students and teachers to effectively and
efficiently manage their digital workflow.”
In addition to utilizing Google
Classroom, eighth-grade students were
provided their own district-issued email
address. Providing access to email has
allowed students to communicate and
collaborate with each other as well as
teachers in the district. WJHSD utilizes
software to block inappropriate content
at school and at home. Furthermore, students have completed
an online safety course through the Common Sense Media
Certification process. WJHSD was recognized as a Common
Sense Media District in October 2017.
A “Chromebook Informational Night” was held at Pleasant
Hills Middle School for all parents of fifth and eighth graders
to provide more information and answer parent questions.
Students and their parents each signed an Acceptable Use of
Technology Agreement before the students could take their
Chromebooks home. It is the student’s responsibility to use the
Chromebooks in a responsible manner and to make sure their
Chromebook is fully charged at the beginning of each school
day. For this current school year, parents were not charged an
insurance fee for the Chromebooks, but next year parents will
be charged a small insurance fee to cover accidental damage.
Next school year will also see the expansion of the 1:1
initiative with all students in grades 9-12 receiving their own
Chromebook, as well as current sixth-grade students. This is a
very exciting time for the West Jefferson Hills School District,
and we look forward to providing students with modern
learning tools and the skills necessary to be successful in
the 21st century. Problem solving, communication, and
collaboration skills will be enhanced and will help build a
foundation for college and career readiness. The 1:1 initiative
will provide real world, relevant experiences that will better
prepare our students to compete in a technology-rich
workplace.
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS
❘
SPRING 2018
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