What is DB?

Students will be able to use their own wireless capable devices to access the Internet, their files, the public drive, and key programs.

When will DB start?

The access will be enabled February 1st, 2010

Are students required to bring a device to school?

No! We are making it possible for those that have such devices to use them for learning at school. There is not an expectation that students must bring such devices to school.

Will the Internet be filtered?

Yes. The same software that filters Internet access on district-owned computers will filter the access through our wireless network.

How will students gain access?

Students will access our wireless network in the same way they would access any such network at home, at a library, or at a business. They will make the connection, provide their username and password, and they are in.

How will students get tech support?

School District staff members are not authorized to work on students’ personal devices. Students will be able to access tech support information and advice on the THS website. This area of the website is under construction.

I would like to buy a device, what should I buy?

Resources are available on the THS website. Click here to go to the purchasing recommendations page.

What about security?

Students are encouraged to keep their electronic devices with them at all times when they are not secured in a locker. Day-use lockers will be provided. Students will need to bring their own locks.

What exactly will students have access to?

Students will have access to the filtered Internet, to their My Documents folder, to the Public Drive, and to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Will students be able to use their devices for chatting and such?

Online chatting tools are blocked by our content filter and will be blocked for students who are accessing the Internet at school from a personal device.

Won’t allowing students to use these tools increase the likelihood that students will be distracted or off task?

Student access to technology increases our ability to achieve Classroom 10 and the outcomes we want for our students. We are going to use technology as a tool to leverage learning. In fact, we think of computers as just that, another tool. Pencils, scissors, and markers are all tools we use in education. Any tool, even pencils, can be a distraction if we don't provide an environment for using them for learning.

Will power cords or plug ins be provided?

Students are expected to bring their devices to school fully charged and to manage their power so that their battery lasts through the day. For the time being at least, classrooms will not be outfitted with power cords or additional outlets.

What kinds of devices can be used to access the wireless network?

Laptops, netbooks, some cell phones, iPod Touches, and many other devices all are wireless-capable.

What about students in other buildings?

For the time being Digital Backpack is a Tahoma High School project. When all goes well at THS we will begin planning to open up Digital Backpack at Tahoma Junior High as well.

Would the school’s insurance cover damage or theft of student owned devices?

No. Personal electronic devices are the sole responsibility of the owner. The School District accepts no financial responsibility for personal devices.

Will students be monitored at all times when they are using personal electronic devices?

Students will have independent use. Access will be monitored only to the degree possible in a high school setting. Students may use their devices outside of regular classrooms, in the common areas.

Have a question that should be answered here?

Email Ethan Smith, Digital Backpack Project Lead at esmith@tahomasd.us