2014 - 2019
District
Technology
Plan
Effective
July 1, 2014 – June 30, 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 …………………………………………………MISSION & VISION STATEMENT
Section 2 ……………………………... GENERAL INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND
Section 3 ……………………………………………….. . NEEDS ASSESSMENT/GOALS
Section 4 ………………………………………………………………….. FUNDING PLAN
Section 5 ………………………………………....TECHNOLOGY ACQUISITION PLAN
Section 6 ……………………………………………………………………………. ACCESS
Section 7 …………………………………………………………. USER SUPPORT PLAN
Section 8 ………………………………………………………... STAFF TRAINING PLAN
Section 9 ……………………………………………………… PROGRAM EVALUATION
Section 10 ……………………………………………… E-RATE PLANNING CRITERIA
Appendix A …………………………………… PREMISE NETWORK WIRING SPECS
Appendix B …………………………………………. ACCEPTABLE USE GUIDELINES
Appendix C ……………………………………………………….. WEBPAGE GUIDELINES
SECTION 1
MISSION & VISION STATEMENT
1.1 Manatee County School District Technology Mission Statement
Supporting the technology needs of the District so strategic objectives can be achieved.
1.2 Information Technology Strategic Plan 2014-19
If Manatee County Public Schools is going to lead the pack in K-12 education, we must first reaffirm our commitment to
organizational accountability. Accountability must be fundamentally engrained into the culture of our district. Every
student, teacher, principal, educational support staff member, senior leader, Superintendent, and Board member has to be
accountable for his or her contribution to the educational process. As stewards of public funds, we have a requirement to
leverage every cent to provide our students with the best educational experience. Declining resources cannot hinder our
success. We have to accept the challenge and improve the way we do business to improve the quality of all of our
services. How much can we improve Manatee County Public Schools for the benefit of all our students? The answer will
be the measure of our success.
Change is difficult in any organization. What compounds the problem is our lack of solid foundations upon which to
build. We have discovered that MCPS must essentially rebuild our house on solid foundations. Those solid foundations
are reflected in our Focus Areas for the Operational Goal:
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Organizational Performance Management
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Data-Driven Decision Making
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Quality Management
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Process Improvement
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Strategic Alignment
This may seem like a monumental task, but the benefit of building from the foundation up creates an opportunity to make
sure the structure is sound. We will use data and Performance Management to constantly monitor the integrity of our
district. Process improvement and quality management will allow us to deliver our services from teaching math to
creating a balanced budget with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness. Strategic alignment ensures that all our
resources, people, and efforts are working toward a common goal.
The mission of the Manatee County School District is to inspire our students with a passion for learning, empowered to
pursue their dreams confidently and creatively while contributing to our community, nation, and world.
1.3 Evaluation of Current Technology
The Information Technology (IT) Department is reviewing the hardware and software vital to the successful operation of
the District. IT has developed standards for equipment procurement, and is implementing a hardware refresh program.
The Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Student Information Systems (SIS) are being evaluated for effectiveness and
accuracy. Additional initiatives are on-going to promote single sign-on capabilities, performance based evaluations, a
learning management system and e-learning. Our network infrastructure is being reviewed to ensure we can meet the
requirements of new technology. These are necessary to build the foundation needed to derive performance metrics.
SECTION 2
GENERAL INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND
2.1 District Profile
MANATEE COUNTY DEMOGRAPHICS: The Manatee County School District is located on
the west-central coast of the state of Florida, with the central administrative operations located
in Bradenton. Bradenton is the largest city and county seat, halfway between the Tampa – St.
Petersburg area and Sarasota, Florida. The Manatee County School District currently focuses
its educational efforts on over 45,000 students K - 12 in 53 schools, including alternative
middle and high schools, as well as, a vocational technical center, distributed throughout a 900
square mile county service area.
The local economy is based on five main economic factors: retirement, government, farming,
tourism, and service industries. With our Gulf beaches and exceptional year-round climate,
significant local revenues are generated by tourism and related service business. The industrial
base is varied and consists primarily of small to mid-size companies with the exception of the
area’s largest business employer, Tropicana Industries. The school system is the largest
employer with over 7,000 employees. Farming of tomatoes, oranges and a variety of
agricultural products remains a significant part of the county economy and accou nts for a
significant migrant farming population both in the community and the schools. The service
economy accounts for nearly 30 percent of the area’s employment providing food service,
maintenance, landscaping, banking and retail operations.
2.2 Technology Planning Process
2.2.1 District Technology Plan
The office of the Chief Information Technology Officer (CITO) develops long-range technology
plans for the entire district. The new strategic planning process is aligning department efforts
with overall district goals endorsed by the School Board. The CITO must review all projects
that impact all technology.
2.2.2 School Improvement Plans (SIP) and School Technology Plans
All schools prepare their own SIPs based upon an analysis of the available data. All SIPs are
required to reflect the mission and objectives approved by the Board. As part of the strategic
planning process, plans for how to leverage technology to improve student achievement will
be articulated.
2.2.3 English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)/ESE
Technology can be, and is, used in various ways to support the Exceptional Student Education
and ESOL programs. A networked Individual Education Plan (IEP) that can be accessed at both
the school and district level by appropriate personnel has been implemented. The student’s IEP
will also be transferred electronically to follow a student from school to school within the
district. Certain information necessary for FTE reporting will be pulled directly from the
student’s IEP into the student information system. This will enable teachers and administrators
to more easily monitor and assess the ESE student’s progress, prevent lapses in services, and
provide up-to-date information in the student system. This is an important feature in a county
with a high mobility rate.
2.3 Adult Literacy
Manatee Technical Institute (MTI) currently provides adult literacy programs at the main
campus and has historically provided programs at off-campus locations such as Jobs Etc.,
Goodwill, and the Manatee County Jail. Several school sites in various parts of the county, and
sites in conjunction with the Seasonal Farm Workers program also offer adult literacy programs.
Instruction is provided in both instructor-led and computer-based formats. MTI provides adult
literacy volunteer tutoring to any registered student as well. The tutoring program serves
approximately 75 AGE students each year along with a number of PSAV students from
programs ranging from Criminal Justice to Health Science.
SECTION 3
NEEDS ASSESSMENT/GOALS
3.1 Process for Determining Needs
The office of the Chief Information Technology Officer (CITO) develops long-range technology
plans for the entire district. The new strategic planning process is aligning department efforts
with overall district goals endorsed by the School Board. The CITO must review all projects
that impact all technology. As projects are reviewed, they are prioritized and placed on the
budget plan for potential funding. A series of reviews are conducted during the budget process
and projects may be cut, moved out on the timeline, or be asked to reduce their funding request.
Once funded, the staff involved in implementing the project provides status reports to the CITO.
The key in this process is to allocate resources to projects/activities/processes that are aligned
with the goals of the school district.
The Professional Development department conducts a yearly online training need s assessment
that includes a section for technology training. The results from the survey guide priority
technology training in the following year.
3.2 Infrastructure
3.2.1 Data Network
1. All schools in the district are networked and have equitable levels of computers and
software. Schools with multiple buildings or multiple communication closets within the
same building communicate with each other using 1Gbps or 10Gbps fiber switches and
have 10/100 Mbps or 10/100/1000 Mbps switched, twisted pair connections to the desktop.
