Middle School Technology
In 2003, The York School created our Department of Learning, Innovation and Technology (LIT) and quickly became a leader in innovative and meaningful integration of technology across the curriculum. Our teachers are continuously searching for new ways to enrich their subject areas with engaging tools and learning experiences. To that end, The York School invests heavily in professional development for teachers and technology support staff, as well as the equipment necessary to support learning and growth across the board.
School-Owned Chromebook program
All Middle School students are loaned a school-owned Chromebook as an important part of their Middle School learning toolkit. The cost of the laptop is included in the yearly tuition. The Chromebook is easy to use and can be easily managed and supported remotely by the school LIT Team. Students will receive their Chromebook in the first week of school, and orientation will be provided at that time.
For students new to the Middle School, the MYP Design and Homeroom classes are used for technology skill development and intentional time to learn and familiarize themselves with our various teaching and learning platforms. No matter what level of technology comfort our students come in with, we ensure there is lots of support along the way.
Powered by Google, Supported by Blackboard
The York School is powered by the Google Suite of educational apps and tools, as well as the Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS). This toolkit gives our students, teachers, and staff everything they need to stay connected and supported through technology, no matter what form the school year may take. Google accounts and apps can be accessed from anywhere, and in the Fall students will receive school-managed course folders for Google Drive that serve as their primary personal storage for all academic materials. Blackboard further supports this connectivity as a learning portal that provides students with personalized access to unit materials, assignments, research tools and course announcements. At the beginning of each academic year, parents are given “observer” role accounts so that they can follow along with the learning, homework and assignment due dates. Sign-in information for Blackboard is sent to parents in the summer, but as a general rule the username is firstname+lastname (“johnsmith”) and the password is the first 5 digits of your school accounting number. For further questions about Blackboard or to get help, please contact the I.T. Help Desk Desk at 416-926-1325 ext. 1204 or Neil Moir.
I.T. Support
Our success as innovators requires a high degree of technical support. We have resources in place to ensure that all of our programs run smoothly. We take responsibility for assisting students as they navigate through the complexities and challenges of their online experience by developing their digital citizenship. Support can be engaged by emailing helpdesk@yorkschool.com