Principals' Message
Technology in Distance Learning
A Technology Note from the Principals...
Distance Learning has propelled teachers, students and families into the vast world of technology where learning has evolved into a virtual classroom. Teaching and learning could not be done without the incredible tools available to our teachers and students. Although technology has created a new avenue for learning, it has also heightened our awareness for clarity in expectations for safe and effective use. Here are some tips below that will help families explore and discuss technology use during distance learning.
Discuss with your child the importance of not sharing private information such as full name, date of birth, address, phone number, passwords, or photos of self.
Take advantage of privacy settings, content filtering, and monitor your child navigating sites.
Distance learning has required additional screen time that is not ideal for elementary students. To support balance, please have your child shut down from screen time and encourage activities that stretch imagination, support physical activity and grow family time.
Discuss with your child the use of kind, respectful language and actions when responding to others via text, google commenting, and Zoom and/or google chats.
- Encourage your child to report any concerning or mean language/actions that may negatively impact someone’s emotional well-being to you or a trusted adult.
- If your child would like to communicate socially with friends using a personal device through Zoom or google hangouts, please request permission from other parents and determine who will supervise the communication.
One way to communicate expectations with your child is to create a family technology distance learning plan. List important safety and communication expectations and agree to use technology as a tool for learning. Review this plan weekly to support positive technology use in your household. For further ideas related to technology and online digital citizenship visit Common Sense Media and select the tab What Parents Need to Know. For age appropriate information, please use these direct links: Children 5-7, Children 8-9 and Children 10-12.
- From Common Sense Media also is a great video for children, Pause and Think Online,
- Another important resource is Think Before You Click from Homeland Security.
Elementary students have been exposed to a wide range of technology tools which have elevated their skills to a new level of use. Adult supervision and coaching are essential in creating a safe virtual environment for all our students that supports learning and overall balance. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please contact your school principal.
Sincerely,
Cathy Colella
Emily Judd
Updating Chromebooks
How do I update my Chromebook?
Chromebooks that are not updated may not work properly. Follow the directions below to update your child's Chromebook at least once a week or if you are having any problems with the device
.
NOTE: ASUS Chromebooks are no longer able to be updated.
There are 2 ways to update your Chromebook:
1. Click the bottom right corner of your Chromebook’s desktop (where the battery symbol is)
- Select the Settings icon.
- Click About Chrome OS.
- Click Check for Updates.
To apply the Update, click the arrow icon and select Restart to Update.
Click on bottom right corner, and then on gear for settings.
On the left side, click on About Chrome OS.
Click on Check for Updates.
In the Chrome browser, click on the 3 vertical dots in the upper right corner.
Go down to Help > About Google Chrome > Click Check for Updates > Apply Update and then Restart to complete the update.
Home Internet Tips
How reliable is your internet connection?
Check your internet plan to see what internet speed your plan includes. Then go to fast.com and test your actual internet speed to see if it matches your plan. The site will tell you if it is fast or slow and if you can connect several devices. If the speed is not what you expected, call your internet provider. You may need to get increased speed.
If all devices in the household are slow, your router and modem may need to be reset. If you unplug the router and then the modem, count to 20, replug the modem first, wait a few minutes and plug the router back in, it may clear any issues you are having. If the slowness is only one device, it may be the device.
You may be paying for high speed internet, but if your router is old, it may not be able to handle it. You may need better equipment. If you are not tech savvy, your provider may be able make a recommendation.
Clearing the cache and browsing histories on all devices may help as well. To find the steps go to google and search, “How to clear your cache and browsing histories from your browser”,( i.e. Chrome, FireFox, Safari).
Free Spectrum broadband and WiFi access for 60 days in home with K-12 and/or college students that don’t have an existing Spectrum service level up to 100 Mbps. Installation fees will be waived for new student households and the company said those interested should call 1-844-488-8395. In addition, families can qualify for free wifi services through COMCAST or call 1-855-846-8376.
Caring for Chromebooks and iPads
Wash your hands before using a device.
Have a designated place to use the device as well as schoolwork. Do not carry devices around, and do not use them on the floor. Be careful of cords.
All students were taught in school not to carry chromebooks around in an open state. They must close them before moving them!
iPad cleaning: TURN OFF DEVICE. Use either a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes to wipe the screen and case, making sure you have squeezed out excess moisture from the wipe. You can wipe the case as needed with a Clorox wipe.
- Chromebook cleaning: TURN OFF DEVICE. Use a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or a bleach-free disinfecting wipe that is excess moisture has been squeezed out of. Never spray a liquid onto the device. No bleach or ammonia products. Use the non-bleach disinfectant wipe or apply a small amount of 70 percent rubbing alcohol solution to the cloth and completely wipe down the entire Chromebook.
Troubleshooting Your Device
All devices need to be cleared now and then. Good practice is to turn all devices off for the night and restart in the morning.
Shut down your device all the way. For iPads, hold the button on the top right of the iPad until you see a “Slide to Power Off” toggle. Toggle it off. Wait for a few minutes for the device to totally shut down, and press the button again until you see the Apple on the screen. Let it boot up.
On a Chromebook, you should press and hold the power button down until it shuts off all the way. It may take a minute or so of holding the button down. Close the lid. When you open the lid, it will turn back on.
How can I get assistance with technology problems during distance learning?
If you run into problems with technology, please contact the technology department. They will respond to questions regarding internet connections, device replacements, and application challenges. Please use the email address ithelpdesk@region-12.org. A technology assistant will reach out and respond to your concern as quickly as possible.
What are the dos and don'ts of using a school device?
In order to make distance learning a reality, Region 12 has offered students school devices for home use. Students should only use these devices for educational purposes. Once school work is completed, shut down the device and charge it in a safe location. Be sure your child keeps drinks and food at a safe distance from the device. Proper care and storage of the device and the charger is necessary during this extended time. Please review the guidelines often with your child to ensure appropriate use. It is important that the device is returned to school in the same condition as received. Your attention to this request is greatly appreciated.