Student Laptop Computer Handbook

2014-2015

Table of Contents
Laptop Computer User Agreement page 2
1:1 Laptop Program Expectations page 4
1:1 Laptop Parent Guide page 7
Acceptable Use and Care Agreement page 8
 1:1 Laptop Program Information

The focus of the 1:1 Laptop program is to provide technology tools and resources to the 21st
Century Learner. Student learning comes alive through innovative use of technology integrated into
learning environments across the school, preparing our students for their futures.

Engagement & Interactivity

Student engagement is elevated when learning is customized through the use of technology in the
classroom. Engaging students in a digital learning experience allows students to see and interact
with content in a variety of ways. Research suggests that when technology is integrated into
instruction, students not only learn technology skills, but students develop content knowledge and
processing skills to prepare for the 21st Century work place.

Learning Anytime, Anywhere

When learning is digitized and made available online, students are able to access classroom content
and lectures, collaborate with peers, complete projects, and participate in authentic discussions all
at their finger tips. Learning opportunities expand beyond the brick-and-mortar classroom and
open the door to alternative learning environments.

Collaboration, Communication, and Shared Learning

Digital communication tools are very much a part of the world that students live in. Educationally,
these tools can be highly beneficial in capturing new ways of processing and engaging in our work.
Digital communication tools such as documents in the cloud, email, wikis, blogs, and learning
management systems allow students to collaborate with each other, their classroom, and the world
electronically. Classroom tools such as these extend student learning and allow discussion to occur
outside of school and class time. These digital interactions give students an opportunity to ask
questions and answer questions, problem solve, think critically, and use interactions with peers to
gain a deeper understanding of subject matter. Technology transforms the teacher from a director
of learning to a facilitator of learning.

The procedures and information within this document apply to all laptops distributed by Math and
Science Academy, as well as any other device considered by Administration to come under this
documentation. Teachers may set additional requirements for use in their classroom.

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 Math & Science Academy
Laptop Computer Use Agreement
Please read this entire section carefully.

This agreement is made effective upon receipt of computer, between Math & Science Academy (School),
the student receiving the laptop (Student), and his/her parent(s) or legal guardian (Parent). The Student
and Parent(s), in consideration of being provided with a laptop computer, software, and related materials
(Computer) for use while a student at Math & Science Academy, hereby agree as follows:

1. Equipment

1.1 Ownership: The School retains sole right of possession of the Computer and grants permission
to the Student to use the Computer according to the guidelines set forth in this document.
Moreover, the Schools staff retains the right to collect and/or inspect the Computer at any time,
including via electronic remote access and to alter, add, or delete installed software or hardware.

1.2 Equipment Provided: Efforts are made to keep all laptop configurations the same The School
will retain records of serial numbers of provided equipment. Parents and/or Students are
encouraged to purchase protective cases for a Computer as long as the case is easily removable.

1.3 Substitution of Equipment: In the event the Computer is inoperable, the School has a limited
number of spare laptops for use while the Computer is being repaired or replaced. However, it
cannot guarantee a loaner will be available at all times. This agreement remains in effect for such a
substitute. The Student may not opt to keep a broken Computer or to avoid using the Computer
due to loss or damage. Please note that if a Student forgets to bring the Computer or power adapter
to school, in most cases, a substitute will not be provided.

1.4 Responsibility for Electronic Data: The Student is solely responsible for any non-School installed
software and for any data stored on the Computer. It is the sole responsibility of the Student to
backup such data as necessary. The School reserves the right to add, remove, or block any software
on the laptop at any time.

2. Damage or Loss of Equipment/Software

2.1 Responsibility for Damage: The Student is responsible for maintaining the Computer at all times.
The Student shall use reasonable care to ensure that the Computer is not damaged beyond normal
wear and tear. Refer to the Standards for Laptop Computer Care document for a description of
expected care.

2.2 Payment for Damages: Payment for damages of the Computer in all instances must be made
within two (2) weeks of the Computer being returned to the School. If payment has not been made
to the School Contact or Technology Coordinator, substitute equipment may be reclaimed.

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 2.3 Responsibility for Loss: In the event the Computer is lost or stolen, the Student and Parent may
be billed the full cost of replacement.

2.4 Actions Required in the Event of Damage or Loss: An event of damage or loss must be reported
immediately to the School Contact or Technology Coordinator. If the Computer is stolen or
vandalized the Parent and/or Student will file a police report on behalf of the student.

2.5 Technical Support and Repair: The School does not guarantee the Computer will be operable ,
but will make technical support, maintenance, and repairs for normal damages. The School is not
responsible for off-site internet connections or technical support related to off-site internet
connections.

3. Acceptable Use Policies

3.1 Monitoring: The School may monitor computer use using a variety of methods, including but
not limited to teacher observation, browser history, or electronic remote access, to ensure
compliance with the Schools Acceptable Use Policy (see 524 Technology Acceptable Use and
Safety Policy https://www.mnmsa.org/bod/policies?dir=%2F_Current_Word_Versions%2F).

