Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy Bring Your Own Device Program Equipping Learners for Christian Leadership in the 21st Century
Summer 2016 At Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, we continually strive to provide cutting edge, innovative instruction in a Christcentered learning environment that integrates the latest in technology. Our Bring Your Own Device program (BYOD) allows students to bring their own electronic devices to their academic classes. While BYOD has proven essential for learning from 7th grade through the Upper School years, we are excited to see students in our Upper Elementary grades beginning to bring their own school-approved devices as well, building technology fluency for academics even before moving into the Upper School program. Device usage at CHCA is not simply a matter of technology driving instruction, nor is it about having new tools to carry on the same old routine. Rather, our strong academic content, empowered by technology, can now drive instruction and assessment in ways that were impossible a few short years ago. As students bring devices to school, we seek to help them make connections with the content they are learning and to help them use these devices in relating to and communicating with one another in appropriate and Christ-honoring ways. BYOD also helps our teachers expand their earlier pioneering use of blended learning approaches and online formative assessments. Far from moving the responsibility for instruction over to a computer screen, our use of digital resources paves the way for deeper application of content inside the classroom, elevating the role of the teacher as facilitator and guide. This means face-to-face interaction in the classroom is more important than ever, all while extending the learning outside CHCA’s walls through digital means. We want our students to be college ready and successful 21st century citizens and to help them recognize the redemptive possibilities for technology as we work for Kingdom purpose to resolve the issues facing this age. In that spirit, we hope that this brochure is a helpful guide for you. The information contained herein ranges from helpful tips for laptop shopping to school policies and guidelines, all intended to help you navigate the landscape of electronic device usage in your child’s classes. In this we must offer a word of deepest gratitude to CHCA’s long-time Director of Academics, Karen Smeltzer for the work you will find here. In so many ways, her tireless efforts, her passion for student learning over many years, and in fact her authoring and compiling of much that is in this brochure, all leaves us with a solid foundation for the work of 21st Century learning we now pursue as a school. And now we eagerly look ahead to future possibilities for our students, even as we work to prepare them with the best available tools and to empower them to take hold of all that God has for them as they prepare to serve Him by engaging the larger world after their formative period at CHCA. Blessings, Kris Gilbert, Director, 21st Century Learning and Innovation
Table of Contents Purpose and Program Description
1
BYOD Use Guidelines
3
CHCA device specifications recommendations
4
CHCA Technology Responsible Use Policy
5
Microsoft Office 365
10
CHCA Canvas
11
CHCA Wireless
11
Internet Safety Programming
11
Atomic Learning
12
Frequently Asked Questions
13
Resource Links
16
Specification “Shopping List” for Device Purchases
17
Prepared by Karen Smeltzer and Kris Gilbert
Purpose and Program Description Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (“CHCA”) provides students with a learning environment that honors God and prepares Christian Leaders for the 21st Century. Both in its technology and information literacy curricula and in academic content curricula, CHCA establishes student learning goals (aided by cutting edge technology) that include collaborative social interaction, communication, gathering resources and information, creativity, problem-solving and decision-making. What is CHCA’s approach to computer use in the classroom? CHCA’s approach to device usage at each grade level may be described generally as follows: Early Childhood and K-3 Electronic device usage is carefully limited and based on the age and skillsdevelopment needs of our young students. At these early grades, iPads are the device of choice for specific classroom activities. Students by grade 3 are introduced to school laptops, as well as desktops in computer class.
Upper Elementary, Grades 4-6 Students in grades 4-6 begin using laptops on a regular basis and transition into increased responsibility and independence. Devices in Upper Elementary are schoolprovided, though students may have the option to purchase and bring a schoolapproved device from home. Grade 4: Each student has access to a laptop provided by the school that stays in the classroom. Grade 5: Students have access to schoolprovided laptops and are carefully guided by teachers as they are introduced to school email and online resources. During the year, students may be given the opportunity to carry a laptop from class-to-class.
Upper School, Grades 7-9 Student laptop usage transitions from school-provided to home-provided. Students are highly encouraged to bring a school-selected device for purchase, but at least need a schoolcompatible device approved for CHCA. *See the “Day Loaner Program” description in this brochure for information on day use computers at grades 7-8.
Upper School, Grades 10-12 Students are responsible for having a laptop for school. Device usage at these grades transitions from school-selected, student-purchased into more choices for student-purchased laptops. Factors including potential college choices and compatibility with specific course requirements should weigh heavily in the laptop purchase decision.
Grade 6: Students are each issued a schoolprovided laptop to carry and use throughout the school day.
