Up In The Cloud

Cloud computing is a term used with increasing frequency, and it’s a concept the Clarkstown Central School District is embracing.  Essentially, “the cloud” refers to the Internet, and “cloud computing” refers to programs, storage, and sharing of files that takes place on the Internet with little or no need for programs other than an Internet browser. Of course, changing the model of simply replacing one computer with a newer one requires collaboration, clearly defined goals, a working knowledge of existing and emerging technologies, as well as committed staff willing to embrace change and the opportunities it brings.  Our district has all of these qualities, and already we are leveraging the benefits.

In our school district, using cloud computing strategically results in increased, anytime/anywhere accessibility to programs and data for our students and staff. Because it is housed and backed-up off site, it helps reduce the total cost of ownership for the district’s technology needs, including a reduction in energy demand, storage, server space, and backups.  All that is needed is a browser and the Internet.

Teachers and students take advantage of cloud computing in a variety of ways, but the most popular uses are Google Apps and School Web Lockers.  Google Apps allows students to collaborate on documents, presentations, spreadsheets and drawings, with multiple users accessing and editing the same document at the same time.  This is helpful in creating presentations, note-taking, various writing tasks, and more.  Because individuals only need a computer, a web browser, and an Internet connection, the collaborations can be done at anytime.  Some students use Smart Phones to create and edit, others use laptops, desktops, iPads, or other tablets.  Regardless, they are able to be access and be engaged with their content from literally anywhere.  

School Web Lockers is used frequently by teachers as a means to distribute notes, assignments, and other digital content to a student’s secure “online locker.” Students also use School Web Lockers to digitally transfer files from home to school and back, as well as to electronically submit coursework to their teachers. Though both Google Apps and School Web Lockers are cloud based applications, the end user decides which tool to use for any given purpose.

Cloud computing plays a significant role in various behind-the-scenes operations in the district.  For example, School Dude is an online application used by teachers to request a technician from the Department of Instructional Technology for a repair, or to submit a work order to the Facilities Department.  Our student information system, which tracks student achievement and a variety of data including report cards, also resides securely in the cloud, as does our IEP program, district attendance system, professional development system, email distribution system, auto-dialer, as well as our staff evaluation system.  There are other cloud based systems as well, and as we progress the Department of Instructional Technology will continue to explore ways to exploit cloud computing to the advantage of our students and staff.