FAQs

For Parents

Why did the district choose a 1:1 Initiative? 

• Every student can have the necessary information "anytime" and "anywhere"
• Supports differentiation of instruction and personalized learning
• Provides a continuous interactive environment
• Allows for individual practice and extends learning

Why did the district choose to use a Bring Your Own Device model to meet the 1:1 Initiative?  

This allows each student to select a device that is best for them to use and learn on and is consistent with other technology that the student has at home.

Is there any support for families in financial need?  

Yes, the BOE has approved support for Staples students whose family qualifies for free or reduced lunch and/or for heating assistance (through the town's Westport Warm-Up fund) by providing those students with a Chromebook for each year their family meets either program's eligibility requirements. 

For more information on qualifying for free or reduced lunch, please contact your child's guidance counselor, or Assistant Principal Christine Cincotta at ccincotta@westportps.org. 

For more information on the Westport Warm-Up program please contact Elaine Daignault with the Westport Town Human Services Department. 

How can I help my child be ready for the first day of school?

We suggest that your child be sure they can access their network account and have the security certificate downloaded and installed on their device. Please see Connecting at School for directions. 

Will students be getting training?

Incoming freshmen will have a time during their Freshmen Orientation day to work with a member of the Link Crew to make sure they can login to the school's main programs before the first day of school.  Classroom teachers and staff at the Library Learning Commons will be able support students on specific assignments.

What happens if my child's device becomes inoperable?

A limited number of Chromebooks are available for a one week checkout from the Library Learning Commons for use while your child's device is being repaired or replaced. 

For Students

Am I still held accountable for the Acceptable Use Agreement I signed even though this is my own personal computer?

Yes. The agreement covers the use of the district online resources including internet access.

Where can I see the Acceptable Use Policy for Technology?

https://shs.westportps.org/general/acceptable-use-policy

Why am I filtered on my own computer? Shouldn't I be able to see what I want to on my own tool?

All traffic using school provided Internet access is subject to the district's web filtering.

Can I put on other programs on my device than just a web browser?

You are free to install any applications you wish. For some classes you may be encouraged to find new software that meets your instructional needs. We strongly suggest that you install anti-virus software to protect your device. 

I have my laptop with me in class. How do I get on the Internet now?

Please follow the instructions linked on the Connecting at School page. 

I just can’t get my laptop to connect to the network. Can I get some help from someone?

You can visit the Staples Library Learning Commons during their regular hours for additional assistance.