Every space occupied by staff has at least one data drop outlet with two or more Ethernet
ports wired with Cat 5E cables at a minimum. One of those ports is generally used for a
networked printer.
2. Classrooms have at least two data outlets. If there are more than three computers in a
classroom, five or eight port Ethernet switches are used to share a single drop with multiple
computers. Computer labs are generally wired with one data drop for each computer in the
lab. Portables are connected to the main buildings with fiber optic cables and equipped
with 1Gbps uplinks and have 10/100 Mbps switched twisted pair switches.
3. Wireless network coverage is necessary for the effective deployment and use of
wireless laptop computers. All existing sites have full wireless coverage and all new
construction includes wired and wireless topologies incorporated into the building
specifications.
4. Fifty (50) school sites are connected to Manatee County’s School Support Center (SSC)
Administration building with 10 gig fiber optic communication lines. Forty two (42) of
these sites are connected bi-directionally in four (4) separate fiber rings, each site
containing twenty four (24) strands of dark fiber. The other eight (8) sites are
connected with a single 10 gig connection to the SSC and have 12 strands of dark fiber.
There are three (3) administrative sites that are also connected to the SSC via dual 10
gig fiber rings. The entire fiber optic system is subterranean, owned and maintained by
the school district.
5. Two (2) school sites are connected via Telecom 100 Mbps fiber connections. One (1)
school site is connected via Telecom 10 Mbps fiber connection. Two (2) contracted school
sites are connected via 1.54 Mbps T1 lines and one contracted school site is connected via
5 Mbps fiber connection. All of the above site’s data connections terminate into a router at
the SSC building.
6. Premise Network Wiring System Specifications are included in Appendix A.
3.2.2 Internet Access
1. The districts central servers and Internet services are located in the district’s School
Support Center (SSC) building. A central firewall system provides secure Internet
connections. The Internet gateway is a 1000 Mbps circuit monitored by The
Department of Management Services.
2. The district filtering servers are on the inside of the firewall with content filtering
provided by the Phantom Technology iBoss filter system. All access to the Internet is
directed through the filters without exception.
3. An Intranet is set up inside the firewall for use by all sites. The email system, with 6,000
seats, is for district personnel only and is provided by First Class from Open Text. The
district is in the process of sun setting this email system and implementing Microsoft
Office 365 for both staff and students.
4. E-Rate funds have been awarded to the district annually since inception of the program.
5. Initially, the internal connections funding was high, but that has changed as the district
finished building networks at all the schools. E-rate now mainly supports Internet access and
telecommunications services.
3.2.3 Telephone and Intercom
1. All classrooms have telephone and intercom access. The phone systems are all digital
switches, integrated with the Bogen PA systems. A three year plan to replace aging
telephone switches with newer models increasing the districts voice over IP service will
begin this year. When completed, all schools will have telephone service within the district
over our fiber network.
3.2.4 Instructional Television Network (EDV TV)
1. The district has its own educational channel, EDV TV, which goes out to the community
over both Bright House and Verizon television networks. The EDV TV studios are
located on the Professional Support Center (PSC) campus.
2.
All schools are capable of receiving four Instructional Television Fixed Service
(ITFS) channels. Additionally, all schools have television distribution systems and
television production studios, enabling the creation and broadcasting of instructional
programs to all classrooms. Cable television is also distributed to classrooms as
requested by teachers.
3. The district television station, EDV TV, provides production equipment and professional
level studio for district productions. The system provides the district with emergency
response communication to all schools and classrooms. Additionally, the ability to air
approximately 2,000 video titles, and to broadcast satellite-received programming, training
activities, and special events, creates a level of equity to video resources among al l schools
in the district. Manatee County School Board meetings are broadcast live to citizens over
this channel.
4. The Broadcast Systems department supports microwave broadcasting equipment, analog
and digital studio production equipment, and a variety of video projectors, DVD and CD
players and other classroom instructional electronics.
3.2.5 Central Computer System
1. Several mission critical software systems are maintained on highly reliable mid -range
computer systems. The FOCUS student information system, JDEdwards financial and
human resources system, payroll, and some minor applications, are run on a new IBM
iSeries computer system. A smaller iSeries 270, installed in 2003, is used as a development
and testing site for the systems analysts and programmers. A contract with IBM provides an
emergency hot site in case of a disaster that would disable the systems.
2. District-wide applications are maintained on an IBM iSeries system, Apple OS X servers,
Windows servers and Red Hat servers. A few examples are the current First Class email
system, Focus Student System, Internet filtering and reporting system, and Internet
domain name servers. All are housed at the district level in a secure computer room. This
computer room is equipped with a large-scale battery backup system and gas fire protection
system as well as being secured with a card access system for access by authorized staff
only.
3.3 Technology Goals
3.3.1 Short Term Goals (1-2 years)
Goal 1: Facilitate the effective use of technology in teaching and learning by providing
significant capital outlay technology fund allocations to all schools each year.
School Technology Upgrades – The District is in the process of developing a sustainable
hardware refresh plan on a 3-5 year replacement schedule. Student enrollment level at each site
will be used to establish minimum needs for each site. Systems are and will be a mix of
desktop lab systems, desktop staff systems and laptops for teachers, staff and students.
Goal 2: Improve the productivity of district level staff by providing more powerful
technology resources. Several new and ongoing projects are focused on staff
productivity and are listed below:
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Replacement cycle for equipment
Electronic forms Implementation
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Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system
Professional Development System
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Web-based Human Resource application system
Hosted Learning Management System (LMS) to increase student achievement
assessment and accountability.
Copy Center realignment
Document Management System (combines three current systems into one
solution)
Implementation of IT Service Desk software system
Upgrade of the JDEdwards business system to Oracle
Implementation of Single Sign On Solution (SSO) for increased student and
staff access to resources which will increase productivity
Implementation of new web-based tools - Microsoft Office 365 (MSO 365) for
all staff and students
Goal 3: Improve decision making at the school and classroom level by providing access for all
teachers and administrators to pertinent student data in a timely manner.
The district’s student information system, Focus was implemented in the Fall of 2011. Success
continues to depend upon a very high level of support and training from IT (Information
Technology). The system includes a student scheduler, attendance software, an online grade
book, student discipline database, a parent web portal, an e-Learning system, and cafeteria
software. Additionally, it facilitates ad hoc and state reporting.
Goal 4: Enhance teaching, learning, and training by maintaining and expanding the resources
provided through media services instructional television.
Instructional Television/Media Services Project – Replacement equipment and software with
expanded capabilities will be purchased for ITV along with online media resources for teachers
and students.
Goal 5: Meet the changing needs of students by upgrading vocational education labs at the
schools.
Applied Technology Adult Education (ATAE) Equipment Project – The Adult, Technical, and
Career Education department is administering funds for upgrading business and other
vocational education labs at selected schools.
Goal 6: Facilitate the effective use of technology in teaching and learning by expanding the
bandwidth available to schools and classrooms in support of activities such as
distance learning, Internet research, and streaming video.
