LCSS Technology Plan - Lamar County School District · LCSS’ Technology Plan 2015-2018. LCES currently has 3 teachers implementing a pilot BYOT in conjunction with school iPads

Page 1 of 22 LCSS’ Technology Plan 2015-2018

LAMAR COUNTY SCHOOLS To work with and encourage our families and community to provide and participate in world class educational opportunities that inspire all learners to reach their potential.

Three-Year Technology Plan July 1, 2015 – June 30, 2018

Submitted to the Local BOE for approval June 2015 & July 2015

Plan approved by BOE 7.21.15

Superintendent Dr. Jute Wilson

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Norma J. Greenwood

100 Victory Lane Barnesville, Georgia

(770) 358-5891 Fax: (770) 358-5858

[email protected]

Technology Staff David Niblett, System Network Manager

Kathy Davies, System Information Manager Jarrod Fletcher, System Computer Operations and Mobile Communications Manager

Stephen Greenwood, part time Technology Support Specialist

mailto:[email protected]


VISION FOR TECHNOLOGY USE

Vision To provide resources that create a community of learners who master current and future technologies preparing for real world situations and adapting to an ever changing world. Mission To promote educational excellence consistent with the vision of the Lamar County School System by:

▪ Supporting vast, diverse, and unique tools for educational use, ▪ Ensuring equal, easy, and appropriate access, and ▪ Encouraging information gathering, sharing, communication, and professional learning.

Beliefs Technology Should: ▪ Be accessible to everyone ▪ Support life-long learning ▪ Maximize communication ▪ Broaden the horizons of every person ▪ Restructure the learning environment ▪ Provide for multiple instructional approaches ▪ Promote inquiry based learning, critical thinking and guided discovery ▪ Encourage exploration of diverse ideas ▪ Provide relevant experiences that enhance learning and capture student interest ▪ Improve time and resource management ▪ Increase access to information ▪ Give immediate feedback to students ▪ Make learning enjoyable Technology Strategic Directions ▪ Support students’ achievement of the Georgia Standards of Excellence ▪ Support teachers’ efforts to provide instruction on Georgia Standards of Excellence ▪ Maximize use of existing technologies ▪ Continue acquisition of new technologies ▪ Provide continuous professional learning for everyone ▪ Increase accessibility to technologies within the constraints of the CIPA law ▪ Determine priorities annually and emphasize collaborative planning PLANNING PROCESS ▪ The assistant superintendent met with the district’s technology department to assess current reality and

plan for the future that will have digital tools for every student. ▪ The assistant superintendent met with each director and principal (and team if possible) to share the

Technology Planning template (based on the Center for Digital Education’s rubric). ▪ Each principal met with their school-level technology team to look at the current reality and to plan for

the future. ▪ As a follow up, the assistant superintendent and the district’s technology department met with each

school to discuss findings and share dreams. Infrastructure and instruction were discussed.


LCES currently has 3 teachers implementing a pilot BYOT in conjunction with school iPads. These teachers use Edmodo to communicate outside school and for storing and organizing school products. A few teachers are experimenting with Flipped classrooms. However, they struggle with student access to technology outside the classroom. The Media Center also has ebooks for student use during school and outside of school, but also struggle with the students having technology outside the classroom. LCHS has mobile labs that are being used for instruction and assessment. We want to move toward more in depth impelementation and usage.