CHCA students are trained to operate as digital citizens exercising responsible and ethical use of technology for academic and personal purposes. Use of technology will extend the student’s sphere of influence in the increasingly global workplace that they are preparing to enter. Teachers are integrating those dispositions into units of study across the content areas of all subjects taught at CHCA. These digital fluencies help better equip students to fully realize the unique and wonderful purpose that God created them to fulfill after graduation. In grades 7 – 12, CHCA allows students to bring and use their own technology devices at specified times during the school day. Use of these devices is meant to enhance their learning in the classroom; however, student owned devices will be permitted for use in classrooms only by prior permission of individual teachers and in those teachers’ discretion.
Teachers are trained in cloud computing using Microsoft Office 365, and materials for teaching students and training teachers in internet safety. Using CHCA’s wireless network, the Canvas learning management system, and cloud computing accounts for students to access files, email, and productivity tools easily, CHCA provides a learning environment for students both inside and outside the classroom. College students and those in today’s workforce increasingly use technology to perform their obligations more efficiently and spend their leisure time more productively. Our students’ use of this enhanced learning environment will better prepare them in these future roles.
BYOD Use Guidelines Guidelines: • Students who bring their own device for educational use must use CHCA’s network, which offers a filtered Internet experience. Any personally owned device accessing unfiltered Internet while the device is on school grounds violates this Policy and will be subject to confiscation. • CHCA will only allow student to bring their personal devices on its school grounds and access the CHCA network if they comply with the Technology Responsible Use Policy and these BYOD guidelines. Further, students participating in BYOD must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct, Student Handbook, and all Board policies, particularly the Technology Responsible Use Policy and BYOD Guidelines for student-owned devices. • Possession of pornographic images or video on any electronic device is prohibited. • CHCA teachers can allow and regulate the use of personal devices in their classrooms, on the campus, and at school events. • Approved devices must be in silent mode while riding school buses and on school campuses, unless otherwise allowed by a teacher. • Devices may not be used to cheat on assignments or tests, or for non-instructional purposes such as making personal phone calls or text/instant messaging. • Students may not use devices to record, transmit or post-photographic images or video of a person or persons on campus or during school activities and/or hours. • Guest access to the CHCA network does not permit printing. Students wishing to print content must access their account from a school-owned device where printers are then accessible. Printing is with teacher permission and payment may be required for copies printed. • Devices may only be used to access files on computer or Internet sites relevant to the classroom curriculum. Games are not permitted, unless otherwise allowed by a teacher. • Students should NEVER give out personal information (name, address, social security number, password, telephone number, photographs, and credit card number) online. • CHCA IT will not support or fix any personal device. • Any troubleshooting of a student device by school personnel will be done strictly as a courtesy to the student, in the student’s presence, and no results are guaranteed. • As further noted in the Technology Responsible Use Policy, any activity on school owned and student owned devices and on the CHCA network can be monitored or searched by school personnel, whether remotely via the school network or manually on individual devices. • Any software or application loaded on a personal device cannot access T.V. or sites not involving educational content. The teacher always retains the discretion to determine what constitutes appropriate use. • CHCA is not responsible for the conduct or operation of third party providers (e.g., Google Apps for Education, typing.com, etc.). Any and all third party providers are responsible for safeguarding student data and pursuant to federal law parental consent may be required between the student’s parent or guardian and such third party.
