Technology

Technology at The Winnetka Public Schools

The Role of Technology in Education

The Winnetka Public Schools recognizes the power of progressive education that fosters meaningful and experiential learning, embraces a whole child approach, and thrives on a collaborative community. Technology plays a pivotal role in bringing these principles to life, enriching the educational experience for students.

Meaningful and Experiential Learning:

Technology enables students to engage in meaningful and experiential learning experiences that go beyond traditional textbooks and lectures. Through interactive multimedia presentations, simulations, virtual field trips, and digital resources, students can explore concepts in a hands-on manner, making connections to real-world scenarios. Active participation in their learning journey fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

Whole Child Approach:

The Winnetka Public Schools, the district understands that education is not solely about academic achievement but also about the holistic development of each student. Technology serves as a catalyst in supporting the whole child approach by addressing their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical needs. Digital tools and applications provide opportunities for personalized learning, allowing students to progress at their own pace, explore their passions, and develop their unique strengths. Additionally, technology facilitates communication and collaboration, fostering positive relationships among students, teachers, and parents, and creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

Collaborative Community:

Education is a collective effort, and The Winnetka Public Schools believes that a collaborative community is essential for the success of students. Technology enhances communication and collaboration by enabling seamless interaction among students, teachers, administrators, and parents. Online platforms, discussion forums, and video conferencing tools promote collaboration, peer-to-peer learning, and knowledge sharing. Through virtual classrooms, students can work on group projects, engage in online discussions, and receive timely feedback from their peers and teachers. This collaborative approach fosters teamwork, empathy, and global awareness, preparing students to become active contributors in an interconnected world.

In summary, the integration of technology into educational practice at The Winnetka Public Schools demonstrates the district's commitment to creating engaging and transformative learning experiences. By empowering students to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible digital citizens, the district aims to prepare them for success in an ever-evolving world.

Technology Safety and Security

Safety and Security

The safety and security of students, staff, and their digital environment are of paramount importance to The Winnetka Public Schools. The district employs a range of measures to ensure a safe and secure technology infrastructure, promoting responsible and protected use of digital resources, and, most importantly, maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of student data and information.

As a member of CLIC (Cooperative Libraries in Consortium), the District has access to a wealth of resources and expertise that further strengthens our commitment to data protection and privacy.

Regular Review of Security Measures:

Regular reviews of security measures are completed to stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices. This includes evaluating and implementing advancements in technology, network security protocols, and data protection strategies. By proactively reviewing and enhancing the District’s security measures, we ensure that our systems are equipped to handle emerging threats and provide a safe online environment for our school community.

Continuous Professional Development:

We understand the importance of ongoing professional development to keep our staff well-informed about the latest trends, tools, and techniques in digital security. Through our partnership with CLIC, we have access to a range of professional development resources and training opportunities. These resources help us stay abreast of evolving cybersecurity practices, ensuring that our staff is equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect our digital infrastructure effectively.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

As part of the CLIC community, we have the opportunity to collaborate and share knowledge with other member districts. Through this collaborative approach, we can learn from each other's experiences, exchange best practices, and leverage collective expertise to enhance our security efforts. The wealth of resources provided through CLIC enables us to access research, guidelines, and insights from industry experts, empowering us to implement robust security measures that align with current standards.

Data Privacy Compliance:

The Winnetka Public Schools takes data privacy seriously and is committed to complying with all relevant regulations and laws. As part of our partnership with CLIC, we have access to resources that help us understand and navigate complex data privacy requirements, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). By adhering to these regulations, we ensure the confidentiality and protection of student and staff information.

Adherence to Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA):

SOPPA is a state law designed to ensure the privacy and security of student information collected by educational technology services. We are committed to maintaining transparency and compliance with SOPPA regulations. To ensure the privacy and security of our students' data, we maintain a comprehensive list of approved educational technology services. This list outlines the tools and platforms that have undergone a thorough evaluation to meet SOPPA requirements and have completed a signed agreement with the District.

To access the list of approved educational technology services, please visit our SOPPA list by clicking here. Rest assured that our dedication to SOPPA compliance ensures that your child's personal information remains protected within our digital learning environment.

