Overview of Educational Technology at CCLCS
The Lighthouse School has 119 computers connected to the internet via a local ethernet network and DSL. Over half of these are laptop computers with wireless connection to the LAN. File sharing allows students and staff to access and print their work from nearly any machine. Our student to computer ratio is 2.4 to 1. Students and their parents are required to sign our acceptable use policy before using the school's computer equipment.
Our technology is based on the Macintosh operating system, with 97% running OS 10, and the remaining 3% running Windows (the MacWorld Guide Travel freely between the Mac and Windows worlds is recommended for those who use both platforms). Half of our computers are less than 3 years old, and 28% are over 5 years old.
We feel that we do a pretty good job of integrating technology into our curriculum. While we believe that computers are valuable educational tools, we recognize that technology is ONLY a tool.
The school does not presently have cable (for television). We have scanners, digital still- and video-cameras, and this website where we post notable information (reminders for major projects, tests, sports matches, field trips, the acceptable use policy, etc).
Long-range Technology Plan
Acceptable Use of Educational Technology
All students and staff at Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School will have access to technology as part of their learning environment. It is expected that Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School participants will abide by this Acceptable Use Policy when using Computers and other technology at the school.
Internet: Students may use the Internet for educational purposes only AND only with the permission of their classroom teachers - downloading, email and instant messaging are allowed only with direct teacher supervision. All users are expected to give credit for any work (graphics or text) taken from the Internet. Students may not, at any time, type their home address or telephone number to anyone on the Internet.
Hardware: All users are expected to treat computers with the care they deserve. Users agree not to physically tamper with computers and computer equipment. All school rules regarding vandalism apply to computers as well. Students should not move or unplug computer cables without teacher permission.
Software: Students may not load software, GAMES or APPLICATIONS, onto CCLCS computers. Installation or removal of software should be done only by staff after technology team notification. Software copyrights are respected by CCLCS; software piracy is prohibited.
Compact Disks: Students may not insert CDs or DVDs into CCLCS computers without teacher approval.
Electronic Communication: Texting and wireless phone calls are prohibited in school and on school grounds (this includes walking to and from the Annex). Phone calls may be made, with permission, from the office.
Privacy: Computer files belonging to other students or teachers are the same as property. Therefore, any tampering with files or projects belonging to another person will be regarded as stealing. Users are expected to respect the privacy of files belonging to the school, teachers, and students.
Any student found tampering with computer hardware or software could be liable for repair. Such repairs are often expensive. Students who violate this Acceptable Use Policy may lose computer privileges for a period of time.