Department Overview
The goal of using computers, a local area network, a wide area network, and the Internet is to bring educational resources to both students and staff and to facilitate differentiation and individual growth in technology, information gathering skills, and communication. Providing these resources is intended to promote educational excellence by linking individuals and classrooms to global resources and facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. The purpose of the technology department of Madison City Schools is to support the district's instructional programs and to facilitate the achievement of the vision to empower our students to be successful on local, national, and global levels.
The importance of technology integration is apparent throughout Madison City Schools. Teachers use state-of-the-art technology to enhance instruction and facilitate administrative tasks. Students are provided with access to computer labs, automated media centers, and computers in their classrooms. Every classroom in the school system is networked providing Internet access, online resources, and cable TV access. The video system available throughout the district provides opportunities for live broadcasts or for sharing other digital content. Most classrooms are furnished with a variety of peripheral devices including but not limited to digital cameras, document cameras, projectors, classroom performance systems, and interactive white boards and touch panels.
Vision – We will improve student achievement by providing equitable access to high quality instruction of 21st Century skills in technology-infused schools.
Mission – To provide educational opportunities capable of preparing all students to achieve their potential, to function as responsible citizens, and to continue learning through life.
Chromebook Protection Plan FAQs
-
Yes, repair allowances reset each year with the purchase of the protection plan.
-
Per board policy, all students must be issued a Chromebook by the district.
-
If the device is inspected and the damage is deemed irreparable, the service obligation switches from repair to replacement. This replacement is only covered if a covered incident caused the original damage and was not due to intentional damage, or an excluded cause (like loss or theft).
-
The Chromebooks we purchased include a case that protects the device if accidentally dropped. The Chromebooks are more rugged than an off-the-shelf model and are MilSpec MIL-STD-810G. This also includes the Google Enterprise license we are required to purchase for each Chromebook, and that license is non-transferable.
-
We provide a protective case with each device to safeguard the exterior. With proper care, these Chromebooks should remain functional until the next technology refresh. Additionally, the new Chromebook models offer improved durability compared to the previous generation.
-
No, personal Chromebooks cannot join our Google Enterprise, and therefore, students would not have access to MCS applications used for instruction. Additionally, we would have to install software on your personal device to ensure the safety of our students and the MCS network.
-
Normal wear and tear refers to the minor, cosmetic deterioration that occurs with regular, careful use over time. Items covered under normal wear and tear include:
- If the charging port stops working due to an internal fault, or the battery fails to hold any charge.
- A non-responsive keyboard, touchpad, or touchscreen is covered if the failure is due to an internal defect and was not caused by intentional damage (e.g., liquid spill, impact, or vandalism).
- An LCD screen that fails to display an image (goes black) or has unusual lines/patterns due to an internal fault is covered. This excludes issues caused by physical damage.
- A headphone jack, USB port, or other port that stops working properly due to an internal mechanical failure is covered. This excludes damage from forcing objects into the port.
- Internal components like the motherboard, processor, memory, storage (hard drive/SSD), or Wi-Fi module that stop functioning are covered.
- Issues directly related to the ChromeOS operating system (software) are covered.
Examples of damage that are NOT covered (and may incur a repair fee) include:
- Cracked or smashed screens.
- Liquid spills on the keyboard or chassis.
- Bent or broken ports from excessive force.
- Hinges broken from being forced past their limit.
- Deep scratches, dents, or broken casing from dropping or impact.
-
Lost and stolen devices are not covered by the protection plan. If a Chromebook is stolen, Madison City Schools requests that a copy of the police report be provided to the district, and we will work with your insurance company to recover the device or charges incurred.
-
You have the option to accept or decline, but your student will receive the new Chromebook during the fall semester of 2025 per board policy. Those who do not opt in to the protection plan by October 17th will be presumed to have opted out and will be responsible for damages that fall outside of normal wear and tear.
District Technology Committee
Madison City Schools has a District Technology Committee comprised of stakeholders including administrators, teachers, parents, and students. The DTC consists of representatives from all schools as well as varied grade levels, subject areas, and specializations. This advisory committee meets regularly and addresses technology planning, curriculum integration, staff development, resource allocation, and need identification. Additionally, this team works each year to develop the system's technology plan.