School LAN Upgrades – All schools are equipped with switched 10/100 Mbps Ethernet switches
with 1000 Mbps fiber uplinks to each sites MDF room. All schools have been fully equipped
with 802.11a/b/g/n wireless networks. The district will continue to plan upgrades to the school
networks as technologies improve and funding allows.
WAN access - All but three schools are on a four ring district owned fiber optic system
connecting to the central data center at 10Gbps speed.
Goal 7: Improve telephone communications for teachers and administrative staff.
Telephone System Upgrade –All schools are equipped with a standard digital telephone
switching system with an integrated voice mail system. New standardized public address systems
that integrate with the phone switch have been added at all sites. A three year plan to replace
aging telephone switches with newer models increasing the districts voice over IP service will
continue this year. When completed, all schools will have telephone service within the district
over our fiber network.
3.3.2 Long Term Goals (3-5 years)
Goal 1: Provide reliable fundamental infrastructure for all IT Services to leverage the
following:
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Bandwidth per staff & student
Number of days network usage exceeds 80% of capacity
Network costs per staff & student
Average age of computers
Ratio of computers to students
Goal 2: Develop and implement IT business practices that drive procurement, implementation
and utilization of current, industry standard processes and applications to determine:
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IT spend per staff / student
IT savings (IT work which positively impacts the bottom line)
IT expense as a percentage of Total District Funding
Uptime % for business critical systems
Utilization of key IT managed resources
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TCIT (Total Cost of IT) includes all costs associated with building, running and
operating the IT environment and includes workforce costs, license costs,
hardware costs, software costs, systems costs, outsourcing costs, portion of HR
costs, etc. (In other words, more than just the IT budget)
Return on IT Investment = Net Operating Profit / TCIT
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Goal 3: Staff and Student Development / Training.
Create a process framework to elicit and document Training Requirements at the Divisional
(Academic and Operations) level, as well as Business Unit level, that IT shall support.
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Percentage of Requirements Documented
Percentage of Documented Requirements Funded to be Satisfied
Percentage of Documented, Funded Requirements Satisfied
Goal 4: Provide technology support staff and systems that minimize downtime and enhance the
user experience.
As the use of technology increases, and the volume of equipment and software systems also
increases, adequate support must be provided and realignment of technical support staff will be
required. Increasing the technology skills of every user is also very important to reduce the
need for assistance with low-level problems.
SECTION 4
FUNDING PLAN
4.1 Major Funding Sources
The majority of the funds utilized for the acquisition and support of technology come from within the
district. Many of the figures provided below must be considered estimates as it is difficult to obtain
precise figures when multiple funding sources are involved, when technology costs can vary, and
when projecting into the future. The following are descriptions of the funding sources along with
activities these funds support.
4.1.1 District Operating Budget
The staff costs for Information Technology (IT), Instructional Television, Electronics Repair, the
Adult, Career, and Technology Education Department, and schools that have allocated Technology
Contact positions, are funded from the operating budget. Maintenance fees for district level software
systems, and the cost for leasing telephone and data lines are also a part of the operating budget. A
relatively small amount of operating funds are used for software, technology related supplies, and for
some non-capitalized equipment. These operating funds are considered recurring funds.
2012-13
$7,097,231
2013-14
$6,675,731
2014-15
$7,500,000 projected
4.1.2 District Capital Outlay Funds (millage funds and sales tax)
The majority of the funds used to purchase technology equipment and to build technology
infrastructure come from these funds. Capital Outlay Funds are considered recurring funds.
2012-13
$2,849,330
2013-14
$3,017,266
2014-15
$3,603,501 projected
4.1.3 Technology Funding from outside the district
E-rate funding – the district has successfully applied for E-rate federal funds for the last sixteen
years. The Priority 1 funding has supported the leasing of telephone and data lines, cellular
communications and web hosting services. The Priority 2 funding has supported both data network
switches and telephone PBX servers. Some school server needs have been met with E-rate dollars as
well. Since actual billing is not totally predictable, the E-Rate maximum awarded is not always
expended. The figures below show the total maximum allocation for that year.
2012-13
$ 1,358,014
2013-14
$ 861,208
2014-15
$ 933,713 requested
IDEA – the Exceptional Student Education department manages these funds, parts of which are used
to provide technology resources to students with special needs.
2012-13
$ 534,012
2013-14
$ 265,000
2014-15
$ 265,000 projected
Other – There are many other sources of funding used for technology including various grants, school
internal accounts, school discretionary FF&E, various training funds, SAI, SIP, Perkins, and Florida
School Recognition funds, etc.. These expenditures vary widely from year to year so projected figures
are not provided here. (For Example: Farmworkers grant $350.00 and Rowlett Charter
Implementation $3,300 for technology.)
4.2 Budget
The Information Technology (IT) Department will work within its given budget to support the
technology needs of our district. The projected funding for network/hardware support staff, hardware
and software maintenance, capital outlay for equipment, and funding for software acquisition should
meet minimum needs for technology in our District. (See projections in 4.1). One area with the
greatest need for increased funding is the hardware refresh initiative so we can replace aging
equipment and provide better support to our schools during their online testing.
4.3 Planned Technology Projects 2014-2015
Below is a list of the Information Technology (IT) Department’s recommended projects to be funded
by capital outlay dollars. Although this list shows projected expenditures for technology, it does
reflect the ongoing district commitment to implementing technology across the organization.
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School Phone System Upgrades - $150,000 - Continue replacement cycle for existing
phone/voicemail system with advanced unified systems. Priority 2 E-Rate Funding was
unavailable in FY 2013-2014. The district has applied for E-Rate funding for three school sites
that were planned in FY 2013 and three school sites planned for FY 2014. The total number of
school sites requested for E-Rate FY 17 (2014-2015) is six.
Wireless School Network System - $29,717 - Install wireless access points in schools.
New/Rebuild construction projects have wireless access included in construction plans. Added in
2010-11 is the development of a guest network at select district sites.
WAN/LAN Hardware - $74,573 - Purchase of school based network equipment, wiring requests,
routers, etc. Pay for repair of existing data infrastructure and meet the need for additional wiring
requests at school sites.
Disaster Recovery Site Infrastructure - $130,000
District Web Project - $136,000 - Continue the implementation of the District’s web presence for
department and schools.
Stoneware – $166,945 (This will allow our district to move to a Single Sign-on environment).
Desktop Refresh - $1,200,000 (To initiate the 4 year desktop refresh program for all schools and
departments. The district will need to fund a 25% refresh of computers each year).
MS365 - $330,000 ($300,000 came from the RTT funding) (Purchase Microsoft 365 for use by
all students and district employees so regardless if they are at school/work or at home, they can
access the information they need with a standard toolset that is up to date.
HP 3Par - $98,000
Document Management - $175,000 (To consolidate multiple document management systems into
one system that will allow us to work more efficiently and reduce our printing costs)
Learning Management System - $250,000 (To engage in an LMS for student benchmark testing
and assessments including analytical reporting.
