Dear Parents and Students,   

 

Of iPads and Papal Visits:

Ms. Abad reports that the 9th graders have received their iPads during last week's Tech Literacy class.  The school counts on families to be our partners as we help students use these powerful devices in the best educational ways.  For the next few weeks, Ms. Abad will be guiding students in the basics of important pre-loaded apps and in the practice of being good digital citizens.  After Columbus Day, subject teachers will likely begin using the iPads in their classes and assigning homework that requires their use.  Let's all keep in mind what ND Social Studies Department Chair Glenn Stordeur has deemed the "10 Commandments of Tech":

1.  Thou shall use the ND WiFi at all times when in the building

2.  Thou shall use a technical device only at the direction of a teacher

3.  Thou shall not text in school

4.  Thou shall not use social media in school

5.  Thou shall not photograph or record anyone or anything in school without a teacher's explicit permission

6.  Thou shall not place or receive calls while at school

7.  Though shall not watch or listen to online entertainment at school

8.  Thou shall not play games at school, unless at the direction of a teacher

9.  Thou shall not use iPads or phones in the hallways, bathrooms, or Commons

10.  Thou shall not use non-educational apps at school

Thanks, Mr. Stordeur, and let's remember all the positive, educational ways our students will be employing the power of tech at ND.  From Kahn Academy, to Socrative, to Zaption, to Google Classroom, there are so many wonderful ways to harness the Internet for innovative  and transformative instruction and learning!

Speaking of "innovative and transformative," we are thrilled to have Pope Francis visiting NYC this Thursday and Friday.  Some of us are fortunate enough to be able to attend the Papal Mass or be there along the parade route.  All teachers will be invited to show the Papal addresses to Congress and to the UN this week on our classroom TVs.  We know that traffic may be challenging on Thursday and Friday.  Any student lateness due to street closures or delays related to the Pope's visit will be excused.  Any student who may be attending a Papal event during school hours will be granted an excused absence.  We do hope to keep teaching and learning on Thursday and Friday, so please do your best to be with us.  We can celebrate Pope Francis's visit together!

My best,  

Jackie Brilliant

Principal