BYOD device specifications recommendations CHCA encourages students and parents to use the following information to help guide them in equipping their students at the CHCA North Campus. The following are recommendations only. • If you will be purchasing a new laptop device (Mac or PC) for your student, you will very likely have a compatible system for the program based on current industry minimum computer specs. • If you plan to use an existing laptop device for your student, you may have a compatible system if the laptop was purchased within the last 3 years. Regardless, please consider the following recommended specifications: dual core processor (2.0 GHz or more)
4-8 GB memory or more
200 GB hard drive (or more)
12-13” screen or larger
longest battery life possible
Recommended PC operating system: Windows 8.1 or later
Recommended Apple operating system: El Capitan (iOS 10.11.2) or Later
Required software: Microsoft Office
Other Mobile Devices For the CHCA BYOD program, a standard laptop (PC or Mac) is required. Based on our students’ experiences with classroom devices, we have learned that a standard, conventional laptop is the only type of device that is fully functional and compatible with the academic program. There are many other life circumstances where a mobile device is an appropriate tool, but they have certain limitations over a standard laptop running the full version of Windows or Apple Operating Systems. The program endeavors to enhance the learning environment through the Canvas learning management system, Office 365 tools, and access to the internet generally. The ability to install and run Microsoft Office, as well as having a full web browser that can support Flash, Shockwave, and Java are needed on any BYOD device. Mobile browsers do not support some or all of the web technologies utilized by the subscription websites CHCA uses for digital instruction. PC or Mac laptops are appropriate tools, but must run the full version of a Windows or Apple Operating System. In grades 7 and 8, a day loaner program is available for students, per device availability. Should a student in grades 7 or 8 not have a laptop to use, CHCA may provide a day loaner during the school day, pending device availability. Upon arriving at school the student will checkout the school laptop and check it back in at the end of the school day. Students can have the laptop with them while they are in the school building. No day loaners will be checked out overnight. The Technology Responsible Use Policy and BYOD guidelines govern day loaner laptop use. What devices should NOT be purchased for school? Based on feedback from our students and teachers, here are some common devices to avoid when purchasing: Ø Chromebooks: Since CHCA is a Microsoft Office 365 school, Google Chromebooks do not function well at all in classrooms at CHCA. Ø Consumer-grade tablets: Tablets (including iPads, Galaxy tablets, and the older Surface RT’s) do not have the full functionality students need to operate in all of their classes. Ø Devices that are more than 3-years old: We have seen students who bring the old family machine become routinely frustrated and have difficulty keeping up in class. Ø Smartphones: While Upper School students are permitted to bring their mobile phones to school, we have seen that they have very limited classroom functionality. At Upper School, phones are used in class only with permission and specific instructions from the teacher.
CHCA Technology Responsible Use Policy FOR THOSE USING CHCA’S COMPUTER NETWORK AND ACCESSING INTERNET THROUGH THE SCHOOL Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (“CHCA”) offers access to its students, faculty, staff, administrators or anyone else authorized to use the CHCA resources to interconnected computer systems within CHCA and to the Internet, which provides both various means of accessing significant educational materials and opportunities and is an excellent research tool for lifelong learning. CHCA has established parameters for this use in the spirit of the Christian mission and CHCA’s core values. So that CHCA can continue to make its computer network and Internet access available, all students, faculty, staff, administrators or anyone else authorized to use the CHCA resources, must take responsibility for appropriate and lawful use of this access. In particular, students must understand that one student’s misuse of the network and Internet access may jeopardize all other students’ ability to enjoy such access. While CHCA’s teachers and other Staff will make reasonable efforts to supervise student use of network and Internet access, student cooperation is critical in exercising and promoting responsible use of this access. Below is CHCA’s Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy (“Policy”) and the Data Acquisition Site that provides Internet access to CHCA. Upon the parents’/legal guardians’ reviewing and agreeing to this Policy as part of executing the CHCA Enrollment Contract, each student is bound by the Policy and will be given the opportunity to enjoy Internet access at School. CHCA cannot provide access to any student who, if 18 or older, fails to sign and submit the Policy to CHCA as part of executing the CHCA Enrollment Contract. Listed below are the provisions of your agreement regarding computer network and Internet use. Please contact Kris Gilbert, the Director of 21st Century Learning, and/or the appropriate Division Administrator (principal, assistant principal) with any questions about these provisions. If any user violates this Policy, the student will be subject to disciplinary action, including denial of access to the network and/or school devices, or other consequences as deemed appropriate by the school administration.
I. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY By signing your CHCA Enrollment Contract, you have agreed not only to follow the rules in this Policy, but are agreeing to report any misuse of the network to the Director of 21st Century Learning and/or the appropriate Division Administrator (principal, assistant principal). Misuse means any violations of this Policy or any other use that is not included in the Policy, but can harm others or their property. II. TERMS OF THE PERMITTED USE Students who are enrolled are permitted to have computer network and Internet access while they are actively taking courses only. III. ACCEPTABLE USES Educational Purposes Only. CHCA provides equipment and access to its computer networks and the Internet for educational purposes. If you have any doubt about whether a contemplated activity is educational, you may consult with the Director of 21st Century Learning and/or the appropriate division administration to help you decide if a use is appropriate.