GAPS AND BARRIERS As a result of planning gaps and barriers were defined. In 5 years, our schools need to be ready for 1:1 access. The internet connection needs to be stronger to uphold wireless devices so that the bandwidth supports simultaneous users. Purchasing mobile devices for personalized learning is a critical need. Mobile carts with laptops would support this effort. 1:1 is personalized learning for access for all. It provides special services for students with specific needs including assistive technologies and various modes of presenting understanding. We need high powered connectivity (internal connections), and must work first to solve this problem before attempting to purchase tomorrow’s devices. If we can’t support new technologies, there is no need to spend time in training or money to purchase. Budgetary issues in purchasing new technologies as well as sustaining dated technologies such as ActivBoards and later versions of Windows CPUs is a huge gap for our district to move forward. Budgetary issues for technology staff to train faculty and staff on newest technology devices as well as being able to repair hardware and install new technology in a timely manner. We need to over come teacher hesitation or knowledge of implementing new technology methods/device (hesitation from a classroom management perspective) by creating practical professional learning using technology for higher order thinking (more than rote practice) and for using technology to meet individual needs, especially students with disabilities. After that, we must change the mindset that technology is an isolated activity used for practicing skills. Technology integration needs to be seamless with teaching and learning. We need to use video conferencing, streaming, and digital content creation to improve student exposure to skills necessary for college and career and to raise the rigor and relevance of content-based instruction. Google Apps for Education would enhance teaching and learning. The ability to use synchronous and asynchronous collaboration, data management, and free accessibility tools provide a relevant learning environment that expands the four walls of the classroom. AdvanceEd required actions associated with technology was to “develop and implement a clearly defined, systemic framework for collecting, analyzing, and reporting comprehensive data for use by instructional staff.” As teachers become more familiar with SLDS, this program can provide access to historical attendance and standardized testing data at the state level. Does the district need to consider something that could keep formative data on student benchmarks, SLOs, etc? How can instruction “be informed” as a result? How can the Teacher Resource Link (TRL) be used to provide strategies for learners? These are discussions that need to continue so that implementation and compliance are district-wide. GOALS & TASKS FOR IMPROVEMENT


I. Infrastructure (Sequenced by priority and prerequisite) Provide digital tools that maintain infrastructure to support instructional,

administrative, and professional learning goals

Internal Connections Must happen before adding more handheld

devices. *****

Hardware (Computer Operations)

Software (Operations - Software) Administrative (data collection)

Completed by the Connections for Classroom grant: New MDF switches were placed at each schools that allowed connections back to the Network Operations Center at the MS to increase from 1Gbps to 10 Gbps. New four-post racks and new UPS back up batteries were placed at each school’s MDF. The State is providing 400 Mbps of bandwidth to our district on July 1, 2015. 1. The Erate application request includes that

the district updates data cabling at PS, MS, and HS. ES updating switches and some fiber.

2. After the Erate project is approved and completed, we will still need about 20-30 new managed switches to finish replacing very old unmanaged switches at PS and MS after all the grants and Erate (if approved). Rough estimated cost about 2,000 per switch.

3. FortiDDOS appliance will be needed due to safety issues as a result of increased bandwidth the district is receiving. Rough cost of 20,000

4. Microsoft System Center with new server and setup needed to allow tech dept to push out applications such as GA Milestones and deploy images faster over the network without moving computers back to the tech office. It also allows for more

1. Need an operation budget to ensure these costs for district operations: ▪ Spare parts: cables, switches,

UPS, etc. ▪ research and development of

new products ▪ emergencies that arise

2. Eliminate issues with more

standardization of products (projectors, interactive white boards)

3. Need a district maintenance plan that

is supported in the budgeting process.

4. After Internal Controls column is completed****, District Budget specifically for adding additional CPUS, laptops and/or handhelds for student use.

1. Need an operation budget to ensure these costs for district operations:

▪ Antivirus ▪ PowerSchool costs ▪ Data backup ▪ Firewall and Content Filter ▪ LCSS website off site hosting ▪ FTE Tracker ▪ Parent calling/texting system ▪ FY 15-16: Engineer to set up

Google Apps for Education with student emails and additional apps.

▪ FY 15-16: Engineer to set up and train media specialists, Mrs. Hitson, and Mrs. Reeder for better use of Apple products

▪ Review and research adding more Net Support Licenses, Deep Freeze, Ghost

▪ EXacq Vision; I-VUE, Pay clock (Maintenance Department)

1. Keep Genesis updated 2. Keep Lunchbox updated 3. Keep SoftDocs updated 4. Test server for Powerschool 5. Each school’s master schedule

complete by first day of school –no moves after that unless absolutely necessary

6. Need a registrar for K-5 (shared position)

7. Maintain State’s required testing apps

8. Add online student registration capabilities


remote control capabilities with the district desktops.

II. Instruction & Professional Learning (Sequenced by priority and prerequisite) • Providing digital tools that engage learners to improve content mastery; improve graduation rate; & to increase student

readiness at the next level (increasing productivity & improving communication, research, inquiry-based learning and problem-solving skills; & developing digital citizens).

