Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper
Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper
A more flexible education and homework approach will be implemented in the Sidney Public Schools this year.
Consider if a teacher could assign a research project with a list of specific sources, sources that are primarily Internet sites. For some students, the immediate concern is they may not have a computer or if they do, what happens if they don’t have an Internet connection at home.
The Sidney Public Schools announced recently that the 1:1 Chromebook program will be implemented in the 2018-2019 school year. The Chromebook computers will be property of the school district issued to students in grades five through 12.
The 1:1 Chromebook program allows flexibility for the student and the teacher. Students are issued a Chromebook tablet computer. The student can retrieve class assignments and complete homework in the classroom or anywhere else with a wifi signal. The program also allows teachers the flexibility of downloading specific teaching material without the cost of a new book, or assigning research from a specific website or link. Also, students can complete assignments on the Chromebook without a wifi or internet, then download it to the class the next day of school.
Additionally, each computer will include filtering software that can be monitored by administrators. If a computer is flagged for use other than approved by the school, the computer is shut down and the student will be required to meet with the administrator to get it unlocked.
In March, Technology Facilitator Matt McKay said the District has about 1,006 computers.
Parents will also have the option of purchasing an insurance plan on the device for $20 per school year. The $20 covers the cost should a computer is damaged. The Chromebook will be issued with a case and charging cable. The District is considering secure charging stations that could be used to recharge computers, tablets and smart phones.
The program is underwritten in part by a $91,000 donation from Bass Pro earlier this spring.
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