IV. UNACCEPTABLE USES A. Some unacceptable uses that violate this Policy are:
1. Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law. Don’t transmit offensive or harassing messages; offer for sale or use any substance, the possession or use of which is prohibited by CHCA’s Student Discipline Policy; view, transmit or download pornographic materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law; intrude into the networks or computers of others; and download or transmit confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials. Even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, you should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them. 2. Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. For example, don’t engage in defamation (harming another's reputation by lies); employ another’s password or some other user identifier that misleads message recipients into believing that someone other than you is communicating or otherwise using their access to the network or the Internet; upload a worm, virus, “trojan horse,” “time bomb” or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participate in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems. 3. Uses that jeopardize the security of student access and of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. For example, don’t disclose or share your password with others; don’t impersonate another user. 4. Unauthorized commercial transactions. Except when conducting school-related activities (i.e. updating lunch cards, purchasing items from Spirit Shop or Leaning Eagle, etc.), you should not give others private information about you or others, including credit card numbers and social security numbers. Unless authorized by faculty for a class activity or other educational purpose, students and others may not use the computer network or devices for online gaming or gambling. If you have any questions regarding what constitutes an unauthorized commercial transaction under the Policy, please contact the Director of 21st Century Learning and/or the appropriate Division Administrator (principal, assistant principal). 5. Uses which violate school fraternization policies or uses which promote undue familiarity between those in a faculty/student or superior/subordinate relationship. For example, students who are currently taking classes with faculty becoming online “friends” with such faculty on a social networking site. 6. Use of any personal devices on campus which violate any policy (for example, sexting using a personal cell phone). 7. Social Media. Student use of social media during school hours or using school computer networks, internet, or devices must be authorized by a teacher for an approved educational purpose. Any social media activity of a student while using school computer networks, Internet, or devices are subject to the Policy. Any social media activity that is directed at the CHCA community (including administration, teachers, and students) and violates this CHCA Policy shall result in discipline. 8. Sexting. In keeping with the school's responsibility to provide a safe learning environment for all students, the Board has established the following policy regarding the issue of "sexting." Sexting is the act of sending sexually explicit or suggestive messages, photos, audio, or images via a cell phone, computer, or other digital device. Students engaged in such activities are subject to state laws and school discipline. The school considers sending, sharing, or possessing photos, messages, audio, images, or e-mails that contain sexually explicit or suggestive content, during school hours or in association with any school activity, or at any time where the subject matter involves any student or employee of the school, to be a violation of this policy. Any such violation may result in school discipline, up to and including expulsion and/or the notification of local law enforcement. Students are required to immediately report any such activities to a teacher or a school administrator. Students who report such activity and who are determined to have had no other role in the incident will not be subject to punishment.
B. Netiquette. All users must abide by rules of network etiquette, which include: 1. Remember the “Golden Rule”. Be polite and treat others the way you would like to be treated. Do not send abusive messages to others. Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks and other antisocial behaviors are prohibited. 2. Use appropriate language. Swearing, vulgarities, suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or threatening language are prohibited. 3. Avoid language and uses which may be offensive to other users. Don’t use access to make, distribute, or redistribute jokes, stories, or other material, which is based upon slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, or religion. 4. Don’t assume that the sender of a message gives you their permission to forward or redistribute the message to third parties or to give their information to third parties. This should only be done with permission or when you know that the individual would not object. 5. Be considerate when sending attachments (where this is permitted). Be sure that the file is not too large to be accommodated by the recipient’s system and is in a format that the recipient can open. 6. Sending or forwarding “chain letters” is a misuse of the system and may result in the loss of the user’s account. 7. Curricular use will take precedence over independent use. V. INTERNET SAFETY
A. General Warning; Individual Responsibility of Parents and Users. In compliance with applicable federal and state laws and for our students’ protection, Internet access at CHCA is filtered. However, even using network filters, all users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to CHCA’s network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school-aged pupils. All users must take responsibility for their use of CHCA’s computer network and Internet and stay away from these sites. Parents of minors are the best guides in deciding what materials to avoid. Any student that finds that other users are visiting offensive or harmful sites should report such use to the person designated by CHCA. B. Personal Safety. Be safe. In using CHCA’s computer network and the Internet, do not reveal personal information such as your full name, date of birth, home address or telephone number. Do not use your real last name or any other information that might allow a person to locate you without first obtaining the permission of a supervising teacher. Do not arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone you “meet” on the computer network or Internet without your parent’s permission (if you are under 18). Regardless of your age, you should never agree to meet a person you have only communicated with on the Internet in a secluded place or in a private setting. C. “Hacking” and Other Illegal Activities. It is a violation of this Policy to use CHCA’s computer network or the Internet to gain unauthorized access to other computers or computer systems, or to attempt to gain such unauthorized access. Any use which violates state or federal law relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, or which violates any other applicable law or municipal ordinance, is strictly prohibited. D. Confidentiality of Student Information. Personally identifiable information concerning students may not be disclosed or used in any way on the Internet without the permission of a parent or guardian or, if the student is 18 or over, without the student’s permission. Users should never give out private or confidential information about themselves or others on the Internet, particularly credit card numbers or Social Security numbers. A supervising teacher or administrator may authorize the release of directory information, as defined by Ohio law, for internal administrative purposes or approved educational projects and activities. E. Active Restriction Measures. CHCA, either by itself or in combination with the Data Acquisition Site providing Internet access, will utilize filtering technologies designed to prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to minors. CHCA will also monitor students’ online activities, through direct observation and/or technological means, to help prevent users from accessing such depictions or any other material that is inappropriate for minors.
