Technology Updates
July 30, 2020
New Mac Image for WCPS MacBooks
The Device Administrators within Technology have been working extensively the last several months to improve upon the way our Macs perform in several different areas. We took to heart all of your Support requests and issues sent to us over the years, such as key-chain errors, software installations, and printer installs at home. We know how important the overall functionality is to you. We have created what we feel is a great balance between your needs as staff and the needs of WCPS Technology to keep WCPS' equipment secure, up to date, and in legal compliance.
Why is it changing?
Did you know that more than half of our current Macs are running on Operating System (OS) versions that are several years out of date? This provides opportunity to get all of the staff Macs on a clean and up-to-date configuration. Given the increase over the last few years with viruses, malware, etc., it is imperative, more now than ever before, that we do our best to ensure that the device we have provided you to do your professional work is safe, secure, and actively monitored for out-of-date software or other issues that could prevent programs from operating successfully.
Our goal is to update every MacBook to ensure all devices are running on the same OS. The update will improve the user experience and facilitate the implementation of the distance-learning plan.
The updates and installations cannot be done remotely. Therefore, we ask that teachers bring their Mac to any WCPS school location and provide contact information so we can advise when your device is ready for pickup. Technology anticipates that your device will be ready within 1-2 business days. All CDC guidelines will be followed to keep the devices free of contamination during the process.
BEFORE we can image the new configuration you MUST ensure all of your files are moved over to Google Drive and/or One Drive!! Anything you want to save, please take the time to move it over. We will not be able to move it or recover it unless it is in Google Drive or One Drive.
Upon picking up your device, plan to stay for 20 minutes so that you can go through all of the sign in and configuration prompts while Technology support is available to assist you, just in case.
What will change or look different?
Logging In
This is the most noticeable change. This is the log-in process you will follow after your MacBook is re-imaged.
To log in from a shutdown state or after a reboot you will be required to enter your e-mail address once and type your password three times. If the Mac Book is on but logged out, you will need to enter your e-mail once and password twice. If logged in but on a ‘lock screen’ you will only need to enter your password once.
Full log in process from a Restart or Shutdown:
1. File Vault Login (just password)
This appears only after the User has turned on File Vault. It is mandatory after 4 logins. Once setup, this User will be the only person who is able to enter a password here to unlock the MacBook.
2. Microsoft Sign-in (full e-mail address & password)
Local Login is available if no network connection is present, assuming the account has been created once.
3. Jamf Connect Login (re-enter password)
4. Acceptable Use Agreement (“I Agree” check-box & click Done)
Quick Launch Support Tasks
Taking into consideration the support tickets generated over the years, we have come up with a Quick launch icon that resides in the top right corner (near the time/date) that is a direct link for:
- Password Resets - this will give you notification at 15 days in advance of expiring. Once changed here it automatically synchronizes the Mac login as well so there are no additional steps needed even if you change it at home.
- Software Help - This takes you directly into Self Service to search for all of our programs that we have created packages that are approved for District Use. As a reminder, if you need software that is not in Self Service, please create a Support Ticket.
- Support Help - This directs you straight to the IT Help Ticket system. You can easily create a new support request, or look for a status update on something you have opened before.
Apple’s iCloud is not paid for or managed by WCPS, therefore we cannot continue to provide it on WCPS devices. It will not be on the new image, so please do not move your files to iCloud. If you have items on iCloud currently that are WCPS-specific, please move them to Google Drive and/or One Drive.
Changes to Software and App Availability
Each year WCPS is required to comply with federal and state laws regarding usage and interaction with students for websites, apps, videos, and communication that at any time incorporates internet communication.
For purposeful communication between students and/or parents and guardians, the following channels should be utilized:
- StudentVUE
- ParentVUE
- Google Classroom
- WCPS email - All students K-12 have WCPS email
To ensure that WCPS maintains compliance with these laws, we must review the programs utilized for student and/or family collaboration, communication, curriculum, and instructional guidance. As such, there are several programs that when used improperly are a risk to WCPS staff and/or student privacy and therefore can no longer be supported within the district.
WCPS now has a Software Steering Committee that meets on a monthly basis to assess and review programs requested for district/classroom use. The programs are evaluated on several areas, and a collective determination is made for approval or decline. This review process goes a long way to help ensure that our devices will perform to their best capability and prevent malware.
The programs that will not be available in Mac/iPad Self Service and Windows 10 Software Center starting on 8/21/2020 are as follows:
- Pearson System of Courses – Retired by Pearson
- Google Cast for Education Chrome Extension – Retired by Google
- School City – no longer used by WCPS
- Daisy Quest – incompatible with WCPS 1 to 1 devices
- Class DoJo – Does not follow federal laws, please refer to communication channels above.
- Seesaw - Does not follow federal laws, please refer to communication channels above
- Remind - Does not follow federal laws, please refer to communication channels above
- Zoom – Will remain in place until Google Meet has Breakout Rooms available, we will provide a communication to let you know when the switch will happen and be replaced by Google Meet since it integrates now with Google Classroom
- EdPuzzle – Does not follow federal laws, WCPS is unable to enforce YouTube Safe for students