4. Laptop Return/Fines

4.1 Termination of Enrollment: Laptops and accessories must be returned to the designated location
within the school. Students who graduate early, withdraw, are expelled, or terminate enrollment for
any reason must return their school-issued laptop, charge cord, and other school equipment on the
date of withdrawl.

If a student fails to return the laptop and accessories at the end of the school year or upon
termination of enrollment, that student or his/her parent/guardian will be subject to criminal
prosecution or civil liability. The family will also pay the replacement cost of the laptop. Failure to
return the laptop will result in a theft report being filed with the Police Department.

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 MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
1:1 LAPTOP PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS
Math & Science Academy issued laptops are designed to support the academic growth of students and augment their learning
experiences.

1. Student Use in Classrooms

Students will be required to take their computer to each class each day, unless told differently by
the teacher for that specific day. Expectations will be communicated by the teacher.
When the computer is not being used in class, it is to be closed or at a 45-degree angle. Students
are expected to be working on school-related assignments during class.

2. Bringing the Computer to School

It is imperative that students bring their computers to school charged and ready to use each day
for their learning. Teachers will be designing their lessons and classrooms based on students
having access to their computers.
Students who accidentally leave their computers at home will not have access to a spare laptop
for that class day. Students may only use the temporary replacement process for non-
functioning computers (those in need of service not related to uncharged battery.)

3. Charging of Computers
It is the students responsibility to have their computers charged each day when they come to
school.
Establish a routine at home for the charging of the computer so that it can charge overnight.
The charging time of the computer and responsibility is very similar to the charging of a cell
phone. Charging time varies on laptop devices but can be expected to take 3 - 8 hours for a full
charge.

4. Loss or Theft of Computers

Computers that are lost or stolen need to be reported to the School Contact or Technology
Coordinator immediately.
If a computer is stolen or vandalized, the parent is responsible to file a police report.
If a computer is lost, the family will be financially responsible for its replacement.
Students should never bring computers to the athletic locker rooms. It is safest to keep them
secured in the students assigned locker.

5. Downloading Programs and Personalizing the Computer

All students will be able to personalize their computers through legal methods. All items must
be appropriate and not violate any school policies.
Stickers and other permanent markings on the outside of the computer will not be allowed.
Every computer is easily identified by a specific numbering system (Asset Tag) that is placed
on the computer by the School and may not be removed.
MSA encourages the purchase of protective covering or cases for the computer.

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6. Ear Buds and Head Phones
Use of ear buds or head phones in class and/or during study times is at the discretion of the
teacher.
Each student must provide his/her own ear buds or head phones.

Students are expected to follow all the specific guidelines listed in this document and take any additional
common sense precautions to protect the computer assigned. Loss or damage resulting from failure to abide
by the details below may result in full-financial responsibility.

1. General Care
Treat this equipment with as much care as if it were your own property.
Do not attempt to remove or alter the physical structure of the computer, including but not
limited to removing or change of keys, screen cover, or plastic casing. If these actions are taken,
families will be responsible for the cost of repair or replacement.
Do not remove or interfere with the serial number or any identification placed on the computer.
Keep the equipment clean.
Do not do anything to the computer that will permanently alter it in any way.
Back up your data. Never consider any electronic information safe when stored on only one
device.
Anything on the desktop will not be saved or be retrieved if there are system issues. It is
recommended to use a flash drive to backup information.
Do not put stickers or use any type of markers or adhesive on the computer.
Close the lid of the computer when it is not in use in order to save battery life and protect the
screen.
Do not walk from one location to another with an open computer.

2. Keep the Computer in a Safe Place

The computer and other equipment must be stored in a safe place. A locker, when locked, is
considered a safe place. Do not leave the computer on the floor where it might be stepped on or
within reach of small children or pets. Do not leave it in a car or anywhere it might be exposed
to extreme temperatures.
Laptops left unattended in classrooms or other areas are considered unattended and will be
confiscated by faculty or staff as a protection against theft. If confiscated, the student will
receive a warning before getting the laptop back. If the laptop is confiscated a second time, the
student may be required to get a parent signature before getting the laptop back, along with other
potential appropriate consequences. Unattended and unlocked equipment, if stolen including
at school will be the familys responsibility.

3. Keep the Computer Away from All Liquids

Exposure to liquids will severely damage a laptop and will result in significant repair costs. Keep
all food and liquid away from the laptop. Open cans of pop and cups of coffee (even those with
lids) are especially dangerous. Do not put a bottle of water/pop/etc. in your backpack with the
laptop even if it is sealed.

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4. Computer Problems
It is a students responsibility to seek technical assistance to ensure a working computer at all
times.

5. Only One User

Students should not allow another student to use the computer they have been assigned. Loss or
damage that occurs when anyone else is using it will be the students responsibility.