Internet filtering software or other technology-based protection systems may be disabled by a supervising teacher or school administrator, as necessary, for purposes of bona fide research or other educational projects when appropriate. VI. SCHOOL PROVIDED DEVICES When using CHCA-provided technology devices, students must responsibly use the devices. Use of school provided devices is a privilege which may be revoked at any time. Violation of these policies will be subject to normal disciplinary action.
A. Content and Software – School equipment is to be used for educational purposes. Music, videos, games and software must be school approved and installed. B. Configuration – Students may not alter the configuration of the device or install passwords on screensavers, BIOS settings menus, or deletion of files or folders. Deletion of some files may also result in a computer failure and may interfere in the ability to complete classwork, directly impacting grades. C. Equipment Repairs – If the computer fails while in use, CHCA will investigate and determine whether the failure was due to the equipment, or due to improper use. If the failure is due to improper use, the student or parent may be held liable for the cost of repairs and/or replacement. D. Loss or Damage – If equipment is issued to the student, and the property is damaged, lost or stolen, the student or parent is responsible for the cost or repair or replacement based upon the fair market value at the date of loss. Loss or theft of property must be reported to CHCA within one business day, and a police report must be filed within 48 hours of the occurrence if applicable. a. If the equipment is stolen:
i. File a police report within 48 hours of the occurrence ii. Notify the Principal immediately, or no later than one business day after the theft b. If the equipment is lost: i. The student or parent will be responsible to pay CHCA the total costs associated with replacing the equipment. c. Students or parents will be charged for the equipment’s replacement or repair if the equipment was deliberately damaged or vandalized.
VII. PERSONAL DEVICES If personal electronic devices are used on CHCA’s network or on school property, use of the personal device must be consistent with the Policy. Internet access on CHCA’s network is recorded, and misuse of personal devices, on or off CHCA’s network while on school property, will be subject to normal disciplinary action.
A. Cell phone Use. Personal cell phones on campus will be set to “silent” or powered off during class unless they are being used for educational purposes as defined by the instructor. During non-class time, the regulations of the family/student handbook define how they may be used, so long as they are not disruptive and such uses comply with this Policy. Any misuse will be subject to normal disciplinary action. B. Other devices. Use of other personal devices (such as laptops, tablets, iPods, MP3 players and other personal devices) on CHCA’s campus or network must comply with this Policy; misuse will be subject to disciplinary action. C. No Expectation of Privacy. CHCA reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store information contained on student’s personal devices while these personal devices are used on school property. Students recognize that they have no expectation of privacy in their own personal devices while on school property.
VIII. PRIVACY Network and internet access is provided as a tool for your education. CHCA reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer, network and internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain CHCA’s property and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials or devices. Specifically, students shall have no expectation of privacy in any email, instant message, documents, text message, or other electronic communication sent, received, or stored by or through CHCA’s computers, computer network, electronic messaging systems, or other devices. Students must not consider these communications to be private or confidential. All student emails, instant messages, documents, text messages, and other information that is accessed, stored, created, received, or sent by or through any of CHCA’s computers, computer network, electronic messaging systems, and other devices that are CHCA’s property. Authorized CHCA personnel may view student files, communications, data, or any other electronic communication at any time for any reason.
IX. FAILURE TO FOLLOW POLICY Use of CHCA’s computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. Any user who violates this Policy, shall at a minimum, have their access to CHCA’s computer network and Internet suspended or terminated, which CHCA may refuse to reinstate for the remainder of the student’s enrollment at CHCA. A user violates this Policy by their own actions and may in certain circumstances violate the Policy by failing to report violations by other users that come to their attention. Further, a user violates this Policy if they permit another to use their account or password to access CHCA’s computer network and Internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. CHCA may also take other disciplinary action in such circumstances. Any violations of this Policy may also result in other behavioral consequences as listed under behavior/conduct guidelines published in CHCA’s Family Handbook. Disciplinary action may be determined in keeping with existing procedures and practices regarding inappropriate language or behavior. When and where applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved. Violations could result in expulsion.
