FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

PARENT TECH NIGHT - NOVEMBER 30, 6:00 PM AT SHS AUDITORIUM

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is 1 to 1?
"1 to 1" or "1:1" or "one to one" means providing 1 device for every 1 student

When does it begin?
Beginning in the 2016-17 school year, high school and middle school students (grades 7-12) will receive a MacBook Air.

What if I don't have Internet at home? Will I still be able to access my school work?

Google Drive has offline sync which will allow limited use at home. However, students will not be able to submit homework or access the internet if wifi is unavailable. Students will have wifi access throughout the day at school, and are encouraged to utilize the internet whenever possible such as during Seminar. The district is exploring options to improve internet access for students and families outside of the school setting.

Easy access wifi spots in the Seaman School District and Topeka area include:

  • The Pad
  • Walmart
  • Topeka Public Library
  • Dillons
  • McDonald's
  • Washburn University Library
  • Starbucks
  • Panera

Wifi access is available to students at the high school:

1) In the commons before school and after school (7 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

2) In the Library at 7:15 a.m.

3) In the Library on Tuesday and Thursday after school from 3:00 to 3:50. Students can make arrangements to take the ASAP Bus home.

Wifi access is available to students at the middle school:

1) 7:20 am- 4pm- commons

2) ASAP- Mon./Wed. - 3:15- 4:30pm

Will internet content be filtered at school and at home?

Internet content will only be filtered at school.

What happens if my device is damaged or stolen?

The district will determine if it is a covered loss. Each incident will be handled on an individual basis. Devices reported lost or stolen will be rendered inoperable.

Will I be required to purchase a protective case and/or bag for my device?

No. Students will be expected to keep their device within the district provided case at all times.

When and how will I get my device?

The district has set a deployment and device orientation schedule for grades 7-12 for the 2016-2017 school year. New students who start after the first day of school will set up a time to go through orientation materials with their building prior to receiving a device.

August 8, 6:00 pm SHS Parent & Senior 1:1 Orientation at SHS
August 9, 6:00 pm SHS Parent & Junior 1:1 Orientation at SHS
August 10, 6:00 pm SMS Parent & 7th Grade Student Orientation and 1:1 Orientation @ SMS
August 11, 6:00 pm SMS Parent & 8th Grade Student Orientation and 1:1 Orientation @ SMS
August 15, 6:00 pm SHS Parent & Sophomore 1:1 Orientation at SHS
August 16, 6:00 pm SHS Parent & Freshman New Student Orientation and 1:1 Orientation at SHS

How will the school handle multiple devices needing to be charged for classroom use?

Students will be expected to bring their devices to school fully charged. With normal use, the MacBook Air charges quickly and should hold its charge throughout the entire day.

How is one student's device identified from another student's device?

Each computer will be tagged and uniquely identified. Each computer will also be password protected.

What happens to my device if I get suspended from school?

It will depend on the type of suspension as well as the length of time. This policy is to be determined.

Where do I get my login information?

Students will create their own login as part of the initial device distribution and setup.

What is my Apple ID?

No Apple ID will be needed. Students are free to use their personal ID if they choose but it will not be required.

Will I be able to print from my device?

Yes.

Can I download apps?

Yes.

Will I keep my device over the summer?

No. Devices will be turned in at the end of the school year in order to refresh computers. Students will be able to backup files and documents prior to turning in computers.

Will I have the same device for the following school year?

Yes.

Can the district track web history?

Yes.

Will I still have textbooks?

Yes. However, the district is transitioning to a digital environment in the future.

Can I opt out of having a device?

No. All students will be issued a device.

Will I receive any training on operating my device?

Yes.

Will I receive training on Internet safety?

Digital citizenship will be provided annually.

Will I be able to take my device to an after-school club, activity, or sport?

It is recommended that students do not take devices to an after school event or activity. However, there may be some instances where it may be reasonable for a device to be taken to an after school event or activity because a student needs a device in order to participate.

Whether or not a student needs a device in order to participate in an after school event or activity is determined by the coach/sponsor, and the school principal must be notified in advance. Keep in mind, once a device leaves school premises it is the responsibility of the student and/or parent to ensure the device is secure. In most after school events/activities, devices will be left unattended at some point. In addition, devices may be exposed to extreme temperatures if left in a bus or car. This policy is an attempt to discourage theft and potential damage to devices and will be monitored and evaluated with revisions if necessary.

Will tech support be available to students?

Tech support will only be provided during the school day.

Will I be required to download any apps that cost money?

No.

What if I don't want my child to bring his/her laptop home?

Laptops can be stored in the student's locker if you wish to keep them at the school. Students will still be responsible for charging the device.

Can you buy the MacBook your senior year?

Laptops are on a five year cycle and will not be available for purchase.

Can I set parental controls on my device?

No.

What if the device doesn't fit in my child's locker?

Laptops and cases will fit in lockers. Please see pictures below.

locker lockers

Laptops

Do you still have a question?
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