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Intermediate School Technology

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Mission & Vision

One mission of education is to prepare students for future careers that include the use of technology. In an age of rapid technological change, teaching our students information and technology literacy skills is essential. At the Intermediate School, teachers use educational iPad and Chromebook apps to enhance classroom curriculum to allow students to develop Future Ready Skills such as problem solving, creative thinking, and the ability to collaborate. Fifth grade science students also use robots to problem solve.

Every Intermediate School student will be assigned a Chromebook to use at school and home, as part of their educational experience. Lessons on care and use of devices and on digital citizenship are taught in library classes, technology classes, and infused in classroom curriculum.

We believe that robust and reliable access to digital learning devices for all students empowers them to engage in their learning through inquiry, collaboration, access to online resources reflecting multiple viewpoints, and the creation and appropriate sharing of their own ideas and products. Robust, equitable, and reliable access is a cornerstone of preparing students for their future in college and/or in a career.

The Waunakee Community School District digital learning initiative builds on increasing levels of access and responsibility from elementary school through high school. 

Student Safety

Waunakee Schools abide by the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act and we teach and promote digital citizenship and responsibility. Internet filters are in place to block inappropriate and harmful sites. School staff also have access to a tool that allows the staff member to control what websites are available, view Internet activity, and lockdown devices. All technology use is expected to abide by the district's Acceptable Use Policy (see policy 365 here).

School Google Account

Students will have access to a Google Workspace account. They will be introduced to the safe and appropriate use of Google Apps, which is to be used for educational purposes only. At this age level, students work collaboratively in Google. It is important that students treat shared documents with care and respect. Students will save most of their work to their Google Drive, which is accessible from almost any device with an Internet connection.

School Device 

Your child's school assigned device is to be used for school purposes only. Each student should properly move their Chromebook around the school and to and from school. Everyday, it is essential that each student's device is charged enough for learning. Students should keep food and drink away from Chromebooks at all times and should be used only in appropriate places. Please keep labels on the Chromebooks in good condition. Make sure to report any problems or damage to their teacher and the building technology assistant.

School Device Repair, Loss and Theft

As with all supplies provided to students, normal wear and tear is expected. When damages occur or the technology supplies are missing, charges will be assessed for repair or replacement. All repairs must be done by school personnel.

Misuse

If students don't follow proper care (charging and carrying it correctly) or break digital citizenship expectations, consequences will be applied on a case-by-case basis. Interfering with another student's device, taking pictures, audio and video, browsing Youtube, playing games and cyberbullying are all examples of misuse. Technology issues are documented where teachers and principals can read of these incidents. Students will have an opportunity to review technology acceptable use with the Ed Tech Specialist, Tech Assistant or Librarian. There may be a temporary loss of technology privileges, communication with parent/s and/or a meeting with a principal.

Family Role

Adults at home play the biggest role in teaching children to use technology responsibly. Talk to them about how you expect them to use their devices and how to access the Internet safely and responsibly. Remind them that devices are learning tools and not to be used as a distraction or a toy. Throughout the year, ask them about how they are using devices at school. Family cooperation with supporting our students is appreciated.

Additional Resources for Families

Department of Public Instruction's Parent Page

Federal Trade Commission's "Kids Online" Page

American Academy of Pediatrics "Family Media Use Plan" Page