Technology Department

General Information & Frequently-Asked Questions

General Information

Beginning in the fall of 2010, all middle school students (grades 6-8) at Van Buren Middle School will be issued a school-owned net book computer for educational use while at school and home. A one-to-one computing ratio closes the “digital divide” while allowing for more individualized instruction, increased student engagement, relevance, and the strengthening of a learning community. This initiative allows our staff to realize our strategic plan goals of increased online class material and embedding technology.

Frequently-Asked Questions

Below, you will find many questions and answers. We cannot possibly anticipate every single scenario, but have learned a great deal from other schools that have successful one-to-one computing programs. For more information, visit www.vbschools.net.

 When will my child receive a school net book?

For this first year, netbooks will be distributed at 3 different parent meetings during September and October.  See our Middle School page for details.

 This seems expensive for the school district. How were you able to pay for this?

As a school, we were able to secure excellent pricing for the equipment. We are able to provide net book computers for all middle school students and staff for less than the cost of replacing one computer lab, which we do every 4-5 years. Thus, we had funds set aside for replacement computers.

 Will students keep the net book over the summer?

Like a textbook, students will return their net book before summer break. During the summer, the net books will be updated and maintained and reissued in the fall.

 How will the school keep track of this equipment?

Just like any other equipment, the net book serial number will be recorded. When distributed, student names and serial numbers will be recorded and that same net book is expected to be returned in the spring.

 During the school day, where will students keep their netbooks?

During most classes, students will have their net books with them. Otherwise, they will be stored in the student lockers.

 What happens if the net book is somehow broken or not working properly ?

The student should immediately bring the net book to the network administrator. If the issue is a software problem, the machine will be reimaged. If the student was neglectful, then the student/parents will be responsible for equipment replacement or repair and any administrative fees or shipping.

 Are there any costs to the students and parents for this program?

The first year students are involved in the one-to-one program, they will be assessed a $20.00 school fee which will purchase a protective neoprene sleeve and USB thumb-drive, which the students will keep for future years. Replacement or repair due to neglect will also result in fines or other fees.

 What if I have a question about how the net book works?

If parents have specific questions about the net book operation, they are encouraged to contact the school’s technology department.

 Will students learn how to use the net book?

We have recognized that the students possess a better working knowledge of technology than adults. However, prior to students receiving their net books, we will teach them how to use the equipment and software in addition to “digital citizenship” – how to appropriately use technology.

 Are the teachers being trained in using net books in their classes?

Yes – the middle school teachers spent the summer learning how to best use online tools and how to use the net books in their classrooms. Ongoing professional development will be important as opportunities grow.

 As a parent, how will I access my child’s work if it is on the net book?

Parents are encouraged to ask students to see their work for their classes. Our school has used the Moodle online course management software for nearly five years. Through Moodle, parents will be able to see assignments and students will have a Moodle portfolio for their work.

 Will my child have access to the internet outside of school?

The net book is wifi-capable and thus, students can access wireless internet service in their homes (provided the parents subscribe to high-speed internet service) and where public wireless internet is available (i.e. Panera, McDonald’s, etc.).

 Is the internet filtered on the net book?

When using the internet at school, the filtering will occur just as in our computer labs. However, when the net book is used to access the internet at home or other public “hot spots”, the internet will not be filtered. Despite the fact that internet service may not be filtered, students should still abide by expectations outlined in the district acceptable-use policy.

 How will the net book battery be charged?

Students will have a power cord and be expected to charge their net book every night. We will have spare power cords at school in case of emergencies.

 What are the expectations of my child in backing-up his/her work and files?

Students will be taught to back up their files daily using their USB thumb drives. This will be expected – if a net book has a software issue, the entire hard drive will be cleared.

 As a parent, what are my responsibilities for the net book?

Just like with our text books, students are expected to care for them. Charges for any damage or loss due to neglect will be billed to the student and parent. If the equipment is damaged beyond repair, students and parents will be assessed a minimum of $250.00 for replacement, administrative, and shipping costs.

 Is the net book going to replace traditional paper textbooks?

We hope that the digital versions will enhance paper copies of textbooks. In the future, electronic versions may replace paper versions.

 I’m worried that my child already spends too much time using technology. Is there going to be any human interaction during classes?

The purpose of the net book is to enhance group discussions and projects. This is a tool to make that time more productive while engaging students using what they know and thrive upon: technology.

 Do we need to purchase a bag to carry the net book?

Not necessarily. All students will use the protective sleeve in which to store their net book between classes, etc. The net book should fit in a typical book bag outside of school hours. It is expected that, when not in use, net books will always be stored in the protective sleeve.

What if a student engages in inappropriate behavior using his/her school net book   (i.e. pornography, cyber-bullying, etc.)?

We will follow our board-approved appropriate technology use agreement. In addition to any applicable code of conduct offenses, the first offense of misuse will result in up to a 9-week removal of privileges specific to the application (i.e. e-mail, Moodle, etc.). The second offense is up to an 18-week removal of privileges. Any further offenses will result in the student losing his/her net book and school network privileges for the remainder of the year. Law enforcement will be contacted in the case of serious incidents.

 Will the one-to-one program expand into the high school?

Our initial plan is to expand this program into Van Buren High School in 2011-2012. At that time, we envision deploying to freshmen and sophomores and upperclassmen the following school year.