistance. Either students or PWSSD staff will be available to assist intermittently during the day and routinely after school.
How long is the battery life for the devices?
The Chromebook battery life is listed at 7+ hours. Battery life is very dependent on what the user is doing on the device and will vary greatly. It is important that each device receives a full charge each night.
Will I need to charge the battery at home, or will I be able to charge it at school?
The student will be expected to bring their device to school daily, fully charged.
What happens if I lose my power cord or would like to purchase an extra one?
Power cords can be purchased on your own. Some additional cords will be available for purchase at the school offices, but power cords will not be available for checkout. All devices are issued with a charger and a case and must be turned in at the end of the year with both a working charger and the case.
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Safety/Security
How do students keep themselves safe on the internet?
Students can ensure their safety on the Internet by not posting personal information about themselves or other people. This includes, but is not limited to, addresses, phone numbers, name of the city where you live, name of the school you attend, or any other personal information or numbers that are associated with you. Students should never agree to meet with someone they have met online. They should talk to a staff member or trusted adult about anything they may encounter that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable.
What keeps students from getting to inappropriate websites?
District filtering software is installed on our network to help block inappropriate websites. As new websites are created that are deemed inappropriate, they are blocked for student access. As a part of good citizenship, students will be taught to avoid or leave inappropriate sites and use the Web in appropriate ways.
What things can't a student do with their device?
- Use the device for private or commercial gain or private or personal advertising.
- Download copyright protected materials or applications without consent.
- Invade the privacy of others or post anonymous messages.
- Use the device to access, submit, post/publish or display defamatory, inaccurate, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing or illegal material, or anything deemed educationally inappropriate or against any provision in District policy.
- Break copyright laws.
Materials and applications installed at home and brought to school and deemed in violation of District Policy will be subject to disciplinary action. Remember, the computer is considered property of the District and can be searched or confiscated at any time deemed necessary.
Can parents use a student's device?
Yes. We want the 1:1 device experience to include parents and guardians of our students. The device is an opportunity for all to get involved and part of the education experience. Student use of the device MUST be a FIRST PRIORITY however. In addition, ANYONE using a school device must comply with the district's acceptable use policy.
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Student Cost
How much does it cost?
There is no direct additional cost to the student for using the device. The only cost that can be associated with the device is the optional insurance that the parent/guardian can take out for each device on a yearly basis. If a parent chooses not to take the district offered insurance, they will be responsible for repair or replacement costs if lost or damaged.
What are consumable and lab fees?
Federal law requires schools to provide a free and appropriate education. Fees for supplies, textbooks, workbooks, rentals, and individual subscription to materials or applications are permissible. The law permits schools to charge fees for consumables that would include the issuance of a personal learning device.
My student is a senior. Can they purchase the Chromebook at the end of the year?
No. The Chromebooks are the sole property of the PWSSD and will be used over their lifespan.
What is the full replacement value of the device?
The replacement value for an iPad is $399 and for a Chromebook is $250.
What happens when the device needs to be repaired or seen by a technician?
The PWSSD Technology Department will perform all repairs. Do not take the device to a repair service outside of school as this voids the warranty. All requested repairs will be submitted by the technology department, who will determine the severity of the issue and assign it to the proper repair technician. The student will submit their request and leave the device with the media center representative and be assigned a loaner device. Once the repair is complete, the device will be returned to the student.
Who pays for other damages to the device?
Normal and routine maintenance/repair issues are covered by the District. Only when the damages are determined to have been caused intentionally or unintentionally due to a lack of reasonable precautions will the student/parent/guardian be responsible for the charges associated with the repair. Building administrators and technical support staff will determine if the damage is intentional and calculate the cost of repairs.
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Student Training/Expectations
How will students be prepared for the responsibility of having their own computing devices?
Digital citizenship will be an ongoing theme in our classrooms throughout the year. On the first day of instruction following device deployment, classes will be dedicated to teaching best practice, safe use, and digital citizenship.
Will cases be provided to protect the device?
The District will provide high quality cases made specifically to protect each device. Students will still need to be careful, however, because accidents can still occur.
Will my student be able to provide their own case?
No.
How should students care for their device?
Students and parents will sign off on a list of best care practices to receive their devices. Students are responsible for damage, loss, or theft. Insurance is available to be purchased by the parent and is recommended for all students.
How can students identify their device?
Each Chromebook case contains an ID card for the student.
Can my student take their device home?
Yes, students are expected to take devices home.
What happens if students forget to bring their device to school?
Students will be able to check out a loaner device for the day and return it at the end of the day. If students habitually "forget" their device, they may lose the privilege of taking their device home at night.