Update District ERP System - $545,765 (To migrate from the district’s JDE World Software to
the Oracle Enterprise One system. This will enhance abilities to include health and safety
incident reporting, self-service module, and much more)
e-Learning System - $350,000
e-Recruit System - $267,501
Total Request for FY 2014-2015
$3,603,501
SECTION 5
TECHNOLOGY ACQUISITION PLAN
5.1 Identifying Appropriate Technologies
The district is in the preliminary stages of identifying computer assets at all district sites. The
process will include; system age identification, quantity of systems per site, student counts per
site and staff counts per site. From this, a template will be formulated for a hardware refresh
plan that will replace all computers at sites with the oldest technology first. The goal will be to
implement a 3-5 year rolling replacement plan that will ensure equitable up to date technology
at all sites.
Alignment to district goals, district strategic plan and standardization is a requirement.
Standards have been set for computer brands, printers, networking equipment, telephone
equipment, and public address systems.
5.2 Acquisition to Meet Widest Range of Student Needs
The Waterford Reading Program is a focus for several elementary schools, particularly Title I
schools. SuccessMaker is a program that was initially implemented at all Title 1 schools
beginning 2011-12 and has been substantially expanded over the past year. Additional software
applications are continually reviewed by district leadership for effectiveness and targeted
implementation.
Education Options is a software system that covers the basic middle and high school
curriculum. The district has a license for use in all schools, but this program is primarily fo r use
by Alternative Education students, including those restricted to learning from their homes. It
is accessible through the district network and through the Internet.
Schools have chosen programs like Star Reading, Star Math, Accelerated Reader, Compass
Learning, Classroom Works, and others, that address diagnostic/prescriptive needs, track
student progress, and provide reports for teachers and parents. Great progress is being made in
the use of project-based learning activities that address higher level thinking skills and
encourage students to work in teams. Students from the elementary grades through high
school are doing creative video editing and multimedia presentations in many of these
projects.
5.3 Acquisition Timetable
Beginning in 2009, the district began to centralize the purchase of computers and servers at all
school sites. This implementation plan was to provide greater standardization and ensure all
schools meet the district minimum standards of 3 to 1 student to computer ratio and no systems
older than 5 years. Due to budget shortfalls, this has not been possible over the last few years.
Starting with the current budget year 13-14, a hardware refresh plan is being formulated and
funding has been allocated that will reinstitute this goal. While this multi-year refresh plan is
being implemented, it will require the relocation of newer systems from sites that are part of the
refresh program to other sites around the district until all sites are updated on a rolling refresh
plan.
5.4 Acquisition Procedures
The district has developed procedures and standards for technology acquisition. Standards and
procedures are reviewed each year for potential revision. Key examples follow.
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A standard network configuration is used district-wide for all new construction and
network upgrade projects.
The item master in the district purchasing system defines the specific pieces of
equipment that can be purchased.
Electronics Repair staff recommends the AV equipment list (televisions, VCRs,
projectors, etc.) and Instructional Television recommends the video cameras and editing
equipment for the item master. Changes are made each year based on repair history and
price changes.
All servers are managed by the Data Center Operations team and they determine
appropriate operating system and utility program upgrades.
Support agreements for the IBM mid-range computer systems. All the district-wide
servers in the Data Center Operations center and all software running on those systems
are managed by IT. All servers are purchased with three-year on-site support.
Staff must submit work orders to request services from the various IT teams. By using
specific codes developed for those work orders, an analysis of types of problems at
various sites is possible. That analysis will be used in the revision of technology
standards and maintenance procedures.
5.5 Guidance for Decision-Making
The IT department provides guidance and direction to all schools and departments on the
purchase and implementation of technology. The primary gate-keeping process is done
through the purchasing system item master. No new technology items can be added to the
item master without the IT Department’s CITO approval.
All technology initiatives are reviewed by the IT CITO prior to acquisition. The goal is to
standardize and get the most cost-effective solutions for district initiatives.
SECTION 6
ACCESS
6.1 Equitable Access
Equitable access to telecommunications and other technologies to support teaching and
learning is accomplished by:
1. The district has begun evaluation of existing school computer systems in preparation for a
hardware refresh program. This program will use student enrollment numbers to determine
minimum system requirements at each school site to support teaching, learning and testing.
2. Depending on available funding, the district is looking at a 3-5 year hardware refresh plan
based on the data from the above statement. This will provide a level playing field for all
sites.
3. The district ESE department responds to requests from school staff and parents for
assistive technologies. Laptop computers and special input/output devices are provided as
appropriate after reviewing each individual case. Special software is also provided when
needed.
4. All sites have Internet access to provide resources such as our district website, FIRN, and a
variety of instructionally appropriate sites to support teaching and learning. A user friendly
web page/management system called Edline has been purchased, allowing teachers and staff
to easily post lesson plans, homework assignments and other appropriate information that
can be accessed by students and parents to support and extend the learning process.
5. The Blackboard Connect phone notification call out system deployed in 2006-07 provides
direct communications to staff and parents. The system reports student absences and
delivers important school or district information to a select group of recipients. In an effort
to reach all parents and community members, the Manatee Educational Television station
broadcasts a variety of programs. School Board meetings are also broadcast live bi-monthly in
an effort to keep the community informed.
6. Several external instructional resources are available to teachers, parents and students.
These include: SIRS, Groliers, Educational Options, FCAT Explorer, Connected University
and the district web site.
7. Access to information for decision-making by teachers and administrators is a district
priority. The Focus student system has been implemented to provide all decision makers
with access to appropriate data. A series of real-time reports on student performance have
been developed for teachers, principals, guidance counselors, and district administrators
using ReportsNow, and an in-house developed tool called Quick Query. Gradebook and
Attendance are now provided to all levels K-12.
6.2 Acceptable Use Guidelines
District Acceptable Use Guidelines have been written, approved by the School Board and have
been signed by the employees of the School Board of Manatee County. The document protects
the confidentiality of students, intellectual property rights, licensing a greements and addresses
the legal/ethical standards for sharing resources with other educational entities (Appendix B).
A set of Webpage Guidelines have been developed to provide guidance to all sites publishing
web-based documents. These guidelines are designed to keep students focused on instructional
uses of web pages and to protect the integrity of the district (Appendix C).
6.3 Technology Protection Measures
The district’s Intranet is secured from the Internet with an enterprise level redundant firewa ll
system that is monitored and updated on a regular basis. Behind the firewall, multiple Phantom
iBoss Web Filtering servers intercept all Internet traffic. iBoss is used by a large number of
Florida districts because it provides a high level of customiza ble filtering options.
The filter administrator has the ability to add or remove sites to the block list. This is useful in
the event sites are being blocked that really should not be or in the event a site is discovered
that has not been categorized by iBoss yet. If staff members need a site opened or blocked, they
send an e-mail request to Filter Requests for review. If there is any question about the
appropriateness of a site, the filter administrator contacts upper level administration for guidance.
Phantom iBoss filtering system provides the district with excellent content filtering with
minimal need of district level tech support.
Benefits include:
1. Creation of flexible internet use policies allows for choice between Allow, Block by content type,
Block by Bandwidth and Block by File Type.
2. The district sets policies for file types and over 80 application protocols, including email, file
transfer, remote access, streaming media, instant messaging (IM), and peer-to-peer (P2P)
protocols.
3. All of these options help control Internet bandwidth use of non-educational content.
4. The district can set policies based on users or groups and can use MS Active Directory to monitor
user’s activity.
