Technology

1:1 is shorthand for one-to-one. This means there will be one technology learning device for each student to use for learning at both school and home. 

1:1 supports the curricular goals of the school district through the strategic use of technology when it makes the most sense. One device per student provides access to tools on a daily basis, allows for more face to face time, differentiated instruction and more opportunities to access new or varied resources. 

1:1 does not mean 100% computer time for students. It is not a replacement for teachers and does not require teachers or students to create complex or major technology projects or tools. Teachers are not required to develop completely new lessons. Existing lessons are augmented and enhanced through the provision of technology being integrated into the classroom.

Grade K-2 students use 1:1 classrooms sets of Apple iPads.

Grade 3-6 students use 1:1 classroom sets of Chromebooks.

Grade 7-12 students are assigned a 1:1 Chromebook as their personal learning device to be used both at school and at home.

Chromebooks

The Chromebook offers several important advantages which makes them an attractive option for schools. Chromebooks lend themselves to creating content and collaboration with built in keyboards, touchpads, and variety of external peripherals that can be used to collaborate and share. Chromebooks are devices specifically designed to access the educational content and collaborative resources provided by the Google Workspace for Education system. They provide a lower cost, easy to manage and secure solution to provide anytime, anywhere access to students.

Apple iPads

For early elementary age K-2 learners, the iPad provides a touch-enabled interface that allows non-readers to create, share, explore and collaborate. These dedicated classroom devices foster an ever evolving advancement toward transforming learning with technology through daily access to devices. The expansive number of free and low cost software apps available for early learners produces a comprehensive set of learning tools for our teaching staff and students.

Internet Content Filtering

Federal regulations required all K-12 schools to filter Internet access for minors and block inappropriate content. WAPS enables Internet content filtering all all school issued devices when in use both at school and when connected to the Internet outside of school. No filtering software will block 100% of questionable content. It is ultimately the parent/guardian responsibility to monitor student Internet use at home.

The use of WAPS technology resources is a privilege, not a right. Appropriate and ethical use of these resources leads to student success in the classroom and a strong educational partnership between WAPS and the home. 

The required expectations and responsibilities surrounding the care and use of WAPS student technology devices and be found in the Chromebook Handbook. 

The Chromebook devices are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects, as well as limited manufacturer defined accidental damages. While normal wear and tear is anticipated as part of owning a device, negligent or repeated damage, loss or theft is the responsibility of the student. Through an optional Device Protection Plan, the Winona Area Public Schools will offer limited protection against negligent damages, loss or theft of the device. Participation is optional.

Students in grades 7-12 are permitted to use their Chromebook both at home and at school. Parents of students in these grades are required to indicate their choice to participate in this optional Plan. The participation form is included as part of the annual student information update process completed annually by WAPS parents. The full details of the device protection plan can be found in the Chromebook Handbook.