August checklist

Information overload? These are the most important DLL things to know to stay on track: 

• Register for and complete the Digital Learning and Libraries Opening Meeting course.

  1. Registration in WakeLearns: Course #14479

Back-to-school, backpacks, and back in the groove

I recently read an article in which Venus Williams–the tennis legend with seven Grand Slam titles, five Wimbledon championships, and four Olympic gold medals–talks about how she does her best to start off a week on a good foot. One of her methods is to set the tone with a song. “If you have a speaker that you can dial right into, put your song on, get up, heat up with energy and good vibes, that’s how I like to start,” says Williams.

What song are you going to start with? What will get the good vibes going for your school year? Let’s turn up the volume and make it fun! Need help with your playlist? Let the Library Media Services team know how we can support you in achieving your goals. Susan, Kristel, Stacy, and I are thrilled to work alongside you.   - Kendra

Books & Paper Recycling Services 2024-25

The announcement has hit the airwaves about the 2024-25 books and paper recycling services! Recycling services can be scheduled September-April. As a reminder, this method of disposal of weeded books is recommended by Library Media Services. Before you start on a major weeding project, please reach out to either Kristel Behrend (secondary) or Susan Bock (elementary) so that they may consult and offer support. 

Digital Learning & Libraries: BOY Digital Resource Updates

For support using WCPSS recommended digital resources, contact your Digital Learning Coordinator.

Nearpod Available for All Students and Staff

Nearpod is a digital resource that allows teachers to develop interactive slides, videos, and activities to guide whole group or self-paced instruction. All teachers and students can access Nearpod through the Wake ID portal. 

Flip (Flipgrid) No Longer Available

On June 4, Flip (formerly Flipgrid) announced that it is retiring the product this fall. Starting July 1, the platform will be read-only. Users can download videos from the platform until September 30, 2024. If you are looking for a Flip alternative, WCPSS recommends using Canvas Discussions and selecting allow threaded replies. Students can record videos for one another via the Media Recording feature in the discussion response.

Jamboard Alternatives

Google is retiring Jamboard. On October 1, 2024, Jamboard will become read-only. Users will be able to access and export content as PDF or PNG files. On December 31, 2024, Jamboard will shut down completely and users will lose access to content. WCPSS staff should begin moving content from Jamboard to other platforms. For alternative suggestions, see Jamboard | Convert Content. 

Email Guidelines

As we begin another school year, here are a few reminders about expectations for use of WCPSS communication systems. 

• Wakemedia: Guide for Use

  • WCPSS school library media coordinators and other parties use the Wakemedia listserv for professional communication pertinent to our specific realm of work and responsibilities. 

  • Review the Wakemedia: Guide for Use as it outlines the guidelines for using this community listserv in a manner that is responsible and respectful of each other.

• Board Policy: 3225/4312/7320 Technology Responsible Use

  • As WCPSS employees, we all must adhere to board policies. In the Technology Responsible Use policy, we want to highlight the following rules in policy so as to protect all of us.

B. Rules for Use of Technological Resources

1. School system technological resources are provided for school-related purposes only. Acceptable uses of such technological resources are limited to responsible, efficient, and legal activities that support learning and teaching.  Use of school system technological resources for commercial gain or profit is prohibited.  Because some incidental and occasional personal use by employees is inevitable, the Board permits infrequent and brief personal use by employees so long as it occurs on personal time, does not interfere with school system business, and is not otherwise prohibited by Board policy or procedure.  The use of personal taglines or signature additions are not allowed on WCPSS email or other accounts.

2. Using Wake County Public School Systems computers, networks, or other technology resources to endorse or oppose referendum, election, or particular candidate for office, including but not limited to advocacy in support of or against school bond referenda or candidates for the Board of Education is prohibited.

Problem with Destiny?

If you’re experiencing an issue with Destiny, contact Stacy Symes (919-694-0279 or ssymes@wcpss.net) instead of calling Follett directly. WCPSS has specialized customer and technical support with Follett, which we can activate without going through generic tech support. 

Digital Learning & Libraries: Kick off the Year with Canvas

Start here! ABCs of Canvas

Get started with the ABCs of Canvas - a quick checklist to help you get Canvas courses ready for day 1 with students. 

Help Videos for Students - Elementary | Middle School | High School

These videos automatically link from the green Canvas Help button on your course Home page or Resources page.  

Canvas Expectations

WCPSS uses Canvas as its universal PreK-12 Learning Management System (LMS). During the 24-25 school year, all teachers are expected to use Canvas LMS to organize instruction and assessment and personalize learning. See Canvas Expectations for more information. For more support with Canvas, visit Canvas Learning Opportunities on WakeConnect.

Setting Up Grade Passback

Grade Passback is an optional tool for middle school and high school teachers. Once enabled, grades can be sent directly to PowerSchool Pro from the associated Canvas Course. Grade Passback can not be enabled until the first day of school, because students must be active in your course. To get started, see Grade Passback Set Up on WakeConnect.

Professional Learning Opportunities

Join your Friendly Neighborhood Digital Learning Coordinators for Districtwide Professional Learning Days! 

• Digital DIY: Remodel Your Class with District Digital Tools: Join our dynamic session to revamp your teaching approach with district-provided digital resources. Through hands-on exploration, attendees will learn innovative strategies to align with our district learning model and focus on elevating classroom engagement and effectiveness. 

• Canvas for Young Learners: Join us for a workshop on creating Canvas courses for young learners (grades K-2). This session is valuable for all educators aiming to make their courses more accessible. We'll cover effective course layouts, simplified navigation, and interactive assignments. By the end, you'll be ready to design Canvas courses that support the developmental needs of young learners' and more.

Continuing to grow in your own learning? Be on the lookout for links to come to enroll in asynchronous courses offered by your Digital Learning Coordinators.