5. Powerful reporting tools analyze and track internet use throughout the school district.
Specific information can be provided to administrators who suspect inappropriate usage.
Email Filtering:
The district uses a product called Symantec Messaging Gateway to block spam and malware from
staff email. Over 71,000 spam emails are being blocked each day. All staff email is being archived
in compliance with federal rulings regarding evidence discovery.
Other Security Measures:
The district network is monitored and managed using a variety of tools.
These
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
include:
Solar Winds – monitors network switches and routers, reports problems
HP Procuve Manager: switch configuration
AirWave – manages and monitors all the wireless access points in the district
LanSurveyor – monitors bandwidth usage across the WAN
Encryption – used on all data transfers outside the district and on all email
Standard password procedures to properly authenticate system users
SECTION 7
USER SUPPORT P LAN
Network and Classroom Support
7.1 Network Management / End User Support
7.1.1 Technology Support
Providing adequate technology support for teachers and students has been identified as a focus
area in the district’s strategic plan. An Instructional Technology Plan has been developed to lay a
solid foundation for digital conversion so that our district is positioned favorably to leverage
technology to transform teaching and learning. Below is a link to the district’s Instructional
Technology website:
http://www.manateeschools.net/pages/SDMC/Departments/District_Support_Services/Information_Te
chnology/IT
7.1.2 The Technology and Learning Strategy
The Instructional Technology Plan is aligned with the District’s Mission, Vision, Core Values and
Priorities. Mission: Manatee County Public Schools will educate and develop all students for their
success tomorrow. Vision: Manatee County Public Schools will be an exemplary student-focused
school system that develops lifelong learning.
7.1.3 WAN Support
The district Wide Area Network (WAN), and all of the site Local Area Networks (LANs), are
supported by the Network Services Team. The team members travel to the schools and
administrative sites to handle network issues, and they are involved in new construction or
technology retrofit projects.
Network management tools have been implemented that enable a greater degree of remote
monitoring and problem solving. The priority for work orders is: district -wide failure of a
network service, school-wide network failure, network failure in a portion of a school, server
failure and last, workstation problems.
The network team supports the Internet service, the district email system, several district -wide
applications, all network hubs, switches, and connections, all computer servers, and soft ware
problems on workstations.
A computer management system called FileWave has been deployed and remotely installs
software updates, automatically restores software to a predetermined configuration, and to
manage inventory control and software licensing issues. Other tools to assist in monitoring,
managing, and securing the district network are already in place (SolarWinds, LAN Surveyor,
IronMail, etc.).
7.2 Equipment Maintenance/Replacement
7.2.1 Computer Repair
Several teams maintain technology in the district. The operation of the network team has been
described in section 7.1.4. The work order system is used to assign team members. Some
funding is available to the team for repairs beyond their scope and to help with overloads. The
team is working at maximum capacity as the district now has over 45,000 computers. Any piece
of equipment that has a cost to repair that is above 60 percent of its value is declared nonrepairable and is categorized as surplus or used for parts. The district’s future vision is to
explore leasing of computers to eliminate high repair costs and enable current technical staff to
address on-site school based technical needs.
7.2.2 Telephone Systems, Public Address Systems and UPS’s
Three technicians provide district wide telephone PBX system support and maintenance with
assistance from local contractors when needed. Currently the district has 60 Telephone PBX
Systems and over 6000 handsets. These three technicians maintain all of the Public Address
(PA/Intercom) systems district wide, including all performance sound systems in auditoriums,
cafeterias, and athletic stadiums/fields. One additional technician services and maintains over
2,000 Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS) and assists with servicing all PA Systems and
outdoor speaker replacements.
7.2.3 Electronic Video Repair
A two-person Electronic Repair department maintains other types of electronic equipment,
including video gear. They also outsource some equipment, like small video cameras, to meet
demand. The instructional television specialist also assists by working with schools to support
their video production studios, which are provided in all schools.
7.2.4 Computer Equipment Replacement
Over the past ten years computer equipment has been replaced on an annual basis and was
generally the responsibility of each school. Funding sources detailed in Section 4 are used to
replace non-repairable or outdated equipment. Equipment that is stolen or damaged by
lightning is replaced through the Risk Management department that has a budgeted fund for
such occurrences. The Central Computer Purchase funding is the major source for equipment
replacement. Every year schools also receive funding based on student enrollment at that time.
Both funds are used to replace hardware and software.
Currently Network Services manages the replacement of equipment at the administrative sites.
Departments make requests using an on-line Equipment Replacement form. The form details the
equipment they currently have, the applications they use daily, and on that basis, Network
Services prioritizes the requests and replaces equipment as funding allows. The team
standardizes computer systems each year at two levels, for both desktops and laptops, based on
the computing power needed to run their applications. All systems are set up with desktop
security and virus scanning software.
A new district vision of leasing computers is currently being explored in hopes of reducing the
ever increasing in-house repair costs. This leasing alternative will allow current staff to assist
schools on-site with technology troubleshooting and providing solutions.
SECTION 8
STAFF TRAINING PLAN
8.1 Increasing the Use of Technology in Classrooms and Media Centers
8.1.1 Instructional Technology Department
Instructional Technology provides leadership and support for increasing capacity at
schools to promote the integration of technology into teaching and learning.
Preparing students for THEIR success tomorrow requires information and communications
technologies (ICT) skills. It's not enough to support the early adopters of technology. A
standard for technical proficiency for students, teachers, staff and leaders must be articulated
and accompanied by an expectation for continuous improvement. In order to ascertain
improvement, standards must be identified against which performance is measured and
incorporated into not only the curriculum, but also the hiring plans for prospective employees
and the performance evaluations and development plans for existing employees. Professional
Development must be continually designed, developed and delivered in support of achieving
this goal, requiring the expertise of Instructional Technology Specialists.
8.1.2 Technology Integration Training
Proficiency alone is inadequate. Teachers must be provided with support for learning how to
teach differently and creating for students learning experiences not possible in the absence of
technology. A professional learning curriculum aligned with this goal, accompanied by the
expectation for continuous improvement, must be developed or adopted and delivered in
multiple modalities to increase the pedagogical capacity of our instructional staff. A team of
high quality Instructional Technology Specialists is vital to accomplishing this goal.
Instructional Technology Specialists, however, must not work in isolation. They must be fully
integrated into school based instructional leadership and data teams and work together with
Media Specialists and Field Support Technicians.
8.1.3 Online Anytime, Anywhere Training
The district currently uses Moodle, an open-source PHP web application for producing
modular internet-based courses that support a modern, social constructionist pedagogy.
Plans are in place to implement a district wide learning management system and
learning object repository to facilitate easy access to digital content and resources.
8.1.4 Training Labs
There are three labs available within the district dedicated to training; two at the
Professional Support Center and one at the School Support Center.
8.1.5 Optimizing Training
Identification and acquisition of delivery systems to provide training that minimizes
teacher time away from the classroom and provides cost-effectiveness is a high
priority. A needs assessment is conducted each spring that surveys all instructional
and support personnel to determine the types of training that are needed to support
District initiatives. Technology training is consistently one of the most requested
forms of staff development. In addition as new telephone systems are acquired for
schools through E-Rate funding, training on all features and functions are provided.