• Providing digital tools that engage staff members in strong and relevant professional learning to improve instructional & operational skills (increasing productivity & improving communication, research, FIP, assessment processes & developing digital citizens).

Hardware (Maintain where

we are) Software- online/license

renewals (Maintain where we are)

Hardware (Where do we want to go)

Software (Where do we want to go)

Professional Learning

1. Need an operation budget to ensure these costs for district operations: ▪ Upgrade all units to be

compatible with State’s requirements for testing

▪ Standardize printers so that have laser printers for each work room

▪ more mobile labs pre-k through 8th

2. Manage labs with seating charts and discipline follow up.

3. Transition to projectors without filters and standardize brand as much as possible

4. Go paperless as much as possible (Google Apps will be advantageous)

1. Google Apps for Education implementation & training including Google Classrooms and Google Sites. ▪ Stagger the roll out of

student emails (begin with LCHS)

2. More Gradebook training at each school

3. Study Island (LCPS) 4. Renaissance Learning STAR

(LCPS; LCES; LCHS) 5. Renaissance Learning

Accelerated Reader (LCES) 6. Renaissance Learning Math

Facts in a Flash (LCES) 7. Follett for accurate Library,

Textbook, and Asset records, ebook access & Lexile scores (all schools)

8. LDS, TRL, FIP, TLE usage to

1. The District has a vision for technology to support a culture of learning. Teachers will use 1:1 computing for personalized learning, digital content creation, assessment, and collaboration.

2. The District will focus instruction and PL on digital content, online opportunities and blended learning.

3. Every student has an account and access to tools on Google Apps for Education.

4. District-wide BYOT 5. Maintain a budget that will

support implementation and maintenance of the implementation

1. Plicker (QR Codes), Socrative, Poll Anywhere (LCHS)

2. Co-Writer (LCHS) 3. ExamView (LCHS) 4. Daily use of Web streaming,

ActiveVotes, iMovie, IPads, IPod Touches

1. Sustain training for all software

2. The professional learning community will use social networking sites, such as Edmodo, to provide personalized training on a variety of topics.

3. Faculty and staff will participate in training regarding technology to change mindsets and support implementation of tools and strategies, particularly in creating DOK 3 and DOK4 lessons

4. The schools can have a committee of innovators to work collaboratively to drive change regarding technology.


review data, plan instructional lessons, and assess effectively

9. online: KeyTrain, Odysseyware, ReadingPLUS, STAR Math, STAR Reader, Study Island, Turn-It-In, USA TestPrep (LCHS)

10. Licenses: Kuta (Infinite Pre-Alg, Alg1, Alg2, Geom, Cal), Blue Pelican, Calculus in Motion, Geometer’s Sketchpad, Algebra I, Algebra 2, Minitab (LCHS)

11. RM Educational (all schools –Pupil Services)

5. Recognize teachers who continually initiate and support progressive technology use.

II. Informational -Provide digital tools to improve communication with parents and the community

1. The District will: ▪ Use social media sites to communicate with parents and the community. ▪ Provide internet access to the community during and after school hours up to 11:00

p.m Monday –Friday. ▪ continue to use school parent calling/email /text system ▪ Provide support for more teachers to develop and maintain classroom websites. ▪ maintain up-to-date information on the district’s and schools’ websites ▪ Provide trainings or access to ParentPortal at school events (i.e. computer at events

where parents could look up grades; work with Public Library to provide a PC for parent access; Provide ParentPortal login information flyers at Public Library, DFACS, Health Dept., churches, etc.).

▪ Have computers available to parents so that they have access to school information. Please see your child’s school office for more details.


EVALUATION Ultimately, the day when we have a strong and solid infrastructure that keeps our students, our staff, and our administrative processes safe; allows for every student to have a digital tool available for learning and assessment without barriers; and provides resources and tools for teachers without limitations and barriers will be one of momentous merit. When we achieve these, our goals will be met. Additional meetings will occur to assign tasks and responsibilities based on the needs of the department.


