According to the Michigan Department of Education, “A goal of No Child Left Behind is that schools will assist every student in crossing the digital divide by ensuring that every student is technologically literate by the time the student finishes eighth grade, regardless of the student's race, ethnicity, gender, family income, geographic location, or disability." The Michigan Department of Education defines technology literacy as “...the ability to responsibly use appropriate technology to communicate, solve problems, and access, manage, integrate, evaluate, and create information to improve learning in all subject areas and to acquire lifelong knowledge and skills in the 21st century."
In accordance with these goals, GA has made technology an integral part of instruction. This year, thanks to the generous support of the GAP, IT upgrades have been installed throughout the building, including expanded wireless service, Chromebooks, iPads, laptops, and hubs in every room. Our computer lab has space for thirty students. We are currently using Dell computers running the Windows 10 operating system and using the Microsoft Office suite of products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher). Students will also be using Google for Education and other Web 2.0 tools that will enhance their ability to create, collaborate, and share digital products.
Teachers may sign out computer lab during times when class is not in session. Please ensure that students log off, push in chairs, and hang up headsets before leaving the room.
For the most part, the computer lab is used for educational purposes (research, skill building, completing an assignment, etc.). Classes can earn a "Lab Party" for good behavior during computer class. On those days, certain fun apps may be used.
Students can access the Internet in order to obtain information needed to complete research projects or other learning activities. The use of the Internet is a privilege. Students are expected to respect the rights of every user by acting responsibly and ethically while utilizing this information service. Students are asked to review and sign the Internet User Contract in the beginning of the school year. Any violation of the contract will result in the withdrawal of the Internet user privilege. (GA Student Handbook 2014-15)