Computers

Classroom computers make up the majority of our approximately 3000 computer systems and consist of a majority of Hewlett-Packard/Compaq personal computers mixed with a few Apple Macintosh computers. Every classroom has access to approximately 3 of these systems. Since many of the education software packages have been slow to adopt the Apple OS X operating system and hardware costs of the Macintosh platform, all new purchases of computers have been Hewlett-Packard/Compaq PCs for the last few years.

All of the libraries in the division provide card catalog access through web-based interfaces which allows the students and teachers to search for resources at home. Most of the schools use Companion Software's Alexandria for library services and one school uses Follett Software.

We are in the process of integrating Novell ZenWorks into the management of software on our computers. This enables us to push new applications and updates directly to the desktops of administrators and classroom teachers. It has been integral in the maintenance of the many computer systems that our staff must manage.

Many software titles for educational use that are installed in our schools include Plato Pathways, Renaissance Learning Software, and The Geometer's Sketchpad. Software is also used in some lab environments that allow teachers to monitor and limit computer access to students.

All computers with network access are provided with Internet access and are offered a choice of Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox. Microsoft Office is installed on each system providing an up to date productivity package for letters, spreadsheets, and presentations, and database use. In addition, each PC is also equipped with anti-virus software.

Our Student Information System is based on the Pearson Education software package, PowerSchool. As more and more reports are needed by the state and federal governments, more information about students and their performance in school is needed to be managed. This software allows for the district to coordinate student ID numbers, schedule classes, track disciplinary actions, special needs of students, and much more. The information in this software is used to coordinate with other software packages that need access to vital student data.

Our cafeterias are powered by School-Link Technologies' WebSMARTT software which communicates with the central office to coordinate prices, ordering, and transactions across the division.