Lamar County's Technology Estimated Cost Analysis –Needs for FY16 - 6.1.15 In

frast

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ents

Item Due Date Funding Source 2015-16

Technology Software/Annual Support Budget email, data storage, calendar, email archiver (Vault), documents, drive, forms, classrooms (Google apps for Education Suite) Free QBE; Local $ -

Calling system (SchoolMessenger -Reliance Communications) August QBE; Local $ 4,810.00

Online survey management (Survey Monkey) September Title IIA Administration $ 400.00

Antivirus (e-Set) @1500 licenses needed July QBE; Local $ 11,000.00 SIS - off site hosting; SSL Certificate (Powerschool-Pearson) @2700 licenses June QBE; Local $ 21,500.00

SIS - SSL certificate (Powerschool-Pearson) September QBE; Local $ 200.00

Data Integrity app (Certify-Certica) February 7, 2016 QBE; Local $ 2,850.00 Data backup (Barracuda) March QBE; Local $ 2,648.00

eHelpDesk -off site hosting (SchoolDude or Everything HelpDesk) July QBE; Local $ 1,345.00

Firewall & Content filter (Fortinet) June 1, 2017 QBE; Local $ - Website -off site hosting (SharpSchool) June QBE; Local $ 3,870.00

Management of migration tasks (Ghost Suite -Softmart) May need in 16-17 QBE: Local $ -

PC management (Deep Freeze - Faronics) 250 licenses needed July QBE; Local $ 4,000.00


Data collections to eliminate errors (USHA FTE Tracker) July QBE; Local $ 2,800.00 Software /Annual Support Costs Totals $ 55,423.00

Technology Hardware/Wired/Wireless Support Budget 300:annual support costs for Wireless Infrastructure - IAM, wireless controller, net-site console (Enterasys) March QBE; Local

$ 15,000.00

300: Technology purchased services (MTC support contract) QBE: Local $ 4,000.00 Annual cost core switch -located at the MS network operations center (vendor??): $1,660.04 March QBE; Local

$ 1,660.04 530: eRate bandwidth costs - 400 Mbps coming from state hopefully QBE; Local $ - 580- travel (Powerschool University; Data Collections Conference, CoSN, GAMESIS) QBE; Local $ 2,800.00 810: Registration (Powerschool University $2,200); Data Collections Conference, CoSN, GAMESIS) QBE; Local

$ 3,500.00 616: Technology Repair Parts & Research [Included but not limited to printers, cables, cpus, monitors, mice, switches, bulbs; mother boards, NICS, DVD drives, wiring, installation]; server for Powerschool

QBE/Local Technology

$ 19,000.00

Hardware/Wired/Wireless Support Sub-Total

$ 45,960.04

Technology Operations Total $101,383.04 Maintenance /Instructional

Tool to maintain Title I inventory and assist in aligning novels and other literature to students' needs - Off site hosting (Follett/Destiny)

October 1-September 30 Fund 400

$ 13,000

Maintenance/Instructional Total $ 13,000.00


Instructional & Assessment Software Tools

LCPS for math & ELA @200 licenses -(Study Island-Edmentum) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 3,000.00

LCES for math & ELA (Study Island-Edmentum ) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ -

LCPS for science, ELA, & math (Education City-Edmentum) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 1,267.00

K-2 for 215 licenses $4,279 +$500(Renaissance Learning) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 4,779.00

LCES Accelerated Reader (Renaissance Learning) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 4,747.00

LCES Math Facts in a Flash (Renaissance Learning) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 3,307.00

3rd-5th for 600 licenses $5,700 +$500 (Renaissance Learning) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 6,200.00

9th-12th for 100 licenses $1300 +$500 (Renaissance Learning) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 1,800.00

6th -8th for $35 per student -e.g. w/200 students (ALEKS) October 1 -September 30 LCMS Fund 400? $ 7,000.00

K-2 (BrainPop) October 1 -September 30 Fund 400? $ 1,800.00

Credit recovery (OdysseyWare: 6th -12th) $800 a student e.g. w/35 ports TBD $ 28,000.00

