Post #24: PARCC, Programming, Summer Tech Workshops, Teacher Laptops,

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Due to PARCC, Joe's tech schedule maybe modified each week. Please continue to let me know when you have issues. Joe has been very flexible in getting to HH to fix computers that need to be addressed quickly. Thank you for your understanding and patience. As always, please let me know if you have questions.
Week one of PARCC went well. We had a few technology hiccups on day one but with a few network tweaks Albie resolved those issues. Next week, students will be taking PARCC tests Monday -Thursday. Teachers in grades 3 - 5, please remember to shut down and charge the computers every night! This actually is good practice ~ restarting of computers refreshes the settings and improves performance (even more important with our aging computers). Thank you for you assistance with making sure the computers are ready for testing days. 

Programming - Thanks to the PTO, the technology lab will be getting several new programming tools ~ Dot and Dash and KIBO. Dot and Dash are robots that students program and control with ipads. KIBO uses hands-on programming blocks that students put together to build their program. Both tools will fit in nicely with our programming units. Thank you PTO!!
  


Summer Tech Workshops: Are you looking for tech workshops this summer? Check out the offerings by EdTech Teacher - lots of great workshops in Boston Summer 2016!

 Teacher MAC Laptop Updates: Leisha Simon sent out an email over break on the new procedures to install important updates on teacher laptops. These updates are to reduce internet threats, viruses... A necessary process in this day and age. A message will popup on your computer screen when updates are available for your computer.

 Please do the following to assist in these important software updates:
  • Plug in your computer prior to beginning updates.
  • When prompted, accept these updates and follow the on-screen instructions, which often includes a computer restart. 
  • Close applications and restart your computer on a regular basis, as some updates automatically install after a simple computer restart.
     -- Restart your computer daily or at least 2-3 times per week
TA laptops and student laptops will be updated manually by the techs as necessary; they will not get the automatic updates. Thank you for your attention to this important IT support request! Your effort will help safeguard your computer while on school and home networks!