Dear Teachers, Speech and Language Therapists, OTs, Counselors, Psychologists, and Site Administrators: 


Please accept this invitation to develop capacity for learning with technology. Continue reading and complete the enrollment form (click here) to loan either an iPad or Chromebook from the district for a three year term. There are two windows to opt in. The first is today through May 29 and the second is August 13 through the 21st. In order to be eligible for the first window you must complete the enrollment form by May 29.


Enrollment in the program includes an expectation of three hours of professional development over the course of the 15-16 school year. Professional development will be offered in one and three hour blocks over the summer and one hour blocks at different sites throughout the school year. If you can demonstrate proficiency with your device, you will not be required to attend professional development. Training and competencies will be based on the following topics:


iPad

introduction, navigation, settings, mail

Apple IDs, App management, introduction to Google Apps on the iPad

introduction to iMovie


Chromebook

introduction, navigation, settings, mail

introduction to Google Apps including HangOuts and Blogger

introduction to Google Classroom


Recently we participated in the BrightBytes Clarity survey that provided data on our district’s educational technology landscape. In it, teachers expressed interest in professional development on topics such as multimedia skills, classroom management with technology, and online collaboration. In order to support that need we feel that teachers must have technology to explore and discover with. By providing devices and professional support we hope to empower teachers with tools and skills that will help students become future ready.


If you are unfamiliar with iPads or Chromebooks, here is an overview to help you decide:


The iPad Air is Apple’s touchscreen tablet computer. It’s display measures 10” diagonally and a fully charged battery will last ten hours when it’s new. It has both front and rear facing cameras. It excels as a multimedia device with a touchscreen that is intuitive to use. It is customized with apps. It can be used in a variety of educational settings. It will come with a keyboard/case and an adapter that will allow you to connect the iPad to a display or projector.


A Chromebook is a lightweight laptop optimized for the Internet. It runs Google’s Chrome OS, meaning all work is completed in the Chrome web browser. The Toshiba Chromebook 2 has a 13.3” inch screen, boots in 9 seconds, and a fully charged battery will last over 8 hours. It excels as an Internet access baseline for research, collaborative writing and publishing online. It will come with a carrying case and adapter that will connect to a display or projector.


Anyone needing more technical information is welcome to contact Tim Rocco at extension 2202 or trocco@wusd.org.


Sincerely,


Lisa Saxon                                                           Tim Rocco

Director of Educational Services                       Director Technology




Lisa Saxon
Director of Educational and Personnel Services
 
Windsor Unified School District
9291 Old Redwood Highway, Building 500
Windsor, CA  95492
(707) 837-7707

Here are your results from the contract vote:



MWE-25 yes, 8 no
WCE -23 yes  5 no
BES-24 yes  0 no
Cali-29 Yes  6 no
WMS 19 Yes  12 No
WHS 35 yes  3 No
WOA  9 Yes 0 No


164 yes  34 no


As Pete has said many times, our work this year will lead to better times ahead. We appreciate each and every one of you who have worked hard and stayed professional, despite our circumstances.

Thank you,

Your WDEA Negotiating Team