X. WARRANTIES/INDEMNIFICATION CHCA makes no warranties of any kind, either express or implied, in connection with providing access to and use of its computer networks and the Internet. It shall not be responsible for any claims, losses, damages or costs (including attorney's fees) of any kind suffered, directly or indirectly, by any user or their parent(s) or guardian(s) arising out of use of its computer networks or the Internet under this Policy. By signing this Policy, users take full responsibility for their use, and the user who is 18 or older or, in the case of a user under 18, the parent(s) or guardian(s) agree to indemnify and hold harmless CHCA, the Data Acquisition Site that provides the computer and Internet access opportunity to CHCA and all of CHCA’s administrators, teachers, and staff from any and all loss, costs, claims or damages resulting from the user’s access to CHCA’s computer network and the Internet, including but not limited to any fees or charges incurred through purchases of goods or services by the user. The user or, if the user is a minor, the user’s parent(s) or guardian(s) agree to cooperate with CHCA if CHCA initiates an investigation of a user’s use or access to its computer network and the Internet, whether that use is on a CHCA computer or on another computer outside CHCA's network. XI. UPDATES Users, and if appropriate, the user’s parents/guardians, may be asked from time to time to provide new or additional registration and account information, for example, to reflect developments in the law or technology. Such information must be provided by users (or their parents or guardian) if they wish CHCA Registrar to receive such information.
XII. EDUCATION, SUPERVISION AND MONITORING Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of the Director of Information Technology or designated representatives. CHCA’s Director of 21st Century Learning, program media specialists, as well as classroom teachers or his designated representatives will provide age-appropriate training for students who use CHCA’s internet facilities. The training provided will be designed to promote CHCA’s commitment to: •
The standards and acceptable use of internet services as set forth in this Policy.
•
Student safety with regard to: (1) safety on the internet; (2) appropriate behavior while on online, on social networking Web sites, and in chat rooms; and (3) cyberbullying awareness and response.
•
Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”).
Microsoft Office 365 for Education CHCA provides for each student the cloud based Office 365 for Education. Office 365 allows an email account, storage of files, document sharing, collaboration, and productivity applications to travel with the user available through Internet access. This will permit students to save work while at school and access it from home or any location that provides Internet access. While on school grounds students have free Internet access through wireless access or on CHCA computers using data ports. With the CHCA subscription to Microsoft Office 365, students are currently able to download the Microsoft Office suite for free on up to five devices (including laptops, tablets, and smartphones). Office is downloadable on Mac as well as Windows-based devices. To download Office, students can login to their school email online at https://login.microsoftonline.com. Upon initial login, students will see a landing page with a button reading “Install Now” (Clicking the “Office 365” logo in the email page will also take students to the download site). It is essential that students maintain the latest version of Microsoft Office on their devices in order to meet the academic expectations in their classes.
Caution: Should a student or staff member using Office 365 email choose to integrate other email accounts into the school-provided Office 365 email account, users should be aware that all content therein may be monitored and reviewed by CHCA personnel in the same manner as when they use any school-provided electronic service.
CHCA Canvas Beginning in the 2016-2017 school year, CHCA teachers will utilize the Canvas learning management system (“LMS”), by Instructure. The Canvas LMS is a powerful online tool for hosting all academic material, assisting student planning, allowing assignment uploads, and online interaction between students and teachers at CHCA. Canvas will also be the online portal for accessing student grade progress and assignment feedback leading up to the issuance of a report card. Students can access CHCA Canvas via the Canvas link located on the Student Hub of the CHCA website, or by going directly to https://chcaoh.instructure.com Parents can establish their own logins to Canvas by clicking the Parent Access link on the CHCA Canvas login page and following the instructions that appear.
CHCA Wireless The CHCA Network has been segmented into guest and private for faculty/staff/CHCA owned devices. Students bringing their own devices will access the guest network “CHCA-Guest”, which allows filtered internet access through the CHCA wireless network and allows access to individual accounts in cloud computing so students can save files, access schoolprovided e-mail, access productivity tools, access their classroom course pages, assignments, and grades in our online system. Wireless network at the “N” level at both the middle and high schools now provides 100% coverage to the buildings. Our CHCA network filters meet the Child Internet Protection Act compliance guidelines and any student bringing a personal device must use the school-provided Internet access to comply with CHCA’s rules. Most devices have an icon to find the wireless network. Students can choose the public/guest network called “CHCA-Guest” with the password of CHCA-Eagles. Students must use this network when they bring their own technology devices to school.