8.2 Other Sources of Training and Technical Assistance
The following is a list of additional sources of ongoing training and technical assistance
available to teachers and administrators:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
University of South Florida’s Center for Instructional Technology (FCIT)
Florida Digital Educator Program
Florida Educational Technology Conference (FETC)
State College of Florida (SCF) courses
Florida Leadership Network training for Principals
University of Central Florida’s Instructional Technology Resource Center
FLDOE Office of Educational Technology
Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS)
SECTION 9
PROGRAM EVALUATION
9.1 Ongoing Evaluation
9.1.1 Evaluation of Integration Process
The impact of instructional technology can only be measured against its impact on teaching and learning.
Therefore, it is necessary to adopt and implement a measurement tool or rubric, and incorporate its use into
walkthrough and classroom observation instruments. To ensure meaningful data and inter-rater reliability, training
on applying the selected rubric to learning events must be developed and delivered to all administrative staff
charged with evaluating classroom instruction.
9.1.2 Impact on Achievement
A combination of assessment tools and strategies will be used to determine the impact of the technology plan on
student achievement, as defined in the Sunshine State Standards and the National Educational Technology
Standards (NETS) for students. The assessment plan will focus on the following areas:
1. The ability of students to demonstrate basic technology operational knowledge and skills.
2. The ability of students to utilize technology resources for learning, productivity, and creativity as
applied to meeting subject area specifications defined in the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.
3. The ability of students to utilize technology to communicate ideas and work collaboratively to support
individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.
4. The ability of students to utilize technology to gather, evaluate and ethically use information from a
variety of sources and media.
5. The ability of students to use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects,
solve problems and make informed decisions utilizing appropriate technology tools and resources.
6. The impact of technology utilization on student achievement as measured by the Florida Comprehensive
Assessment Test (FCAT).
7. Demonstration of understanding human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice
legal and ethical behavior.
8. The ability of teachers to utilize technology in student learning experiences.
9. The ability of teachers to utilize technology in the process of differentiating instruction to
accommodate individual learning styles and modalities.
10. The utilization of technology in the assessment of student performance including diagnosis
(screening), monitoring (formative assessment), and examination of mastery (summative
assessment) strategies.
After all results are summarized, a final report will be published and relayed to schools and departments for
decision making and evaluation purposes. All surveys, rubric-based assessments, student and classroom
portfolios will be produced and implemented in electronic form utilizing appropriate technology.
9.2 Mid-Course Corrections
Staff from Measurement and Data Analysis, along with the department of Professional Development, will work
closely with schools in the evaluation of their programs. School Improvement Plans sometimes need revision in
mid-year based on outcomes to that point or changing conditions.
Focusing on technology evaluation tools, district staff will monitor research done by the Center for Applied
Research in Educational Technology (CARET) and the International Society for Technology in Education
(ISTE). In addition, educational technology journals, the USDOE, Florida DOE, and other sources, will be
monitored for developments that could positively impact district activities.
Appendix
A
Premise
Network Wiring
System Specifications
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MANATEE COUNTY
DIVISION 17- INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
OVERVIEW
Multimode fiber optic cable will be used to connect communications closets with each
other. All fiber optic cable will be home run from each communications closet to the main
distribution frame without splicing or cross-connections. Category 5e UTP cable will be
used between the communications closets and the communications station outlets. A single
manufacturer’s product will be used for all like system components.
The Contractor shall furnish and install all fiber distribution centers, patch panels, relay
racks, cabinets, communications outlet jacks and communications outlet cover plates. The
installation shall be completely terminated and ready for Owner's use. The Contractor shall
furnish and install all electronic equipment.
Test and identify all cables and terminations and furnish Owner with "as -built" drawings,
and equipment manuals. Train Owner's representatives in the operation, layout, and
trouble shooting of the installed system.
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
The Contractor shall provide and install a quantity of rack mounted network equipment
specified by Owner. Equipment manufacturer, model numbers and quantities will be
supplied to the Contractor by the SDMC Network Services Manager upon request. All
equipment will be new, non-refurbished with full manufacturer’s warranty.
FIBER OPTIC PATCH PANELS
All communications closets shall terminate fibers with SC type ceramic connectors
manufactured by Siecor, Fiberopticx, Ortronics, or approved equivalent.
FIBER OPTIC CABLE
Each outlying IDF communications closet will have a minimum 12 count multimode
62.5/125 fiber optic cable home run to the MDF closet without any splices and will be
rated for the environment in which it is installed.
FIBER OPTIC PATCH CABLES
Contractor shall supply one fiber optic jumper/patch cord for each termination in each
communications closet. Jumpers shall consist of two multimode 62.5/125 fibers, 2 meters
long with type SC ceramic connectors on both ends.
2
STATION OUTLET PATCH PANELS
Category 5e patch panels shall consist of RJ45 non-keyed modular jacks with all 8 pin
positions prewired to self-contained 110D type IDC blocks.
Patch panels shall be 24 or 48 port and manufactured by Ortronics, Inc., Siemon Company,
Panduit, Leviton, or prior approved equivalent.
Station cables shall be terminated in EIA-568-A configuration.
STATION OUTLET CABLE
All cables will be Category 5e UTP and shall be continuous from each communications
outlet to the patch panel without splices.
STATION OUTLET PATCH CABLES
Contractor will provide one computer station cable and one electronic switch patch cable
for every data drop. Provide 25% of cables 3'-0" long, 25% of cables 5'-0" long, 25% of
cables 9'-0" long and 25% of cables 15'-0" long.
All data cables shall be yellow Category 5e, consisting of four (4) pair, 24 AWG copper, 8
pos, 8 conductor. Provide snagless ends of the same color.
STATION OUTLETS
Classroom Category 5e communications outlets shall consist of a single gang faceplate
with 3 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110 type inserts with 1 F type CATV jack. Classrooms
will have 2 of these communications outlets per room to be located on opposite walls. One
Category 5e communications outlets per classroom with 1 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110
type insert installed 1 foot above the finished ceiling tiles and labeled WAP - rm# on the
ceiling grid with a machine generated label.
Computer labs shall have one data drop and 1 duplex outlet for every computer station.
Install one F type CATV jack per computer lab room. There are to be no floor
communications outlets.
Office and storage room Category 5e communications outlets shall consist of a single gan g
faceplate with 3 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110 type inserts with 1 F type CATV. Install
one communications outlet per office / storage room.
Each cafeteria manager’s office shall have one Category 5e single gang faceplate
communications outlet with 3 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110 type inserts. Each cafeteria
point of sale station locations shall have one Category 5e single gang faceplate
communications outlet with 2 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110 type inserts. All station
cables are to home run to the communications closet.
3
The Custodian’s office shall have one Category 5e single gang faceplate communications
outlet with 3 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110 type inserts with 1 F type CATV.
Each Air Handler mechanical room shall have one Category 5e single gang faceplate
communications outlets with 2 non-keyed RJ45 modular to 110 type inserts.
All modular jacks shall have a 45 degree downward tilt and shall be interchangeable with
removable circuit labels. All jacks shall be white in color and be labeled at both ends.
