The Valparaiso Middle Schools, Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, will be rolling out a 1:1 Chromebook computer initiative this fall. Each student will receive a school issued Chromebook computer to be used in the classroom as well as at home for educational purposes. Teachers will be incorporating computer technology as part of their classroom instruction, assignments, projects, research and assessment. The Chromebooks can be used offline and many assignments can be downloaded before students leave school if internet access is not available.
To help parents learn more about this initiative, we held two identical Parent Informational Sessions on August 9th and August 11th.
If you were not able to attend one of these meetings, we encourage you to access the presentation by clicking Here.
To view the notes click on the options icon on the tool bar at bottom of the screen and then select open speaker notes.
During these sessions, we discussed Chromebook care, internet safety and frequently asked questions. There will not be any additional cost to families up front; however, students are responsible for the care and replacement cost if their Chromebook is lost, stolen or damaged, just as they would any textbook.
This is an exciting time for our middle school students, teachers and for the Valpo school district. The immediate access to information and the increased use of computers in education will have a beneficial effect on student learning and achievement. This move will help engage students in critical thinking, collaboration and communication.
We are in the process of building this technology information webpage for more information on the 1:1 initiative and helpful hints.
Elizabeth Krutz, Principal TJMS
Chris Fields, Principal BFMS