6. Cleaning the Computer

Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth in most cases when cleaning the computer. If necessary, the cloth
may be dampened slightly to assist in cleaning areas that do not appear to be coming clean with
the dry cloth. A computer screen shows fingerprints and smudges easily. Be sure to follow
proper cleaning procedures to keep the screen looking new.

7. Shutting Down the Computer

Shut down the computer when it will not be used for an extended duration.

8. Closing the Computer

When the student put the computer to sleep by closing the display screen the drive continues
to spin briefly while saving data. Moving the computer abruptly before the computer is shut
down may damage the hard drive and cause data loss.
The laptop lid/screen needs to be completely closed when moving it from one point to another.

9. Carrying the Computer

Always completely close the lid and wait for the computer to enter sleep mode before moving it,
even for short distances. Movement while the computer is on can result in permanent damage
to the hard-drive and therefore the loss of all data. Sleep mode is sufficient.
It is recommended the student stores the computer in a protective case when not in use.

10. Personal Health and Safety

Avoid extended use of the computer resting directly on the students lap. The bottom of the
laptop can generate significant heat and therefore cause temporary or permanent injury to the
user. Students should use a barrier such as a book or devices made specifically for this purpose
when working on their lap. Also, avoid lap-based computing while connect to the power adapter
as this will significantly increase heat production.
Avoid lengthy use involving repetitive tasks (such as typing and use of the track-pad). Take
frequent breaks as well as alter physical position (typing while standing, sitting, leaning, etc.) to
minimize discomfort.

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 MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
1:1 LAPTOP PARENT GUIDE

Digital safety is of the utmost importance. Intentional, frequent discussions with your student of any age, are
necessary and allow you to be proactive in protecting your child and further educating him/ her. Experts
warn that children are most vulnerable to online dangers while at home. Please note the following
suggestions as they might be of assistance in further educating your child about appropriate use of technology
including the computer and home Internet use.

In alignment with the Math and Science Academy Acceptable Use Policy for Technology, beyond school,
parents must take responsibility for the use of technology and the Internet. As a parent, you are
responsible for monitoring your students use of District provided educational technology including
District-issued email and cloud accounts as well as the Internet. This includes Internet use at home or any
other remote location outside of school.

Filter Access
While many potential dangers are filtered and blocked on the schools wireless network, students often have
complete, unrestricted access to inappropriate sites at home. Experts strongly suggest installing software to
filter and block inappropriate content on your wireless home network. Some possible filters to consider
include OpenDNS (free version available), SafeEyes, and NetNanny. Some of these products offer additional
protection features such as cell phone filtering, text message and photo screening tools, and digital footprint/
reputation monitoring.

Set Expectations
Regularly share your expectations with your child about accessing only appropriate sites and content, as well
as being a good person when online (even when parents arent watching). Understand that your childs use of
many technologies (such as computers, iPads, iPods, video game systems and cell phones) likely gives your
teen the ability to connect to unfiltered public wireless networks (such as in a library or coffee shop, by
picking up a neighbors wireless signal, or connecting to the Internet through a cell service). Therefore, it is
important to maintain regular, open dialog about Internet use an access. Discuss your expectations for
appropriate use and behavior.

Monitor & Limit Screen Time

Experts suggest having teens surf the Internet in a central place at home, such as the kitchen or family room,
rather than away from adult supervision or behind a closed door. Know what your child is doing with
technology and how his or her time is being spent. Technology can be a great tool and resource, but also has
the potential to be a big distractor. Help your child learn to focus on completing tasks or assignments prior
to engaging in other Internet activities. Teaching todays children how to manage multiple sources of
information and potential distractions is a critical skill, one best learned before heading off to college or the
workplace.

Put the Computer to Bed, But Not in the Bedroom

Parenting experts suggest parking all technology devices, from cell phones to computers, in a common family
room overnight to discourage late night, unmonitored use and sleep disruption. Dont allow your child to
sleep with the computer. Remember to model appropriate use and balance of technology in your own life as
well.
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 MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
1:1 LAPTOP PROGRAM AGREEMENT
Math & Science Academy grants the user permission to use technology equipment for school and home use
based on the mutual agreement of the following:

Agreements
1. I will return the equipment on the established due dates and times and understand that I may be
billed for replacement costs if equipment is damaged, lost, or not returned promptly.
2. I will treat this equipment with care.
3. I will maintain the equipment in clean condition.
4. I will avoid use in situations that are conducive to loss or damage.
5. I will follow general maintenance alerts and advice from MSA Technology Personnel.
6. I will promptly report any malfunction, loss, damage, or theft to the School Contact or Technology
Coordinator.
7. I will adhere to the Math & Science Academy Acceptable Use Policy (524 Technology Acceptable
Use and Safety Policy) when using this equipment at all times and locations.

I understand if I violate the above, I may not be permitted to checkout school equipment in the
future and may be billed for any costs incurred by the school.

___________________________________________ __________________
Parent/Guardian Signature Date

___________________________________________ __________________
Student Signature Date