Communications outlets are not to be located under dry erase teaching boards, next to
sinks or within 5 feet of doorways. Duplex electric outlets shall be installed next to every
communications outlet. No electric outlets are needed for the ceiling WAP
communications outlets.
EQUIPMENT RACKS
Self supporting 19” x 7’ tall freestanding racks, having standard EIA hole pattern on front
and rear flange with overhead support cross members and front mounted wire management
panels.
Contractor will provide twenty #12-24 pan head mounting screws with each rack for the
mounting of electronic equipment.
Contractor shall provide one multi-outlet surge protected power receptacle strip for each
rack. Unit shall be 19" rack mount, six outlet, and circuit breaker with 6'-0" line cord.
The contractor will install a 7’ high server rack in the MDF next to the equipment racks to
include 2 front and 2 rear adjustable rail tracks for the mounting of servers. Racks will be
securely mounted to the floor and grounded to the building grounding system.
Contractor shall provide ladder type cable runway tray sections and accessories in all
communications closets.
Provide one 19” equipment shelves for each rack.
GROUND BUS ASSEMBLIES
Grounding bar assemblies with lugs shall be provided at each relay rack location and
cabinet in quantities as indicated on the plans. Provide ground bus and lugs in each
communications closet and to every equipment rack.
4
PATCH PANEL AND COMMUNICATIONS OUTLET LABELING
Each communications outlet shall be identified with a permanent label on the outlet
faceplate and the patch panel jack. In addition, the port label shall also be permanently
attached to the UTP cables at both ends. The use of Brother P-Touch tape marking system
will be acceptable. Hand written labels are not acceptable. The following scheme shall be
used in the labeling process:
Communications Closet Room Number - Position on Patch Panel
For example, classroom # 212 with 3 Cat 5E cables that terminates into communication s
closet room # 245
The Classroom outlet would be labeled:
CC 245
9 - 10 - 11
245 refers to the communications closet room #
9 -10 - 11 corresponds to the positions on the patch panel in the communications closet
The Communications Closet would be labeled: 212-9 212-10 212-11
212 refers to the classroom # that this outlet terminates in 9 -10 - 11 corresponds to the jack
identification #
The communications closet patch panels will be labeled above each port with the room
number each jack services and will correspond with the jack in each room.
Each patch panel shall be labeled sequentially from left to right, top to bottom with the
room number and port number such that the ports can be located easily on the panel.
All fibers in each fiber optic cable shall be identified at each end on the interconnect cabinet
with permanent plastic labels. Fiber cabinets shall be identified with the building number,
room number and corresponding fiber number for the far end of the cables.
5
PORTABLE CABLING SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL SCOPE
Every portable in the district used for instructional purposes will have the following
network communications infrastructure and will be equipped and designed as follows:
No cable splices will be allowed outside the termination locations
described in this document or on the prints.
All cables will be labeled on both ends with clear permanent machine
generated labels matching the numbering plan indicated herein.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Provide and install a Hubbell REbox (Commercial Remote Equipment Cabinet) model RE2
inside each portable next to an electrical outlet. Determination of the mounting location
will vary depending on the design of each portable and must be approved by the SDMC
Network Services Manager prior to installation.
Install a 1” steel conduit pipe to be run from the RE2 cabinet to the exterior of the portable
and terminate into a NEMA 3 weather proof 8” x 8” x 6” J Box with an accessible cover.
The steel pipe will be fastened to the portable in multiple locations so that the pipe cannot
move.
Install two separate interduct conduit pipes exiting the bottom of the J Box and bury them in
the ground to terminate into a 12”x 18” pull box installed near each portable. One pull box
can be shared by multiple portables if the distance between the pull box and the por table is
not greater than 30 feet.
Install two separate 1” conduit pipes buried at least 12” deep from the pull box to either an
exterior weatherproof cabinet mounted at least 4 feet up on a backboard or a larger buried
pull box at least 2 feet x 2 feet. The decision of which type of termination will vary from
site to site and will be determined by the owner.
Install two separate 2” conduit pipes buried at least 12” deep between the above
determined location to the closest permanent building’s communications closet.
6
EXTERNAL WIRING
Install a two strand fiber optic cable which is suitable for underground installation between
each portable’s RE2 cabinet and either the external backboard cabinet or building’s
communications closet as determined above or laid out on the engineering prints.
Install a 4-pair gel filled Cat 5E cable (Mohawk 5EXHO4P24-BK-R-MOH-NR or
equivalent) between each portable’s RE2 cabinet and either to external backboard cabinet
or building’s communications closet which has available voice backbone pairs.
Install an RG6 coaxial cable which is suitable for underground placement between each
portable’s RE2 cabinet and either to external backboard cabinet or building’s
communications closet which has available TV signal.
Install a 4-conductor 20 AWG P.A. cable with 1-pair shielded and a drain wire (West
Penn 359 or equivalent) between each portable’s RE2 cabinet and either to external
backboard cabinet or building’s communications closet which has available P.A. circuits.
Labeling shall be as follows; each pair of fiber in the permanent building’s communications
closet will have a label that denotes the portable # that each pair of fiber terminates in. The
portable will have a label on the fiber denoting the permanent building’s communications
closet room #.
INTERNAL WIRING
Install two communications outlet boxes on opposite walls in each portable and located next
to power outlets. Determination of the mounting location will vary depending on the design
of each portable and must be approved by the SDMC Network Services Manager.
Each outlet will have three Cat 5E cables and one F type CATV termination contained in
each outlet box. These cables are to be run inside the walls if possible; otherwise they can be
run on the interior surface of the finished wall, into and above the drop ceiling space and
down the wall into the RE2 cabinet.
Terminate all cables onto Cat5E patch panels or CATV connectors located inside the RE2
cabinet and label both ends of all cables. Install cable Race Trac over all exposed cable
runs inside the portable.
7
Appendix
B
Acceptable Use Guidelines
and
Student Internet Safety Policy
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MANATEE COUNTY
Electronic Communication Systems
Acceptable Use Policy
4.7 ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
POLICY
The School Board authorizes the Superintendent to establish and maintain procedures in order to
ensure compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations regarding safe internet access
and usage. (See supporting statutes and laws cited below.) For purposes of this policy, electronic
data and communications “system(s)” which means a combination of or parts of things forming, all
components of the District’s electronic data and communications which includes, but is not limited to:
the District owned computer network, servers on those networks, the computing devices of all types,
workstations and laptops issued by the district, whether or not connected to those networks, the email
system and other software applications, and access to the internet via district-owned devices or
connections. The expectation for users is that the systems are used to support the mission of the
District, teaching and learning, and all associated support functions.
The District prohibits any unauthorized systems access, including hacking and other unlawful access,
by staff, students and volunteers.
All staff, students and volunteers must comply with the Electronic Communications Acceptable Use
Policy and guidelines or possibly be subjected to disciplinary action. The District shall establish and
maintain written procedures that outline responsibilities related to proper use of electronic
communications systems.
Staff, students and volunteers shall treat access to the District systems as a privilege and maintain
confidentiality of their personal security information such as usernames and passwords to secure
systems data.