Instructional & Assessment Tools Total $ 61,900.00


Technology Historical Expenditures FY12 to FY15 To Date 5.20.15

FACILITY CENTRAL OFFICE 8010

FUNCTION SUPPORT SERVICES 2800

PROGRAM OTHER 9990

OBJECT OBJECT DESCRIPTION

FY 2012 Budget FY 2012 Exp FY 2013

Budget FY 2013

Exp FY 2014 Budget FY 2014 Exp FY 2015

Budget FY 2015

Exp

530-2 Communication $ - $ 3,150 $ 4,860 $ 3,724 $ 4,860 $ 3,506 $ 4,860

$ 1,943

580-2 Travel $ - $ 907 $ - $ 2,740 $ 500 $ 1,808 $ 1,600

$ 2,080

610-2 Supplies $ - $ - $ - $ 116 $ - $ 806 $ -

$ 213

612-2 Software $ 25,000 $ 29,033 $ 40,000 $ 40,219 $ 48,241 $ 53,170 $ 50,927

$ 51,891

615-2 Expend. Equip $ - $ 780 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -

616-2 Expend Computer

Equip $ 25,000 $ 12,237 $ 9,337 $ 16,655 $ 9,000 $ 20,236 $ 9,000 $ 24,528

(per unit < 5,000)

Emergency Rack Mount

Server

Emergency district server

810-2 Registrations/Fees $ - $ 2,100 $ 2,500 $ 410 $ 2,000 $ 2,670

$ 3,000 $ 2,544

Total $ 50,000 $ 48,206 $ 56,697 $ 63,863 $ 64,601 $ 82,196

$ 69,387 $ 83,199






Guidelines for Use of Social Media ..................................................................................

Lamar County Schools Guidelines for Use of Social Media

Includes staff/student engagement on blogs, on microblogs, in online communities, on video/photo sharing sites, in forums and discussion boards, or on any other Internet-based or mobile communication tool for

sharing and discussing information (e.g. Edmodo, Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, YouTube) Everyday new technologies are created and new channels and clouds are opened for our use on desktops, laptops, tablets, and Smartphones for us to share knowledge, express our creativity and connect with others who share our interests. While these are exciting, expressive, progressive, and ever changing, we must be aware of possible inappropriate use and how our use can impede the instructional process or assessment policies. The following "best practice" guidelines are provided to help you effectively use these forums, protect your personal and professional reputation and follow national, state and/or district laws, rules and policies. It is not a requirement to use these emerging media and mandating their use is discouraged. Everything you need to successfully perform your duties is provided for you by Lamar County Public Schools (Powerschool -our Student Information System, Edmodo – a secure learning network for teachers and students, email, etc.). The Internet and social media sites change rapidly. These guidelines are intended to provide direction if you choose to use social media sites for either personal or professional reasons. It is important to remember to conduct yourself in an appropriate manner to avoid any unintended situations that could adversely affect your professional standing. These guidelines are not intended to restrict your participation but to provide some protection if you choose to engage in online activities.

Professional Use It is vital that when participating in social media in a professional capacity that you are honest about who you are, that you are thoughtful before you post, and that you respect the purpose of the community in which you are posting. You must realize the following:

• Any information shared via social media sites regarding the business of the district is considered public record regardless of the ownership of the equipment used to post. You should notify parents of the intent to use social media to communicate with students and the intended purpose of such communications. All ethical expectations for appropriate employee/student relationships must be followed. o ALL electronic communication between staff, students, and parents should be transparent. As a public

school district, we are expected to maintain openness, visibility, and accountability with regard to all communication.

o ALL electronic communication between staff, students and parents are a matter of public record and/or may be accessible by others.

o ALL electronic communication from staff to student or parent should be written as a professional representing Lamar County Schools. This includes word choices, tone, grammar and subject matter that model the standards and integrity of a district professional. Always choose words that are courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike in manner. Please thoroughly proof the content before you post. Citizens expect that education employees set a good example when they write and speak in public. Content never disappears entirely once it is posted, so it’s important you correct any errors as soon as possible. Since transparency is important, admit your mistake, apologize if necessary, correct it and move on.

For school/district related use of such resources, remember:

• You must get approval from your supervisor before engaging. • If you identify yourself as a district employee, PSC Ethics Guidelines govern your behavior(s).


o You may still be identified with the district, and your behavior is governed by the Ethics Guidelines of

the Georgia Professional Standards Commission even if you choose NOT to identify yourself with the district.

