Technology At Washington

The room next the the Media Center is a PC lab of 30 networked Dell computers and a laser printer.  Since the Media Center and the lab have moved to the first floor and we have moved from the Macintosh platform to the Windows XP system.

In addition, this lab is used for students to take Accelerated Reading tests on books they have read, as well as the Star Reading placement test used to indicate their reading level.  Accelerated Math is a part of the math curriculum in fourth and fifth grades, and the students will take their Star Math placement test in this lab.  The new reading program that will begin Fall 2007 will also have a computer component that will be used in the lab.

Starting in the Fall of 2007, students are using this lab for Read Naturally, FastForward, FastTMath, and Keyboarding.  Students usually use this lab to research and write word-processed reports.  Each computer has Internet access, and the District does use a filter to lessen the chances of accessing inappropriate sites.

There is also a mini-lab on the second floor with 12 Windows XP computers.  This will also be used for Read Naturally and FastForward as well as for research and word processing.

Third grade students have the use of AlphaSmart keyboards.  These light-weight, portable keyboards are able to save several pages of word processing that the students input which can then be transferred to a computer for further revision and printing. 

Each teacher has the use of a Dell computer.  They can access the Internet, connect to the District's email system, input attendance and grades, order materials from our AEA for instructional use, and use word processing, data bases, and spreadsheets to assist in their instruction.  Some classrooms have older Macintosh computers for student use with reading and math programs.

Our auditorium was remodeled in the Spring of 2005.  We now have a projector that can display video tapes, dvd programs, computer programs (a Dell computer is connected to the system), and cable television on a very large screen.

We also have four multi-media carts which have a computer, scanner, speakers, and a projector which can be rolled into a classroom for use to display images on a wall screen.

We have "clickers" where information can be input so students can answer questions with the "click of a button."  This will be a great way to do some immediate and quick assessment of student learning.

Below is the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement that all students who use Internet must sign.

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT

Davenport Community School District Computer Systems – Terms and Conditions

Technology is a vital part of the school district curriculum and appropriate and equitable use of computer systems and the Internet shall allow employees and students to access resources unavailable through traditional means. Internet access is coordinated through the Davenport Community Schools wide area network and the Mississippi Bend AEA 9 access to the Internet. To ensure the smooth operation of the network, end users must adhere to established guidelines regarding proper conduct and efficient, acceptable, ethical and legal usage. Employees and students shall be instructed on the appropriate use of the Internet prior to being allowed access through school facilities. Employees and students shall sign a form annually acknowledging they have read and understand the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement.

Acceptable Use: The use of district computer systems and the Internet – including the use of email, chat, or instant messaging – must be in support of education and research and consistent with the DCSD Strategic Plan, educational objectives, and the terms and conditions of this agreement. Use of other organizations’ networks or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for those networks. Transmissions that violate any district, state, or U.S. regulations are prohibited. These transmissions include, but are not limited to copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material or material protected by trade secret. Use for commercial activities or political lobbying is prohibited.

Privilege: The use of district computer systems and the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in cancellation of that privilege and possible additional actions.

Netiquette: (Network Etiquette) – You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

Language - Do not be abusive in your messages to others. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any inappropriate language.

Privacy - Note: Electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. Illegal activities are forbidden. This includes, but is not limited to, threats, harassment, stalking and fraud.

Disruption - Use of the network in such a way that you would disrupt or limit the use of the network by other users is prohibited. This includes distribution of jokes; lists, chain mail and other unauthorized uses of the system. Remain on the system long enough to get needed information, then exit the system.

Private Property: Assume that all communications and information accessible via the network are private property. Credit all sources and respect all copyright laws.

No Warranties. The Davenport Community School District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the information or services provided through the network. The District will not be responsible for any damages. This could include loss of data or service interruptions. While the District maintains an Internet Filter to restrict access to inappropriate sites – including those with visual depictions that include obscenity, pornography, or are harmful to minors – no filter system is perfect. Ultimately, it is the users responsibility to comply with the terms and conditions of this agreement.

Security. Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. Do not use another individual’s account without written permission from that individual. Attempts to access the network as anyone other than your assigned Userid may result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the district’s computer resources.

Vandalism. Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy hardware, software, or data of another user, or any of the above listed agencies or other networks. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or breaching security measures.

Safety. Do not reveal your personal (home) address or phone number or those of other students or colleagues.

References. Children’s Internet Protection Act, 47 U.S.C. §254(h). Iowa Code § 279.8(1995). Board Policy 605.06 Internet: Appropriate Use (Revised 5/28/02; Board Policies 101.01 Board-Community Relations; 101.02 Information Dissemination; 103.02 Use of District Communications Systems; 504.6 Parent and Student Rights and Responsibilities; 501.13 Attendance Records; 604.11 Professional and Curriculum Library; 605.13 Technology and Instructional Materials

 

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT

Student Certification Form

(Student Name - printed)

 

(Student Signature) (Date)

 

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