March 17 Tech Update

Status of Building Technology

The contractors are still not done with all of the work in the building. Over spring break, an electrical engineering firm will be coming into our building to do a check of all the electrical systems and components. We are trying to identify what is causing the ghosting and humming problems we are getting in a projector/speaker systems.

The security cameras are in place. One additional camera is being added to the library hall. Digital Video Recorders are connected to this system. Our card readers will become active once training in how to use the system has been completed.

The bell system will eventually be switched so that the middle school and high school can be independent of one another. There are still a few bugs with the paging system, but they will be worked out soon.



Projectors - all of the projectors in the LFM/FHS complex are ghosting to some extent. This means that there is a shadow of words and images on your screen. It can also cause video to look jumpy. The projectors should all be connected and working at this time. If you are still experiencing problems, check with Char.

Speakers - all of the speakers have been installed. They are designed to run through the projector, so you need to use the projector remote volume control to adjust speaker volume. There is still a humming in the speaker system. If you are having problems with your speakers, check with Char.

Phones - all the phones should now be working properly. If you have problems with voice mail or questions about how to use fast dials or program your address book, see Char. The phones are now set to only allow calls from the outside during non-classroom hours. You will be able to place outside calls and receive internal calls. If you are calling long distance, you still need to fill out a long distance report available in the office.

DVD/VCRs - if you have a unit that stops working, please let Char know. The company that installed them is still responsible for replacing/fixing units. If you are recording on a dvd, you need to remember to use DVD+ .

School Announcements - FHS announcements are now going to broadcast over channel 87. Chris Kaminiski and Julie Schroth are coordinating announcements. Please continue to turn announcements in to Julie in the library. Chris has done a great job getting this system up and running, it will be nice to have our broadcast announcements back on the air!

AirLiners - The FHS math and science departments are using their new AirLiners. These are hand held smartboards that allow the teacher to control their computer from anywhere in the classroom while writing notes on the projector screen, letting students share work and highlighting important information on webpages.

Turning Point Student Responders- FHS/LFM has two sets of student responders that are now available. Training will take place right after spring break. To learn all about them, read my blog posting called "CLICKERS" on the Technology Integration and Curriculum blog. You will be able to sign out the responders from the library after spring break and you have completed training.

Fairview Mail - The district will be switching over to the new Fairview Mail system after spring break. It is important that you AT LEAST go to http://fairview.k12.oh.us/webmail one time and sign in using your building computer network login and password. This was, your leeca mail will be forwarded to this account. IF you have problems logging in or would like help setting up your account please let Char know. Directions for using the options for the account are in the blog posting called "MAIL" or are available from Char.

Distance Learning Lab - The DL is now open for business. Thanks to Jeff and the custodial staff, we have cleared out room 214 and set up the chairs and equipment for the lab to be functional. There are SO many great learning opportunities that are now available to all of us and our students. Kathy Ingersoll, Mark Weidus, Elizabeth Ptaszek, Janice Baker, Bryan Weir, Laura Hall, Gayle Dill, Rose Mary Young and Char can all help you use the equipment. We will use a calendar at the library front desk to schedule DL times. We are lucky to be in a partnership with the Lorain District Learning Consortium (http://www.pageflakes.com/LCDLC.Ohio/12258169/)
They will help us to coordinate programs from content providers, locate teacher to teacher classroom partnerships and provide staff development. Their next training session will be April 3 at 4:00 in our DL (room 214). Come and learn about using webcams in your classroom.

Wiki and Blogging in your classroom - Are you interested in learning how to use blogs and wikis? Come to a special drop in class at 3:00 on April 3 in the FHS library. All levels of experience welcome. Talk to Kathy Ingersoll about how she is using these tools in her English classes.

Remember to use the Technology Integration and Curriculum Blog at http://edtechgirl.blogspot.com/ or find it linked on the Technology homepage http://fpsdtech.rwlo.org