If my child brings a computer to school, will they have wide-open access to the internet?
No. If your child brings a laptop to school, the internet access we provide is heavily filtered. sites identified as inappropriate by our filtering software. We filter out categories by adult content, gambling, illegal/questionable, chat and online communities, proxy/hacking sites, alcohol, and other sites that have been identified as not in keeping with our code of conduct.
Please note: If you provide mobile hot spots for your child (for example, through your cell phone provider), these are not controlled by the school and provide unfiltered access to the internet for anyone who connects to it AND are prohibited for use in school.
Who is responsible for my child’s computer while it is at school?
As with any personal property brought to school, your child is solely responsible for its handling and care. To that end, we can not provide any maintenance or support for your equipment. If your child is having difficulty connecting to the internet, we can provide some basic troubleshooting assistance, but any maintenance, updates or repair are the sole responsibility of the owner of the equipment. Students will be expected to secure their technology when not in use. The school cannot be held liable for any theft or damage of equipment brought onto school property.
What if we can not afford to provide a computer for our child/children?
The school will provide equipment for the day, in school, for students who do not have their own access for class (this would include students who simply forgot to bring it). We are also committed to ensuring no child's instruction is limited by a lack of technology. Parents who cannot afford a computer for the child/children should contact their child's Guidance Counselor directly to discuss options.
What if my child does not bring his/her computer to school?
Currently, if students have not brought a computer to school for whatever reason, they should go to the library before schools starts and borrow one for that day in school. Students will find that working on their own computers makes the transition between home and school more seamless. However, we do realize there are times when it simply is not possible to bring their computer to school. The number of computers available for daily loaning is limited in quantity but we will work with our students to cover these situations.
What about software?
As a district, we use Google Workplace and Microsoft Office products. Students of Indian Hill Schools are able to download and install Microsoft Office for free on up to 5 laptops in their household (including the one they bring to school). This license is good for as long as they are a student at Indian Hill.
Will students be using their computers every day in every class?
Students will use their computers to support and enhance their learning and as directed by the learning opportunities of the class. For some students, this will mean taking notes during class, taking online tests, online research, as well as using it as directed for activities, for others this may mean simply using it as required in the lesson. Not every lesson every day will use technology. However, it is helpful for students to have access to their computers as questions arise and for just-in-time learning.