Parent Technology Resources

At the Tippecanoe School Corporation, students in grades K-1 utilize iPads in the classroom and students in grades 2-5 utilize Google Chromebooks in the classroom. These devices are only taken home in instances of remote learning and only students who have opted-in to the take-home policy are allowed to do so. Students in grades 6-12 also utilize Google Chromebooks, however they are assigned a device to use throughout middle school, and another device to use throughout high school. Students in grades 6-12 take the devices home each night, bring them back to school each day, and retain them throughout the summer to provide learning opportunities beyond the school day. This program is known as the "1 to 1 initiative" wherein each student has access to their own device. The parent orientation the middle and high school 1 to 1 initiative can be found here.

Parenting students who are "digital natives," or who have been brought up in a world full of technology, can prove to be quite challenging. Below are resources that parents may find helpful to help their students use technology and digital resources. Also included below is information about student devices (Chromebooks & iPads), some of which is applicable to all students and some that is targeted to middle and high school students who take their device home every day.

Canvas (Grades 6-12)

Canvas

Canvas is a learning management system (LMS) used by students in grades 6-12. A Learning Management System is a web-based software application that provides a platform for the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, and delivery of digital education material and courses. In short, an LMS is where teachers will post announcements, assignments, resources, quizzes, tests, and other course-related materials for students to access. Within the LMS, students will access a calendar that shows information for all of their courses, they will access course materials, collaborate with their peers and teachers, submit assignments, and take assessments.

Parents/guardians of TSC students can create a Canvas account, which will be linked to their child/children. By creating a Canvas Parent Account, parents can review the materials their child's teachers have published within Canvas, check assignment and test due dates, and much more. Additionally, parents can sign-up for alerts and enter their cell phone number to receive text notifications.

Please review the instructions shown below to learn how to go about creating a Canvas Parent Account. Please note, there are separate instructions for parent accounts to be used on a computer vs. parent accounts to be used on a mobile device (Smartphone App). Parents can take advantage of either option or both options.

Parent Account Setup on Computer
More information about Navigating Canvas
Parent Account Setup on mobile device (e.g. Canvas Parent App on smartphone)
Information on how to use the Canvas Parent App
Install the Canvas Parent iOS App (parents only)
Install the Canvas Parent Android App (parents only)

Clever

Digital Learning Parent Resources & Remote Tech Support Tickets

Elementary

Secondary

The TSC Technology Department offers limited technical support for student devices during virtual and remote learning activities. If your child's TSC-issued device (Chromebook or iPad) experiences a technical/hardware issue, please use the link below to submit a remote support request to the technical specialist at your child's school. The technical specialist will respond to the ticket via email and invite you to make an appointment with them if necessary. Please note: This option should only be used for technical/hardware issues that impede your child's ability to complete their virtual/remote learning activities. This option should not be used for general questions, challenges in accessing remote learning materials, etc. If your child has questions about how to complete a virtual/remote learning assignment, access a digital application, login to a program, etc. they should contact their teacher. If the teacher is unable to answer the question, they will solicit additional support.

Remote Support Request Form

Getting Started with GSuite & Google Drive

Getting Started with Google Drive

TSC students in grades K-12 receive Google Drive accounts, which they utilize to create and store digital files. This two minute video shows you how to go to the Google Drive website and login. Parents can login to their child's Google Drive account at any time using their child's username and password (information below). Students in grades 2-8 receive school-issued "closed campus" email accounts, meaning they can only correspond with staff and students at the TSC. Students in grades 9-12 receive school-issued "open" email accounts, meaning they can correspond with recipients inside, and outside, the TSC.

Google Classroom (Grades K-5)

Growing Up Digital - Digital Citizenship Resources

Digital technologies have profoundly changed childhood and adolescence. The internet and the means to access it, such as tablets and smartphones, along with social media platforms and messaging apps, have become integral to the lives of youth around the world. They have transformed their education and learning, the way they make and maintain friendships, how they spend their leisure time, and their engagement with wider society. Each month, Growing up Digital will highlight a topic related to digital literacy and provide resources, talking points, and other helpful information.

March

Cyberbullying, Digital Drama, and Hate Speech

Most kids will encounter mean behavior at some point in their digital lives. For some kids, this experience is a blip that's easily forgotten, while for others it can have deep, long-lasting effects. For parents, the key is staying involved in kids' lives -- both online and off -- so they can step in and offer help if necessary. With guidance from parents and educators, kids can learn how to dodge the drama and stand up for others.

April

News and Media Literacy

With so much media and information coming at us through the television, phones, social media, and more, it's more important than ever for kids to understand the basics of media literacy. When kids can identify different types of news and media and the methods and meanings behind them, they're on their way to being critical thinkers and smart consumers.

