Tech Update
GAPS Technology | March 16, 2021
Classroom and School Technology
It is STRONGLY recommended that elementary teachers rely on the desktop computers already in their classrooms for use with the SmartBoards, projection, and doc cam. Teachers can use their laptops for CDL.
For secondary classrooms with SmartBoards, it cannot be guaranteed the interactive component will work when they return. They will be able to use their SmartBoard as a projection surface, as always. The concern also is the sanitizing of the SmartBoard between teachers, particularly at middle schools.
Technology used in classrooms beyond the standard district setup cannot be supported by GAPS IT, as all hands will be on deck supporting district-provided equipment and infrastructure.
Chromebooks and Chrome Tablets
Reminder: Chromebooks that have been powerwashed or personal devices that have never been used on campus will need to be connected to the building wifi on the first day a student returns to the school. Teachers will need to be ready to help students get connected.
Cases for K-1 Chrome tablets have arrived, as have headphones for K-5 hybrid students. Chromebook cases have been ordered for hybrid students in grades 2-5, but those have not yet arrived.
Grade Data and Canvas Backup
Backing up Canvas courses at the end of the school year is also recommended.
Bringing Your Own Device (BYOD) - Staff and Students:
Once hybrid instruction begins, students are expected to bring a device to and from school each day, just as they would a textbook. Students who have been using a personal device during Comprehensive Distance Learning can check out a district-provided Chromebook (or Chrome Tab grades K-1) from their school if preferred. If students need to check out a GAPS Chromebook or Chrome Tab, they should contact their school office. Students should be sure the device is fully charged prior to coming to school; with space limitations, charging may be difficult during the school day. There will no longer be classroom Chromebook carts, as each student should have a device checked out to them.
Technical support will not be available for personal devices for STAFF OR STUDENTS beyond helping to log the device onto the network. Staff personal devices will not have access to the network drive (P: drive). There will be a limited number of devices for student use in each classroom in the event a student has a technical difficulty. These devices will remain in the classroom and will not be checked out to students.
Spanish Language Help Desk
GAPS IT is happy to announce that we have a Spanish Language Help Desk for our Spanish-speaking families needing technical assistance. Hours are 7:30am - 4:00pm. Contact our Spanish Language Help Desk at 541-967-4550 or gaps.it@albany.k12.or.us.
Canvas Support - Phone, Chat, Video
- Canvas Support Hotline - 877-376-0958
- Chat with Canvas Support - Live Chat with Canvas Support
- Training Services Portal - Access Canvas training videos and courses
Teacher Technology Information
Who to ask:
Canvas questions: building Canvas site admin / teacher leader
Pinnacle questions: Jon Dilbone <jon.dilbone@albany.k12.or.us>
Clever / Seesaw: Dan Rothwell <dan.rothwell@albany.k12.or.us>
Savvas Realize / NGConnect: Brian Baker <brian.baker@albany.k12.or.us>
Computer hardware / network issues: GAPS IT <GAPS.IT@albany.k12.or.us>