Hello everyone and welcome to another year in Maynard Public Schools. I hope everyone had a great summer and a great start to the year. Here are a few technology announcements to catch everyone up and get ready for the first weeks of school.
New Helpdesk
In an effort to consolidate resources and use software more efficiently, we have a new helpdesk system to start the school year. If you have any technology issues or questions, simply email us at helpdesk@maynard.k12.ma.us.
We have been testing this system all summer. The old web form will no longer work.
Equipment Added
In addition to the 1:1 devices being purchased, some additional classroom equipment has been purchased or redistributed.
Green Meadow School
- An additional Chromebook cart has been added to the circulation. These are larger screen (14") devices, as requested by teachers for the younger students.
- The computer lab in the library is being transformed into a flexible working space. The old computer towers and wiring have been removed. The space has been opened up by removing old barriers. Chromebooks and flexible seating will now be used in the space.
- New speakers and PA system is being installed. This upgrade will bring the entire school on a modern platform.
Fowler School
- A classroom set of 5 Chromebooks have been added to each 4th Grade Classroom.
District Wide
- New projectors or audio/visual equipment has been installed or upgraded in classrooms as needed.
Google Classroom and Tyler SIS
Over the summer the integration between Tyler SIS and Google Classroom was completed. Teachers can now link their class in Tyler360 with a Google Classroom to sync student roaster automatically.
Digital Learning Committee
The Digital Learning Committee will be starting up next month. The committee meets once a month to discuss technology issues and plan future projects. Anyone from the Maynard community is welcome. The meeting dates are posted on the website calendar (the second Wednesday of every month).
If you’d like to be involved in the discussions, but are unable to attend the meetings, please email helpdesk@maynard.k12.ma.us. We use an online communication system to discuss topics and share ideas with everyone in the committee. Members can stay involved when not able to attend meetings.
1:1 Devices and Distribution
All 8th graders will be receiving an HP x360 11 G2 EE Chromebook. This is the newest version of the Chromebook model used last school year. It's a great devices that is made extra durable to last longer in a classroom setting. It has both a keyboard/mouse and touchscreen input.
All 5th graders will have a choice of which device they wish to use as part of our CYOD 1:1 Program. The choices will be:
All three devices are great options with their own benefits. We are proud to be able to offer a selection for students and parents to choose from. The goal is for each student to select the device they are most comfortable with using for their learning.
Distribution will begin on Tuesday, September 3rd. Starting with 6th graders, who will be getting their devices from last year returned to them.
5th and 8th Grade students will be having their devices distributed as paperwork is returned. This year all paperwork will be digital (see next section).
Electronic Signatures
In an effort to reduce paper and make the entire process easier for everyone, the 1:1 program will be entirely paperless this year. Students and parents (5th and 8th grade), will be receiving an email from the Technology Department to e-sign for their 1:1 device. 5th Graders will have the additional option to choose which device they want.
We are working with Docsketch to complete this process. If you have any questions or issues with the electronic signature, please let us know at helpdesk@maynard.k12.ma.us.
Once the form is signed by both student and parent, the device will be delivered to the student's first block class.
A Few Technology Tips
With all the technology being used in the district, there a few things students, teachers, and staff can do to help ensure a longer useful life for the technology.
- Please turn off any projector when not in use. The bulbs in the projectors can run very hot. If left on for an extended time, they will burn out much quicker.
- Do not plug in multiple extension cords or surge protectors. This was brought up a few times during inspections. If you have a surge protector or power strip in your classroom, do not plug an additional power strip into it. Surge protectors, power strips, and extensions cords should only be plugged directly into the wall.
- If a speaker or PA system in your room is not functioning properly or not loud enough, please let the technology department know. Do no try to adjust the volume on the PA or speaker system in your classroom. These systems are set to a specific wattage that is supported by our amps. Adjustments can overload the amps.
If you have questions for comments about any of the announcements, please contact the Helpdesk.