May

September

Learning with Technology and Family Media Agreement

Learning with technology, whether with a math app, a video how-to, or a webpage, opens up a new world of discovery for kids. And as they access information in novel ways, kids are preparing for life in a new interconnected, global world. Learn how to spot the good stuff, find the right products for your kids' needs, and foster a love of learning. More information can be found on Common Sense Media's website.

October

Media Balance and Well-Being

From phones and tablets to streaming movies and YouTube, tech and media are everywhere. Kids love easy access to shows, games, and information. Parents and caregivers love that kids can learn on the go (and stay busy when dinner's cooking). But it's easy to overdo it when the phone never stops pinging and the next episode plays automatically. Families can keep media and tech use in check by following a few simple practices.

K-5 Family Tips

6-12 Family Tips

Family Activities

November

Privacy and Security

When kids start to go online, whether they're playing multiplayer games, using educational apps, or just following their curiosity on Google, it's important that they understand the basics of online privacy and safety. With some general guidelines around what information is and isn't OK to share, and some help from parents when they're unsure, kids can have fun and learn a lot in the digital world.

K-5 Family Tips

6-12 Family Tips

Family Activities

Grade 3-5 Family Activity

6-8 Family Activity

December

It may seem obvious that eating dinner with your family is a good thing. Research provides plenty of support for the importance of family dinner for kids: Learning vocabulary, fewer behavior problems, less substance abuse, and healthier eating are some of the positive outcomes. This month, we’re asking all TSC families to enjoy a device-free dinner as part of a healthy digital lifestyle, and make the most of family time. So, when you have a family dinner, commit to putting devices away for those 30 minutes (or, if you have small children, the six minutes of dinner!). Turn your devices on silent. Better yet, put them somewhere where you can't see them and where a notification won’t tempt you to check it. Enjoy a device-free dinner as part of a healthy digital lifestyle, and make the most of family time. Share your family’s dinner on social media (after dinner is finished!) and use the hashtag #DeviceFreeDinner.

More information
K-12 Video
6-12 Video
Dealing with Devices: The Parent-Teen Dilemna

January

Digital Footprint and Identity

As soon as you share the first photo of your kid, you're establishing their digital footprint. As kids get older and start creating their own content or engaging with others online, it's important for them to understand the tracks they're leaving behind and what those tracks might reveal. Parents can help guide kids toward creating the kind of footprint they can be proud of.

K-5 Family Tips

6-12 Family Tips

Family Activities

February

February: Relationships and Communication

Soon after kids start reading and writing, they often begin interacting with others online. Whether they're chatting within games or texting family members, kids need the skills to interact respectfully. These skills will help kids -- and the people they're communicating with -- have positive experiences online.

High Speed Internet Access & TSC Outdoor WiFi Options

High Speed Internet Access

Access to high speed internet is a critical ingredient to a student's academic success. While TSC provides high speed internet access at each of its campuses, we recognize that students may not have access to high speed internet when they are not at school. The TSC has recently extended its WiFi signal to the exterior of each school building (excluding high schools due to construction). More information on this option can be found below.

Families in Tippecanoe County have multiple options for obtaining high speed internet access, with providers offering a variety of plans and packages. Local providers include Frontier, Metronet, TDS, Wintek, and Xfinity. Wintek offers an Affordable Connectivity Program where qualifying households can receive a $30 monthly discount on home internet service. Xfinity offers a program called Internet Essentials, which provides a discounted rate ($9.95 per month) for eligible households.

The TSC has partnered with Wintek/Tipmont to offer free, public WiFi at four of the outdoor Wifi locations (Klondike Elementary, East Tipp Middle, Southwestern Middle, and Wainwright Middle). This interactive map shows Wintek's public WiFi offerings throughout the region. At these locations, the TSC WiFi networks are available (TSC account required) as well as Wintek's free Wifi Network (no account required). The other 14 locations are only broadcasting the TSC WiFi networks (no free public option).

To access the outdoor WiFi options, patrons can drive their car near the locations identified on the maps linked below. For the free public options, users will connect their device to the “Free Wintek WiFi” signal. Patrons must agree to Wintek's terms of use before connecting and should treat this with the same caution as any other public internet connection. Use care when connecting to any websites that require a password or personal information. This includes social networking sites, online banking services or any websites that store your credit card information.

To access the TSC WiFi networks, a student or staff username and password is required. Users of these networks are subject to the TSC's Acceptable Use Policies.

Users are strongly encouraged to practice social distancing measures when using the outdoor WiFi at these locations.