• Never create an alias and never be anonymous. Misidentifying yourself or providing false information may result in disciplinary action.

• Your @lamar.k12.ga.us address attached to your name and/or E-mail implies that you are acting on behalf of the district and are therefore required to conduct yourself as a professional.

• Accessing inappropriate Web sites during work hours or using your district E-mail or resources inappropriately may result in disciplinary action (whether accessing from desktop, laptop, tablet or Smartphone).

• Your actions are public and you will be held fully responsible when using a district E-mail address and/or equipment to participate in any social media or professional social media activity (such as Edmodo, and others),

• Confidential or proprietary information about the district, its students, alumni or employees may not be posted. Use good ethical judgment and follow federal, state and/or district rules, guidelines and policies.

• Social media is NOT private. Internet search engines can find information years after it was originally posted. Comments can be forwarded or copied and archival systems save information even if the material is deleted.

• Think before you post. If you feel angry or passionate about a subject, it may not be the time to share your thoughts in a post – you should delay posting until you are calm and clear-headed.

• Remember that you are writing for publication, even if it’s just for a social media site. Refrain from making unsubstantiated statements such as “research shows” unless you also provide full citations of the research.

• Refrain from any type of behavior that can be deemed bullying. The bullying definition has been revised to include “acts of bullying that involve electronic communication."

Personal Use The inappropriate personal use of social media places your professional career at risk. As an employee of the district, you are subject to the PSC Code of Conduct. Below are suggested guidelines to follow when using social media for personal use:

• If you participate in social media for personal use and identify yourself as an employee of the district, you must state that you are expressing your own opinion, not that of the district. o If you identify yourself as a district employee, remember, your actions will reflect not only on you but on

the district as well. o If you identify yourself as a district employee, readers will associate you with the district, even with the

disclaimer that your views are your own. • Never pretend to be someone else and post information about the district. Tracking tools enable supposedly

anonymous posts to be traced back to their authors. • Personal use of the district’s official seal or individual school logos, athletic logos, mascots or any other such

graphic representations or images is permitted only at the discretion of the district. • If you post information or comments that are not related to the district, your activities may result in

professional and/or personal repercussions. Such actions include, but are not limited to: o Posting of photographs, regardless of the content, which could be considered offensive to other parties

and be a violation of federal, state and/or district laws, guidelines and policies; o Posting of information considered to be proprietary, copyrighted, defamatory, libelous or obscene (as

defined by the courts). • You do not have control of what others may post on social media sites; therefore, be aware that your

conduct in your private life may affect your professional life. o Be vigilant about what others post about you or on your page and, if necessary, take steps to remove

comments that pose a risk to you or the district.


o Do not fall prey to cyberbaiting. Think before you post. If you feel angry or passionate about a

subject, it may not be the time to share your thoughts in a post – you should delay posting until you are calm and clear-headed.

• Communicating with students on any public social media site may be viewed as inappropriate. All ethical expectations for appropriate employee/student relationships must be followed. This includes becoming “friends” or allowing students to access your personal page to communicate.

• Employees should refrain from creating “personal” web pages, blogs, or social media sites permitting social interaction with current students enrolled in the district.

• Employees should refrain from providing their personal E-mail address to students. Standards for System Software/Hardware and Purchases ...........................................................................

At Lamar County Schools, use of any and all modern technologies and computer systems are embraced to enhance classroom instruction and improve student achievement. The following is the standard for hardware purchases and software.

• Use your system technology staff to get valuable advice regarding current technologies and their costs. The staff stays up-to-date on current trends and more importantly, on problems to avoid with new technology. Plan with the staff to ensure standardization of technology-related purchases.

• All purchase requisitions for technology-related items of $200 or more must go to the Technology Staff first for approval.

