CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
1:1 LAPTOP PROGRAM
8th GRADE STUDENTS
2011 - 2012

 

FAQ's
Information for Community Members about the 1-1 Portable Computer Initiative

1. Which grade levels are participating in the 1-1 Laptop Program?
For the 2011-2012 school year, 7th and 8th grade will be participating. In the future the program will include 6th grade to 8th grade.

2. What will happen to the existing computer lab?
The existing computer lab will still be in use by the lower grades.

3. What if I forget my computer and need it for class?
Loaner computers are only available for students whose computers are out for repairs.  If there happens to be a loaner available you can use it, however there is no guarantee there will be one available.
It is the student’s responsibility to bring their laptop to school every day.

4. Will students use computers in every class?
Most teachers will be using computers in their classes but it will depend upon the lesson.

5. Are there any required or recommended accessories?
Required accessories: All required accessories will be provided by CCS.

Recommended accessories: An external hard drive and earbuds are recommended. 

6. How will students be kept from engaging in inappropriate use of computers?
CCS will install an advanced content filter and network traffic monitors. The faculty and staff will monitor students when using computers. Students are expected to demonstrate safe and ethical use at all times.

9. Will faculty be required to use computers in each course?
Yes, all teachers will use the computer in their course.

10. Will students receive any special training on how to use their computer?

Most of the required skills have already been taught in computer class. However the Student Tech Team will be available to help students Monday-Friday evenings by phone or email. CCS will provide ongoing cyber-safety training.

11. Am I expected to use my computer both at school and at home?
Yes, any assignment worked on during school can be worked on at home.

12. Will I need to have wireless Internet access at home?
No, wired Internet is also ok. If no Internet is available at home, the use of local applications (such as Word) will work fine.

13. Can I install software on my computer?
No, you may not.

14. What kind of training will faculty be provided to make sure that computers are appropriately used?
All new faculty will be trained prior to the start of school. CCS monthly teacher in-service professional development includes technology training.  

15. Can I listen to music on my computer?
Only with the permission of the teacher.

16. Where can I use my computer when I am not in class?
While on campus all computer use must be supervised.  Computers are to be used only in the classroom with a teacher present.

17. What about software updates for student computers?
Software updates are the responsibility of the student.

18. Will the computer be required to have an Internet filter?
No. All network traffic is filtered when on CCS campus. But all Internet use outside of campus will not be monitored.

19. What type of security do you run on CCS wireless network?
WPA TKP-PSK

20. How long can I expect my computer to last?
Most laptops are designed to last for 3 year with normal use.

21. How can my computer be protected from damage, loss, or theft during the day?
During school hours the laptops are kept in a designated classroom that is supervised by CCS staff. Students will carry laptops from class to class. When not in use, as at lunchtime, laptops will be kept in Rm. 402, 412, or 416 that will be locked at all times. The laptops are to be dropped off in the morning and picked up at the end of the day.

22. What happens if my computer is stolen or lost?
Parents are encouraged to check their homeowners’ policy for coverage.

23. What happens if my computer breaks?
If the computer breaks it will be evaluated first by the Director of IT. If the problem is beyond the scope of the Director of IT, parents will be notified of the problem and be responsible for taking the computer to an Apple authorized repair location. CCS will provide a loaner laptop for 10 days from the date the parent is notified of the need for repair.

24. Will my parents or guardians be notified when my computer is being repaired?
Yes, the advisor will notify them.

25. What about backing up my files?
Backing up files is the responsibility of the student. It is recommended that parents purchase an external hard drive and use it with Time Machine to automatically back up files.

26. What about extra battery?
An extra battery is not necessary.

27. What if my computer battery is out of power?
Students are responsible for charging their laptop every night. Laptop charge stations are available while in storage in Rm. 402, Rm. 412 and Rm. 416.

28. What happens to my computer when I leave CCS?
CCS owned laptop it must be returned to the Director of IT before the last day of school. It must be in clean working condition.

29. My backpack is already too heavy! Adding a portable computer will only make a bad situation worse.
It will actually improve the situation. Students will take digital notes. Teachers will post or email handouts instead of paper handouts. Students will keep digital binders and will submit homework digitally. Students can purchase digital textbooks. This should reduce the weight of their backpacks.

30. What about the health affects of spending too much time on the computer? Can't this lead to problems with a student’s eyes, neck, back, and wrist, or other health issues?
All the student chairs are ergonomic. Students will be advised on proper
body alignment and healthy habits for computer use.

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