Linewize Content Filter/Qustodio Parent App

The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) requires K-12 schools to use a content filter to limit the types of content students can access on the internet when using the district's internet connection and/or their school-issued device (i.e. Chromebook). The TSC uses Linewize as its content filter, and students' internet activity is filtered consistently both at school and when using a school-issued device outside of school.

In addition to providing content filtering services, Linewize partners with Qustodio, a student safety and digital wellbeing platform, to provide parents/guardians with reporting and oversight of their students' internet activity when using their school-issued device. Through this service, parents/guardians can also add up to two of their students' personal devices (optional) to their Qustodio account free of charge.

The Qustodio parent account/app provides the following options to parents/guardians:

Ensure your child’s safety and wellbeing online after school hours
Gain visibility and insights on how school devices are being used
Pause internet access to balance your child’s digital activity based on the parameters set up by your district
Receive expert advice and insights on online safety topics like cyber bullying, screen time, gaming and trends
More features coming soon, including more detailed reporting and the ability to block specific websites when your student isn't at school.

To being using Qustodio, please visit qustodio.com/my-school and follow the prompts to activate your account. You must use the same email address that is used for your PowerSchool Parent Portal account.

Linewize Online Safety Hub

Tippecanoe School Corporation is continually committed to developing an atmosphere of trust among our parent community, in our ability to provide not only a positive and enriching educational experience, but a safe place for students to thrive too.

That is why we have partnered with Linewize, a leading global provider of online safety products and education, to create an online safety hub for parents and teachers. This hub includes articles, videos, courses and more, to ensure you know how to keep your kids safe online.

Student Data Privacy

Data Privacy

The Tippecanoe School Corporation adheres to the requirements set forth by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). To that end, the TSC recognizes the importance of protecting the privacy and security of student data. Through ongoing training with our staff, we strive to maintain an educational environment that balances the need to provide students with relevant, engaging learning experiences while still safeguarding their privacy and data. TSC students' use of the Google productivity suite (GSuite for Education) is covered by Google's educational privacy policies.

Student Device Information (Chromebooks & iPads)

Rental Fee (Grades 6-12)

The Tippecanoe School Corporation views personal computing devices as necessary tools that are critical to student learning. In order to prepare students for an increasingly connected, technology-centric world, it is imperative for them to have access to high quality digital tools and resources. Just as students are required to pay rental fees each year for their textbooks and course materials, they also pay a rental fee for the personal computing device with which they're provided. The rental fee covers a fraction of the total cost of the device, but does not cover damages, theft, or loss. Currently, TSC students included in the 1 to 1 initiative have a different device depending on their grade level. However, the rental fee is the same regardless of the device model.

HARDWARE RENTAL FEE

$60.00 per year

The hardware rental fee will be included with the rest of the textbook and material fees assessed at the beginning of the school year. This fee does not provide coverage for potential damages and their corresponding charges.

Damages, Liability, and Repair Fees (All Grades)

The student is responsible for maintaining a 100% working device at all times. The student shall use reasonable care to ensure that the device is not damaged; refer to the TSC's Standards for Proper Care to learn how to maintain a functioning device. If a device is damaged in such a manner that its use and functionality is impacted, TSC will charge the student the cost for repair or replacement, including labor, when damage occurs. When 8th grade students return their device at the end of their middle school career, damage fees may be assessed for damages to their device. Lost parts will be charged at the current TSC replacement cost.

TSC strives to issue students the same device for consecutive years throughout the life cycle of the device (4 years). Middle School students will be issued the same device in grades 6-8 (6th grade students will receive a used/repaired device, as the 3 year span of Middle School does not match the 4 year life cycle of the device). High School students will be issued the same device in grades 9-12. Minor damages may not result in charges from year to year. However, when the device is returned at the end of the cycle and will no longer be used by the student, repair charges may then be assessed, as the device must be returned to satisfactory condition at that time.

Below is a listing of potential damage charges students could incur depending on the device they have been issued. Because TSC repairs damages internally, they are able to achieve considerable savings in labor costs. Due to agreements with each manufacturer, TSC must repair devices with parts purchased directly from the manufacturer and is unable to utilize after market/OEM parts. TSC obtains these parts at a discounted rate, and that cost is then passed along to the party responsible for the damage.

Please note: The below costs are an estimate, as the actual costs fluctuate on a regular basis.

Standards for Proper Care

TSC students must adhere to a set of care and usage standards when utilizing a TSC-issued device. Failure to adhere to these standards may result in damage to the device, potential damage charges, and other school-based consequences.