By implementing best practices, regularly reviewing security measures, and leveraging the resources provided through our membership with CLIC, The Winnetka Public Schools remains dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of data security and privacy. The District’s commitment to ongoing professional development, collaboration, and compliance safeguards our students, staff, and digital infrastructure, fostering a secure and trusted environment for teaching and learning.

Technology Policies and Guidelines

Acceptable Use Policy for Students, Teachers, and Staff:

The District's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) sets forth guidelines and expectations for the appropriate use of technology by students, teachers, and staff. The AUP outlines the rights, responsibilities, and ethical considerations related to technology usage within the educational community. It provides clear guidelines on acceptable behavior, access privileges, and the responsible use of digital resources.

The AUP emphasizes the importance of respecting intellectual property rights, maintaining a safe and inclusive online environment, and upholding ethical standards while using technology. It also highlights the consequences of violating the policy, including potential disciplinary actions and loss of technology privileges. By adhering to the AUP, students, teachers, and staff contribute to creating a positive and productive digital learning environment for all.

Guidelines for Responsible Technology Use in the District:

The District has established guidelines for responsible technology use to ensure a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment. These guidelines outline the expectations for using technology devices, applications, and online resources responsibly.

The guidelines cover topics such as appropriate online behavior, netiquette, digital citizenship, and cyberbullying prevention. They also provide instructions for maintaining the security and integrity of technology resources, including best practices for password management, data backup, and protection against malware.

By following these guidelines, students, teachers, and staff can make the most of technology in their educational pursuits while promoting digital literacy, responsible online behavior, and a positive digital footprint.

Information on Data Privacy and Security Measures:

The District takes data privacy and security seriously. Robust measures have been implemented to safeguard sensitive information and ensure the privacy of student, teacher, and staff data.

The District's data privacy and security measures include the use of encryption techniques, regular system backups, and secure storage protocols. The District adheres to industry standards and complies with relevant data protection laws and regulations, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

The District prioritizes ongoing training and professional development for staff to ensure they are well-versed in data privacy best practices. Security protocols are regularly reviewed and updated to address emerging threats and technological advancements.

By implementing these measures, the District strives to provide a secure and trusted digital environment where students, teachers, and staff can confidently engage in educational activities, knowing that their data and privacy are protected.

Technology Resources for Students

District-Provided Student Technology

At our district, we ensure that all students have access to a District-provided device. Students in Kindergarten through Grade 8 are provided with an iPad.

For Kindergarten through Grade 3 students, devices are kept at school to support their learning activities within the classroom environment.

Starting in Grade 4, students may have the opportunity to take devices home at the teacher's discretion, when it is deemed appropriate and beneficial for their educational needs.

From Grades 5 to 8, students are expected to bring their devices to and from school, enabling them to seamlessly integrate technology into their daily learning experiences.

List of Software, Applications, and Online Tools Available to Students

In addition to these digital tools, students and staff also have access to and utilize the Google Suite and native Apple apps.

Instructions on How to Access and Use Technology Resources

Most resources may be accessed using Google Single Sign-On, while some may be limited to Clever (ex. Brainpop)

Technology Resources for Parents

Tips for Supporting Students' Technology Use at Home:

Common Sense Media: Get the latest research, tips, and tools from Common Sense Media to help your kids make the most of the internet while staying safe. From privacy settings to parental controls, find guidance on topics like smart usernames and appropriate sharing. Visit Common Sense Media for more information.
SafeKids: SafeKids.com is a trusted resource for internet safety, providing valuable information and resources to help parents protect their children online. Stay informed by subscribing to the SafeKids News Feed.
NetFamilyNews: NetFamilyNews is the go-to resource for parents, educators, and anyone interested in young people's use of technology. Stay up to date with the latest news and insights by subscribing to the NetFamilyNews News Feed.
NetSmartz: Help your children navigate the internet safely with NetSmartz's on- and offline learning activities. Visit their website to access resources designed specifically for parents and guardians: NetSmartz for Parents and Guardians

Parent Tips:

Stay educated and communicate regularly with your children about online safety.
Develop safety guidelines for the family and create parent and child contracts.
Post the contracts and guidelines on each computer in your house.
Establish "Stop" rules to address any uncomfortable situations.
Set up research bookmark folders and regularly check the browser history.
Additionally, make use of parental controls to ensure a safe online experience.