Internet Safety Programming CHCA implements highly reputable resources for training in internet safety. Resources have included materials from INFOhio, portions of the I-SAFE curriculum for students, as well as resources from Common Sense Media and other reputable and reliable sites. INFOhio, for example, includes free database resources available from the Ohio Department of Education. I-SAFE Inc. is a leading publisher of media literacy and digital citizenship education materials and programming with worldwide distribution channels. Founded in 1998 and supported by the U.S. Congress and various executive agencies of the U.S. government, I-SAFE is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and empowering youth to safely, responsibly and productively use Information and Communications Technologies (ICT). I-SAFE’s best practices classroom curriculum for primary and secondary school students equips students to exercise safe behaviors in the digital information environment. http://www.isafe.org Most importantly, each internet safety class is guided by expert Christian teachers, who lead discussions with their students, answer questions and provide guidance in the spirit of discipleship on important topics of cyber-awareness. These teachers also count on families to continue the “tech” conversation at home, as we partner together to equip our students for success in the digital world around them. If you have questions or would like to learn more about any of the materials used for internet safety training, please contact the Upper School administration or the Director of 21st Century Learning.
Atomic Learning CHCA Upper School subscribes to Atomic Learning, an online source of tutorials in a wide range of applications software and 21st century learning skills projects for units and lessons. Teachers, students, and parents of students in these buildings will have access to this online learning site. This enable teachers to support skills requisite for a given assignment or project. If an upcoming science lesson asks students to gather data and format in a table, the teacher can cite the tutorial on formatting tables – in Word or Excel –, so students can review or practice those skills before the class period where that skill is applied. In this way, CHCA supports technology integration at the individual student learning level. Students can get the CHCA user name and password to access these tutorials from their teacher.
Frequently Asked Questions Q: How often are laptops used at school? A: From the Upper Elementary years, and especially into our Upper School program, computers are a must-have school supply. They are used on a daily basis in almost every class. Having access to a computer is essential for students to carry out their daily academic work, as well as access to online resources, textbooks, and research. Q: Are students required to have their own computers for school? A: Upper School students (7-12) are required to have their own electronic devices for classes each day. The approach to devices is staged by grade level: Ø For grades 6 and below, the school provides devices for our younger students to use in classes during the day. Upper Elementary students do have the option to bring a device that meets school-approved device specifications listed in this brochure. Ø For grades 7-9, we highly recommend students purchase one of the options recommended in our device purchase program, or a comparable electronic device with specs that match the recommendations listed in this brochure. Ø For grades 10-12, students are still able to purchase a school-selected device option. However, we would also encourage students at these grade levels to consider which devices match their desired college tracks. Some college programs are wide open to student device choice, while other programs (e.g., in music, media, or engineering) may be highly prescriptive. Understanding those requirements and selecting a laptop that best fits the student’s college hope, as well as being a good fit for CHCA, brings some added benefit during the final high school years. In any case, follow the specifications for approved devices listed in this brochure. Q: I’ve heard laptops are optional at the high school. Is this true? A: No. Having a school-approved laptop is not optional in our Upper School program, though students in the upper grades may have a wider range of approved device choices. Teachers utilize student devices as best fits each of their classroom needs, but all students do need to bring an Office-compatible laptop for school. Q: I brought my device to school to use in the classroom, but my teacher said I couldn’t use it in her classroom. Can I still use it? A: Classroom teachers have the final say on their classroom procedures. If they ask you not to use your device, then please follow those directions. Access is available but not guaranteed for each classroom situation. Q: I am uncertain on specific policy regarding times and locations my personal device can be used during the school day. Exactly when am I allowed to have it out and use it? A: The following is a general guideline for appropriate use: Grade 7-12 Appropriate Use Before/after school
Yes
In class when my teacher designates use for learning
Yes
During passing period
No
During lunch
Yes
Q: I have my laptop/mobile device with me in class. How do I get on the Internet now? A: Most laptops or other personal technology devices will detect a wireless connection when you are near one. Your device should prompt you to join an available network. The public/guest network is “CHCA-Guest” and the password is: CHCAEagles.
