New Staff Laptops–FAQs
October 14, 2014
Tags: Lenovo, Staff, Staff Laptop
We’ve received a number of questions from staff members with regards to the new staff laptop, the Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 11e. We’ve compiled them into this list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)–and answers!
How will I know my computer from others?
Like the previous MacBooks, and like other large organizations that deploy devices, all staff members’ staff laptops look the same on the outside. Each device does have its own unique CCSD21 Asset Tag number (along with a bar code) that is on a sticker on the bottom of the laptop. Additionally, each staff member’s name is also stuck onto the bottom of the laptop.
What do I need to do in order to update software?
Just like the previous MacBooks, typically, there is nothing to do. Software updates are either completely automatic (like Chrome and Chrome apps) or performed at login, logout, restart, or shutdown automatically. It is important that you regularly shutdown and/or restart your computer in order to get all of the relevant updates.
I am a special education staff member and had Boardmaker, and now, there is no CD/DVD drive. What do I do?
School District 21 has been actively engaged with encouraging an online version of Boardmaker, and just-in-time for the deployment of new staff laptops in CCSD21, Boardmaker Online has been announced. School District 21 is purchasing Boardmaker Online accounts for staff on a school-by-school basis in line with the number of students who benefit from Boardmaker at that school. More information regarding this will be shared in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Boardmaker also remains on the iMacs that were purchased with IDEA ARRA funds in schools.
We have a DVD to show our students. How can we do that without a CD/DVD drive?
Like when School District 21 installed projectors in classrooms throughout our schools and schools purchased speakers in bulk using school funds, the same approach is being taken with regards to USB CD/DVD drives. School principals and LMC teams will take the lead on ordering these, and they will be available for check-out from the LMCs. As software and media continues to quickly move away from hardware media like CDs and DVDs and to streaming and subscriptions, in a short time, there will be even less of a need for the USB CD/DVD drives, so schools will be encouraged to purchase these conservatively.
What changes are there to policies and procedures related to the staff laptops?
There are no significant changes to policies and procedures related to staff laptops despite changes in the actual devices. School District 21 continues to install Absolute Software to remotely wipe a machine in the event that it is lost or stolen. The CCSD21-D21EA Self-Insurance Program continues to be in place. The Information Services team will continue to remotely update and support devices throughout School District 21 schools and classrooms.
Topic: Tech Tips
Each District 21 school is named after an American author, and learning and literacy is at the center of our Professional Learning Community. The Modern Pen provides a collaborative location in which District 21 teachers can come together to learn the skills that will enable their students to learn new skills and to understand concepts at an even different level than before.
Preparing all students for success
