IT News and Notes - March 2022

iPads, AirServer and Explain Everything

As we have moved away from the use of SMART Boards in the district, many teachers have found a new way to take advantage of their Teacher iPad. Using the iPad and air playing to the MacBook while using the app Explain Everything has been a powerful way to share content in the classroom. To get started follow these steps:

On your MacBook, go to Self Service and download AirServer. You will be required to activate this program. In the prompts it will share that the activation code is: it@mentorschools.org. You will see an Air Server icon (shown to the right) in the top toolbar on your MacBook. Click on this, and then Preferences to rename your Computer. Also, change your AirPlay Security to Onscreen Code.
Connect your MacBook to your projector / TV.
On your iPad, go to Self Service and download the Explain EDU app.
On your iPad, swipe down from the right hand corner and select screen mirroring. Choose your Computer Name from the list. You should now see your iPad projecting onto your MacBook.
Open Explain EDU on your iPad. Start your exploration

Once in the Explain EDU app, you can choose a New Project / Blank Canvas. Explore the toolbar on the left that gives you a writing / shape tools. Also, check out the top icon (paper with a plus) to access the camera, clip art and even your entire Google Drive. The possibilities are endless when you pair the iPad, MacBook and Explain Everything all together!

Infinite Campus Messenger

Last month, we shared with you some of the basics of getting started with Infinite Campus Messenger. This month since grades are due, we thought you could use a quick video reminder of how to check to make sure all of your grades are posted properly. Please watch this short, one minute video from Tracy highlighting this process. Just click on the grade book image.

GIF of the Month

Each month our IT Techs will share a GIF to remind you of an important item related to Technology in Mentor. This month's GIF is for illustrating what Todd shares in his IT Tips and Tricks - Mirroring and Extending Displays. Please take note this is for the updated Monterey OS. Please make sure you update your Macbook!

IT Tips and Tricks

In IT Tips and Tricks this month, Todd shares how to either Mirror your display or Extend your display. This is a helpful strategy when you want to share one piece of information with your class and still be working on your MacBook. Check out the video by clicking on Tips and Tricks to the right!

A Little IT Humor!

Doug always manages to keep things light around our office so we thought we would have him share some IT Humor each IT News and Notes with you! Recently, we have brought some focus to our passwords. Considering having a Password Phrase has become a good practice so a haiku may not be too far off!