IT News and Notes - January 2023

Looking Back / Planning Forward

As we start a new year, it's a good time to reflect on some of the IT topics from 2022 and provide a few additional resources as we look forward to an exciting 2023! So much of our focus over the last year has been on systems and data security. Topics such as password security, phishing campaigns, and screen lock have been covered in our IT News and Notes. We also highlighted programs like SeeSaw, Schoology, AirServer, and Explain Everything. There were also a number of articles on the improvements made to IC Messenger. The graphic below is a good reminder from CISA.gov on four simple steps everyone can take to be cyber-safe (all of which we have discussed and will continue to emphasize in our IT News and Notes in 2023.)

Chance for 2 MEAPS - Ohio Blended Collaborative (OBC)

A new year brings an opportunity to earn 2 MEAPS. On February 1st from 4:00-5:30, the OBC is having its first-ever Showcase. This virtual event will allow you to learn from teachers across the state about personalized/blended learning. Over the last seven years, Mentor has had over 80 educators involved in the OBC. Along with the teachers from Mentor, over 500 educators from across the state have participated in this professional learning experience. This event will expose you to ideas and practices these teachers have implemented because of the OBC. It will also provide you a snapshot of some of the content in case you would like to sign up for this year-long experience in the future. Here is a flyer with more information on the event. On the flyer, you will find the QR Code or link that you can use to sign up for the February 1st Showcase. (Please note on the flyer that it has 1.5 hours for MEAPS, it will be 2 for Mentor teachers by completing a brief follow-up form) You can find a description of the sessions here if you want more information. Consider the opportunity to earn 2 MEAPS and also learn from other educators across the state along with the five educators presenting from Mentor! Once signed up, you will receive a separate email closer to the date with the virtual conference link and MEAP information.

GIF of the Month

Each month our IT Techs will share a GIF to remind you of an essential item related to Technology in Mentor. This month's GIF is a reminder to submit IT Tickets. This ticket system allows for efficiency and quick repairs so that we have minimal downtime for devices/programs in the district.

IT Tips and Tricks

In IT Tips and Tricks this month, Todd shares how to clean up your personal contacts so that you have up-to-date information when sending a message or creating a calendar invite.

A Little IT Humor!

Over the past year, we have focused significantly on data security. Looking back, we have added 2 Factor Authentication, changed our password requirements, adjusted district-wide screen lock settings, and conducted phishing scam campaigns. Each one of these steps adds a layer of protection to our data.

Looking forward to 2023, we will continue to ensure our staff and student data are secure! Doug's comic this month relates back to the theme of security which will continue to be an emphasis in 2023!