Information on Parental Controls and Internet Safety:

To ensure your children's online safety, it's important to utilize parental controls and implement effective internet safety measures. District 36 has purchased Securly Home, a powerful tool that allows parents to manage and monitor their child's school device while at home. Follow the steps linked here to set up Securly Home or watch this tutorial video. If you run into any issues, please contact help@winnetka36.org.

Remember to communicate openly with your child about the purpose and importance of parental controls. Encourage them to ask questions and discuss any concerns they may have. Securly Home is a valuable tool to promote a safe and balanced digital experience for your child, allowing you to actively participate in their online educational journey at home.

Additional Resources:

Resources for Digital Citizenship Education:

Our district values digital citizenship education and has implemented Common Sense Media lessons for grades K-4. These lessons provide essential knowledge and skills for students to navigate the digital world responsibly.

Other Resources:

Explore additional resources such as Kids Click, a web search tool made by librarians for kids, and find online safety tips for both kids and parents. Learn about the overview of bullying and how to address it effectively.

Technology Support and Helpdesk

Contact information for the District's Technology Support Team:

For any technology-related assistance or inquiries, please reach out to our dedicated Technology Support Team. Our team is ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the district's technology resources and services. To report any technology-related issues, please follow these steps:

Email our Technology Support Team: If you are experiencing a problem with a device, software, or any other technology-related issue, send an email to help@winnetka36.org. Provide a detailed description of the problem, including any error messages or symptoms you are encountering.
Include relevant information: When reporting an issue, please include your name, the user’s name (if different), contact information, and the device or system affected. This will help us assist you more efficiently.
Provide supporting details: If applicable, provide any additional information that may be helpful in diagnosing the problem. Include screenshots, error logs, or steps to reproduce the issue, if possible.

Troubleshooting Guides and FAQs:

To help you resolve common issues with iPads, we have provided a list of basic troubleshooting tips. Please refer to the following suggestions before seeking further assistance:

Restart your iPad: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches. Press and hold the power button until the "Slide to Power Off" option appears. Slide the button to power off the device, then press the power button again to turn it back on.
Check the internet connection: Ensure that your iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi and make sure it is enabled and connected to the correct network. If needed, try resetting your Wi-Fi router.
Clear storage space: If your iPad is running low on storage, it can affect its performance. Delete unnecessary files, apps, or photos to free up space. You can do this by going to Settings > General > iPad Storage and managing the storage usage.
Reset settings: If you are experiencing persistent issues, you can try resetting the device's settings. Go to Settings > General > Reset and choose "Reset All Settings." This will not erase your data but will reset preferences and settings to their default values.

If you encounter more complex issues or if the above steps do not resolve your problem, please contact our Technology Support Team for further assistance.

Reporting Technology-Related Issues:

To report any technology-related issues, please follow these steps:

Email our Technology Support Team: If you are experiencing a problem with a device, software, or any other technology-related issue, send an email to help@winnetka36.org. Provide a detailed description of the problem, including any error messages or symptoms you are encountering.
Include relevant information: When reporting an issue, please include your name, contact information, and the device or system affected. This will help us assist you more efficiently.
Provide supporting details: If applicable, provide any additional information that may be helpful in diagnosing the problem. Include screenshots, error logs, or steps to reproduce the issue, if possible.

Our Technology Support Team will review your report and respond as soon as possible to provide guidance or resolve the issue. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a smooth and efficient technology environment for our school community.

District 36 eLearning Plan

The eLearning plan serves the purpose of enhancing flexibility in the District's learning environment and ensuring a structured school year without the need for additional emergency days at the end. When the first emergency day occurs in a school year, schools will be closed. Any subsequent emergency days, whether consecutive or not, will be designated as eLearning days. You can view the District's approved eLearning Plan by clicking here.

Instructional Technology Team

Amy Banas, Crow Island School Technology Integration Specialist
Matt Boyer, Skokie School Technology Integration Specialist
Eric Chan, Washburne School Technology Integration Specialist
Billy Spicer, Hubbard Woods Technology Integration Specialist
Jeffrey Weir, Greeley School Technology Integration Specialist