Q: My laptop is not prompting me to choose a wireless network. Is there another way to connect? A: In the settings menu of your device, there is usually a network access icon. Go to this icon and choose the public/guest network “CHCA-Guest” with the password as CHCA-Eagles. Q: I need to save my work onto the student Z drive. Why can’t I access this resource from my device? A: Within CHCA buildings and for a few feet outside the buildings, the CHCA wireless network will provide you Internet access only. It is not the same as the network you would normally access from the school owned computer(s). You will not see the student Z drive from wireless access on your personal device, so you need to save your work in your Office 365 account. You can access that account from anywhere you have connectivity – at home, school, and any “hot spots” in the community. Q. Can I print from my device using school printers? A: To print at school, students must access their network account or cloud account from a school-owned computer and select the printer from the network and pay any associated fees if applicable. The CHCA Guest network access does not allow printing from individual devices. Q: I just can’t get my laptop to work or connect to the network. Can I get help from someone? A: Neither your teachers nor other CHCA personnel are responsible to troubleshoot individual devices during the school day. If the staff have time, they may try troubleshooting. CHCA cannot promise solutions for problems arising from personal devices. Q: What if my laptop or device is stolen or damaged. What recourse do I have? A: Students bring electronic communication devices to school at their own risk, just like any other personal item. CHCA is not responsible if an electronic device or other item is lost, stolen, or misplaced. Parents may wish to consider insurance against damage or theft. Q: I don’t have a personal device to bring to school. Will I be penalized or miss out on instruction? A: CHCA may provide day loaners to students enrolled in a BYOD program course. These “day loaners” will be signed out each morning by the students and every attempt will be made to issue the same numbered device to that student during the use period. At the end of the last period of the day, or sooner, the student will return the device to the charging cart, and sign out. Students will be held responsible for any damage to the loaned unit while in their care. In the BYOD program, students can choose to bring a personal device which stays with them, of course. If a teacher chooses to engage students in learning that requires a device, a school owned device will be provided perhaps for a pair or three students. The teacher may reference resources for students to access outside of class to enhance understanding. Q: Am I required to use the CHCA wireless network? Can I use my own 3G/4G service? A: CHCA takes very seriously providing a safe Internet experience to its students and the requirement to use only the CHCA wireless network while at school gives the school, the student, and parents reasonable assurance of protection on the Internet. No filter is 100% effective at eliminating access to objectionable content, but the filtered internet access goes far in protecting students. Students and parents should be familiar with the BYOD Guidelines and the CHCA Technology Responsible Use Policy Statement. Q: Are there any guidelines that must be followed when I’m using my device on the proper wireless network and during designated times at school? A: Yes. Follow the BYOD Guidelines and the Technology Responsible Use Policy. Adhering to these Guidelines is essential to maintaining an academic environment and the integrity of the classroom and learning environment. Q: Do Apple computers work at CHCA? A: Many of our students use MacBook Pro or MacBook Air laptops at school, and these do work well at CHCA. These devices tend to be more expensive than Windows-based laptops, and there is not currently a 2-in-1 tablet option in Mac that resembles the 2-in-1 school computers, but they are a student favorite for their platform stability and their durability at
school. For Upper School students in grades 10-12 who are looking at media or music-related college programs, getting familiar with the features of a MacBook might make good sense as a school device. On the other hand, iPads are not approved due to their limited functionality.
Resource Links Standards for the 21st Century Learner American Association of School Librarians.
Learning and Working in a Collaborative World by Elizabeth Hubbell, Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning McREL as printed in Principal Leadership NASSP. International Society for Technology in Education National Educational Technology Standards for Students. http://www.iste.org/standards/standards-for-students 21st Century Fluencies http://globaldigitalcitizen.org/21st-century-fluencies/ Critical thinking skills essential to living in our multimedia world. "Grown Up Digital: How the Net Generation is Changing Your World," http://www.amazon.com/Grown-Up-DigitalGeneration-Changing/dp/0071508635 draws upon a 4.5 million dollar research study of over 11,000 young people and examines how the Internet generation is changing the world and all of its institutions. Eisele-Dyrli, K. (2011, February). Mobile goes mainstream. Retrieved from District Administration:
http://www.districtadministration.com/viewarticle.aspx?articleid=2704 Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. Matt S. Kuhn, Elizabeth Hubbell, Howard Pitler, Kim Malenoski. ASCD press. http://www.ascd.org/Publications/Books/Overview/Using-Technology-with-Classroom-Instruction-ThatWorks-2nd-Edition.aspx “The New One to One.” From School CIO February 2011. http://www.techlearning.com/features/0039/school-cio-the-newone-to-one/47567 CHCA Eagles Eye, Summer 2012. This edition highlights the philosophy and practice behind blended learning models currently in use at CHCA Middle School (p. 21 of 36 in the PDF). A Review of Flipped Learning. 2013. This is an online publication from The Flipped Learning Network, in collaboration with the Pearson Corporation and George Mason University. Very thorough and informative, and very current data, for those wanting to learn more about this blended learning approach.
Specification “Shopping List”
CHCA Electronic Device Specifications Does the laptop you are purchasing have the following minimum specs? 12�-13� screen? Minimum 4-8 G memory? Minimum 128 G hard drive? Hard-drive: both conventional or solid-state drives will work (solid-state will be more durable) Minimum Intel i5 processor? Windows 10 installed? 2- or 3-year warranty with service plan? Battery replacement plan? Anti-virus installed? Protective Carrying Case? *Remember that Microsoft Office suite is FREE for your student through his/her CHCA account!