GENERAL USE

If the device comes with a plastic protective case, the device must remain in the case at all times. If the device comes with a protective backpack, the device must be transported in the backpack at all times.
Do not pick the device up by the corner of the screen or with one hand. The device should be picked up and carried from the base with two hands and closed when transporting from one location to another.
Keep the devices free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels that are not applied by TSC.
Always use the device on a flat, stable surface. While the device may be a laptop, it shouldn't sit on one's lap.
Never leave any object on the keyboard. Pens or pencils left on the keyboard will crack the screen when the lid is closed.
Do not set books on top of the device.
Do not have food or drinks around the device.
Wipe surfaces with a clean, dry soft cloth.
Do not leave the device exposed to direct sunlight or near any heat or moisture sources for extended periods of time.

Power Management

It is the student’s responsibility to recharge the devices battery so it is fully charged by the start of the next school day. The device should be charged each night!
Lowering the screen brightness will conserve battery power.
Devices with no battery life must be charged in the CRAM Classroom, a charging tower (High School) or Media Center (Middle School). The student forfeits use of the device for the entire time it takes to charge.
All class work missed because of uncharged batteries must be made up on students’ own time.

TRANSPORT

Always transport the device either in its protective plastic case or its protective backpack.
When transporting the device in a backpack, do not overload the backpack with books, as pressure on the device can cause damage to the screen and other components.
The device should be closed when transporting.
Do not leave the device in a vehicle for extended periods of time or overnight.
Do not leave the device in visible sight when left in a vehicle.

MONITORING AND SUPERVISION

Do not leave the device unattended in an unlocked classroom or during an extracurricular activity.
Do not lend the device to a classmate, friend, or family member.
Any attempt to “jailbreak” or remove the TSC profile could result in discipline consequences.
Students are expected to respect the web filter (on campus) as a safety precaution, and shall not attempt to circumvent the web filter such as using a proxy.
Students are responsible for the safety and security of the device and any activity on the device.
TSC may disable the device remotely to protect the device and/or data on the device.

NOTE: Failure to follow these precautions could result in a student being charged full replacement cost in the event of a lost, stolen or damaged device.

Damage Insurance Options (Chromebooks & iPads)

TSC families who have students participating in the 1:1 initiative are encouraged to purchase an insurance policy from Worth Ave. Group to protect against potential damage and loss charges. Worth Ave. offers a variety of coverage options for each of the devices TSC students rent. Listed below is information about the insurance policies as well as instructions on how to file a claim. If covered damage/loss occurs, the upfront cost is paid by the student and a reimbursement claim is filed with Worth Ave. The TSC does not receive payments from Worth Ave.

Insurance Policies:

Filing a Claim:

TSC Student Acceptable Use Guidelines

Device Ownership and Title

The Tippecanoe School Corporation has legal title to the property at all times. The user’s right of possession and use is limited to and conditioned upon full and complete compliance with this agreement, the TSC Student Acceptable Use Guidelines, and other technology-related guidelines included in their school's handbook. TSC administrative staff retains the right to collect and/or inspect the device at any time and for any reason, including via electronic remote access; and to alter, add or remove installed software or hardware. TSC will not utilize remote desktop connection to access the device's webcam.

Loss, Theft, or Damage

Should a TSC-issued device be damaged, lost, or stolen the student or parent/guardian should immediately notify the school administration. If a device is stolen the student/guardian should file a police report as soon as possible. If the device is lost, stolen, or totally damaged as a result of irresponsible behavior, the parent may be responsible for the full replacement cost. Students who cease to be enrolled at a TSC school must return the device, along with any other accessories, at the time they leave the Corporation. The device and all accessories should be returned to the CRAM Classroom/Window at the High School level, and the Media Center at the Middle School level.

Reposession

Substitution of Equipment

In the event the device becomes inoperable, TSC has a limited number of spares for use while the device is repaired or replaced. This agreement remains in effect for any substitute equipment. The student may not opt to keep a substitute "loaner" device or avoid using the substitute loaner due to loss or damage of the original. If a student’s assigned device no longer functions, the student should report it to the CRAM Classroom at the High School level or the Media Center at the Middle School level. No loaner device will be given to a student who does not bring his/her device to school.

Terms of Agreement

Unlawful Appropriation (Theft)

Student Login Information

TSC2GO Mobile App

The Tippecanoe School Corporation App School and Corporation News and Updates Calendars Staff Directory Alerts and Push N

Getting Started

The Tippecanoe School Corporation app, TSC2Go, is available for iOS and Android devices.

Instrucciones para TSC2Go

To download the free app:

Visit the App Store or Google Play, or scan the QR code
Search for TSC2Go
Follow the steps indicated for download

Once the app has loaded on your device, open it and tap the icons on the bottom to navigate to the different areas. See below for more information on customizing your app experience for your student's school.

Please note: All school and corporations alerts and delays will now go through TSC2Go. More information can be found in our Alerts and Push Notifications section.