The Superintendent will ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including those
which require:
(1) Monitoring the use of the systems, including internet use, as part of ordinary student
supervision. The District will filter, block and remove electronic information on
District systems which contain visual depictions deemed obscene, pornographic,
sexually explicit, cyberbullying communications, and other potentially harmful
information. Minors are prohibited from gaining access to this type of material and
information.
(2) Educating staff, students and volunteers on appropriate online behavior, including
“cyberbullying” awareness and response and interacting with other individuals on
social networking sites, in instant messaging and in online chat rooms and other
forms of direct electronic communication, as no employee shall have any
expectation of privacy as to his or her district systems usage, including District email
and Internet access.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY:
Florida Statutes: 120.54, 120.536(1),
120.81(d), 1001.41
The Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g;
34 CFR Part 99)
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA; Pub.L. 104–191, 110
Stat. 1936, enacted August 21, 1996)
The Children’s Internet Protection ACT (CIPA) Pub. L. No. 106-554 (2000) (codified at
20 U.S. C. §§ 6801, 6777, 9134 (2003)
LAWS IMPLEMENTED:
Florida Statutes: 119.085, 1001.42,1012.34
History:
Adopted: March 14, 2005
Reformatted without change in text: October
31, 2008
Revision Date(s): January 14, 2014
References:
Student Use Guidelines
Student Code of Conduct
Employee Handbook
4.7.1 STUDENT INTERNET SAFETY POLICY
POLICY
The Superintendent is hereby authorized to establish and maintain procedures in order to ensure
compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding safe
internet access and usage by students.
PROCEDURES
(1) Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Systems is prohibited, and such
material shall be filtered to block access to visual depictions deemed obscene, child
pornography, or harmful to minors as those terms are defined by applicable law.
(2) Unauthorized Systems access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities, is
prohibited.
(3) Student use of the Systems, including internet use, shall be monitored as part of
ordinary student supervision to ensure compliance with this policy.
(4) Students shall be educated on appropriate online behavior, including “cyberbullying”
awareness and response and interacting with other individuals on social networking
sites, in instant messaging and in online chat rooms and other forms of direct
electronic communication.
(5) Use of the Systems for unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of
personally identifiable information regarding minors is prohibited.
(6) The Superintendent or designee shall take other measures deemed appropriate to
restrict minors from using the Systems to access material harmful to minors.
(7) For purposes of this policy, "Systems" means all components of the District’s
electronic data and communications system which includes, but is not limited to, the
district-owned computer network, its servers, workstations and laptops issued by the
District, whether or not connected to those networks, district-owned computing
devices of all types, the District’s email system and other software applications, and
access to the internet via district-owned devices or connections.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY:
Florida Statutes: 120.81, 1001.32 (2), 1001.41, 1001.42,
1001.43
LAWS IMPLEMENTED:
Florida Statutes: 1001.41, 1001.42
Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), 47 U.S.C.
§254(l).
History:
Adopted: February 25, 2013
Appendix
C
Webpage Guidelines
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MANATEE COUNTY
GUIDELINES FOR WEB PAGES
The goal of the Manatee County Public Schools web presence is to leverage web technologies that
appropriately engage and inform our community, staff and students. The web presence is to
consist of the following components:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
District and Department level web sites
School and Organization level web sites
Internal sites (Intranet)
Mobile device specific sites
Learning Management System site
Social Media integration
Ancillary (third-party) site integration
In development and acquisition of these components the following recommendations should be
considered:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Seamless integration for the end-user where feasible
Low technical point of entry for content creators
Device and Operating System agnostic applications
Consistency in design and user interface where possible
Scalability and future-proofing
Security and standards compliance (LIIS)
To address these recommendations the district will be utilizing the Engage pro duct from
Blackboard Inc. as its primary web platform for all sites, where appropriate. Additional
allowances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Oversight
The implementation will be managed under the Systems and Software Engineering sub -department
of the Information Technology.
Administrative responsibilities will fall into the following user groups:
1. Senior Development - Access to control of all sites, establishment of design and content
guidelines, code development, integration and top-level training.
2. Site Super User (department & school) – Access to entire site, monitor compliance to design
and content guidelines, user management and local training.
3. Content Creators – Access to specific content areas to create and curate content.
4. Authenticated End Users – Read access and ability to interact with content and other users
5. Non-Authenticated End Users – Read only access
The site Super User(s) will be chosen by the department manager or school principal. It is
recommended that multiple Super Users be chosen for each site for the purposes of intellectual
redundancy. One Super User should be chosen as the Primary web contact for that site.
A design specification guideline and template will be drafted to ensure consistency in branding and
user experience across all district sites.
Content
All web content shall be created within the confines of the district supported Blackboard Engage
content management system, unless technical or other limitations apply.
Exceptions to the usage of the Blackboard Engage platform need to be authorized by the Manatee
County Public Schools Information Technology department. Content shall adhere to the
established design guidelines.
All content shall conform to school board policies, established school guidelines and copyright
laws, and shall not violate federal, state, or local laws.
All content shall adhere to the School Board of Manatee County Electronic Communications
Acceptable Use Policy
All content shall be academic, school, or department related. Advertising or commercial use other
than recognition of our school business partners is prohibited.
Servers, software platforms, data connections, virtual and/or physical equipment should not be used to
store, transmit or process any functions other than legitimate educational uses and purposes
appropriate, authorized by, and specific to the respective sites/programs. The use of technology
shall be consistent with existing policies and procedures.
Web content creators (Super Users, Classroom teachers and other Content Creators) are primarily
responsible for ensuring that the content they publish is timely and accurate as well as making
sure that any out-going links are active and appropriate.
Classroom Teachers are primarily responsible for monitoring the compliance of student-contributed
content on all, Engage classroom pages, LMS courses and/or third party websites that they have
management responsibilities for.
Directory Information - Some of the information in school records is not confidential and may
be released without parental consent. This information is known as “directory information.”
Directory information includes the following:
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Full legal name
The image or likeness in pictures, videotape, film or other medium
Dates of attendance
Major field of study
Participation in officially recognized sports and activities
Height and weight of athletic team members
Degrees and awards received
Most recent previous educational institution attended
Subsequent educational institution attended
Academic work intended for publication or display
If parents do not want directory information released, they must notify the principal in writing
as to what types of directory information they do not want released. That written notice to the
principal must be received no later than September 15 of each school year or within 30 days of
receiving this annual notice. NOTE: Objecting to the release of directory information may
result in the student’s name, photograph and other directory information being excluded from
year books, sports programs, and other school publications.
Similarly, permission must be obtained from any staff member prior to displaying his/her
photograph or information. Staff must be asked for their permission and a file kept with the
names of those who do not wish their photos to be published.
No web content should allow people accessing the page to contact any student directly. No
content should publicly divulge contact information or personally identifiable information
about students other than the aforementioned directory information.
Copyright
Copyright must be respected. The author of the Web page must not use copyrighted materials
without permission.
The author for any original work may claim copyright, in which case, the offending content
shall be immediately removed pending resolution with the copyright holder. Attribution for all
works (copyrighted, creative commons, public domain, fair use) should always be granted.
The fair use doctrine (Section 107-118, Title 17 US Copyright Law) is a guideline for limited
non-commercial use of copyrighted works and not an infallible defense for use of copyrighted
works without permission.