NOCONA

Technology

GOAL:

NISD will provide a fully equipped infrastructure and secure network that gives users electronic learning resources with timely access to rich media, storage and sufficient bandwidth to  provide and promote anytime anywhere learning.

Malissa Swofford - Technology Director

malissa.swofford@noconaisd.net

The NISD Technology Department supports and maintains over 900 Internet-accessible workstations and laptops, 45 Epson Interactive Boards, 12 servers, Internet access, routers – access points, switches, computer projectors, scanners, digital cameras, network laser printers, desktop printers, and all District software.  In addition, we maintain a 1:1 middle school and high school campuses with Chromebooks for each student.  Each elementary school classroom K-5 has a 1:1 Chromebook issued for each student in the classroom.  Each PK classroom has Chromebooks for its centers.

Their Local Area Network (LAN) covers several miles will both fiber optic and category 5 cable.  The backbone of this network is both multimode and single-mode fiber, and all facilities have access to the network and wireless internet services.

They conduct new employee technology orientation, in-house workshops for educators, customized training, and support integration of Technology into the curriculum.

They configure and set up all new technology equipment. Other equipments associated with the network are security cameras, secure door access, and thermostats.  

They also respond to daily requests for assistance and troubleshooting all devices and software programs.  The Technology Department takes pride in trying to fix most computer problems the same day as they are submitted.

Finally, the Tech Department maintains state and federal compliance with the FERPA, COPPA, and SLC ERATE programs.

Getting the Most for Your Money

Since Texas is a large state, several organizations in the state, representing schools and governments, have been given special pricing on technology as well as all other products.  The Director of Technology has a list of these bids and can contact a sales representative promptly when purchases are to be made. 

The Director of Technology should always assist with the purchase of Technology equipment and software. She can usually locate either the exact equipment required or find a suitable equivalent for it at a reduced price.

There are three main bids that cover most purchases.  They are DIR, TCPN, and TIPS.  DIR covers most products made by Hewlett-Packard.  TIPS covers most software titles, while TCPN covers most computer manufacturers.