Ensuring the privacy and security of student data in our schools is paramount. While public school districts can sometimes appear as slow-moving entities, the pace often accelerates regarding educational technology. There is a temptation to move fast—purchasing software and diving into professional development—without fully addressing strict data privacy measures. However, rushing deployment without proper privacy considerations can lead to significant challenges for everyone involved. Read more…
Phase II (and III) ECF Grant Supports New Chromebooks
Included in the American Rescue Plan funding through the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (ECF), we submitted a grant to close the homework gap. We received $106,000 to purchase new HP Chromebooks for students! FCC’s Emergency Connectivity Fund Program is a new program that funds schools to help cover the costs of laptop and tablet computers and Wi-Fi hotspots for off-campus use by students, school staff, and library patrons. Read more…
Limitless Learning Opportunities with Middle School One-to-One
The middle school continues to improve the One-to-One, building-based Google Chromebook program, and over the past seven months, a new appreciation has formed for the availability and learning possibilities they provide. Chromebooks are becoming industry-standard devices, affordable and durable, and make up over half of the devices shipped to the K-12 education market. Building on similar One-to-One computing environments at both Florence Roche and Swallow Union, middle school students are responsible for their assigned Chromebooks, following core values connected to positivity, integrity, and respect. Read more…
1:1 Chromebook Letter to Parents
Just a sample of what I began to work on for a building based, 1:1 program at our middle school.
For this school year, we are excited to share that the Groton-Dunstable Regional Middle School will launch a 1:1 program employing Google Chromebooks during the school day. Read more…
Implementing a Google Apps Ninja Program
About a year ago, I came across impressive resources on Google Apps for Education provided by Jeff Utecht on The Thinking Stick website titled, “Become a Google Apps Ninja.” Now I had heard educators having the ability to become Google Certified, a program I would like to complete myself, however the concept of opening this up to students blew my mind. My first thought was, “how can I get this program into my school?” Having students develop online search skills as well has the ability to communicate (online) and troubleshoot is nearly as important as the underlying material the students will learn. Giving students the ability to “fish” will open many more doors with technology. I was sold instantly. Read more…