• The Technology Department will validate the quote and compatibly of the item(s) of each purchase. Hardware standards as of June 2015 Minimum Standard System – Units giving trouble and are below this standard will probably be removed from the field. MT-1 x Core i5 4590/ 3.3 GHZ, 8 Gb RAM, DVD-Writer drive, Speakers, 22 Inch SVGA LCD Screen,1 TB Hard Disk Drive, Logitech Laser Mouse, Mouse Pad, and Surge Protector/Multiple Outlet. Desired Standard System - Desired Dell Optiplex 3020, ByteSpeed H81M-C or Similar Software standards MicroSoft Windows 7 PRO MicroSoft Office 2013 Professional Plus Internet Explorer 11 Mozilla Firefox Adobe Acrobat Reader DC Flash Player Java version 8 Eset Antivirus


Failure to adhere to the above requirements usually results in the following bad habits:

1. Paying too much for the technology that is not designed for commercial use and has no warranty 2. Getting the wrong or out-of-date technology. 3. Getting technology inconsistent with system network configurations or system direction. 4. Getting technology more difficult to service and support by local staff. 5. Dependency on outside vendors for service and support of the new item. 6. Getting less quality and frequent trouble with hardware and software.

Staff members as designated by the supervisor may directly purchase technology-related items for their programs using accepted purchase methods for that program and for Lamar County Schools. Those methods dictate that you will complete a purchase request, get the technology staff permission, get the principal or building supervisor’s permission, order the materials through the school, complete the paperwork for invoices to be paid by the school, and work with the technology staff for installation and configuration. Technology Support Issues - Since technology is volatile and changing, we realize that many technology items are not economically viable to be supported after a certain life span. Unfortunately, this problem is getting worse as technology and the world further develops. This often creates a situation where it is much better to remove and discontinue certain technology items after failure rather than spend time and resources attempting to fix it. This may leave the program without means to continue at that technology level, if no plans were made to budget for a replacement. Another issue is that the solving of technology problems takes time. Odd technologies purchased without approval or recommendation of Technology Staff will take extra time to resolve the issue because of unfamiliarity. Technology repair issues created by tampering or careless changing of the computer system make it hard to diagnose and repair. Simple technology issues that should fall within the realm of standard everyday use and the level of skills and abilities that the staff member should already possess are very unlikely to receive attention until all other matters have been taken care of first. Technology issues that affect the whole student body, such as the library system, lunchroom POS, administrative systems, and the school networks or WAN are more likely to receive attention first. Technology will not support TV Distribution, devices that bypass the firewall (e.g. Kindles); XP OS and in the near future VISTA OS.


Laptop check out procedures .................................................................................................... EMPLOYEE IFBG-E.4 LAPTOP CHECK FORM Contract Agreement for Lamar County Schools This agreement should be filed in the school’s media center. Laptop Name____________________________________________________ Laptop Number __________________________________________________ Date checked out______________________________ to be returned by ______________________ (date) My home insurance policy and number are ____________________________________________ I understand that if I do not supply Lamar County with my home insurance information I will be held accountable for the cost of the laptop if not returned. Employee Name (Please Print) _____________________________________________________________ Signature _____________________________________________Date _________________


Technology Replacement Plan ..................................................................................................

The technology department is constantly pursuing quotes and advising schools on computer systems that need replacing due to age. [The department will advise schools in purchasing through meetings, quotes on the Intranet, etc.] Disposal of equipment Once the computer equipment has been removed from the field, steps will be taken to either keep using the equipment or dispose of it. Technology equipment that does not work (e.g. CPUs, monitors, keyboards, mice, external drives, printers, and projectors, etc.) will be deleted from the inventory and disposed of legally following the BOE’s Disposal Policy. Computer equipment that schools want to keep and use as part of the instructional program must receive approval from the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning through the HelpDesk ticket system. The technology department will not support the maintenance or upgrading of obsolete computers that schools retain. Obsolete computers may not access the network (network cables, switches, etc.). The school maintains these items on a school level inventory. When the school decides the computer equipment is no longer needed, a HelpDesk ticket must be completed requesting removal. The technology department will delete items off the hard drive and the equipment will be disposed of through the BOE’s Disposal Policy. The item must be removed from the school inventory.

Documents

LCSS Technology Plan - Lamar County School District · LCSS’ Technology Plan 2015-2018. LCES currently has 3 teachers implementing a pilot BYOT in conjunction with school iPads