LTAC Meeting Notes - September 18

LTAC (Learning Technology Advisory Committee) met on September 18. Moravia, Auburn, Port Byron and Union Springs representatives attended.

Roundtable discussion included reports from the districts. Moravia reported that they now have layer 3 switches and are using the RIC firewall. Union Springs is changing to VOIP. Auburn replaced core switches and fiber. They are using School Messenger and reported it worked well with the school closing on Monday. Port Byron realigned to a K-6 and 7-12 configuration. They purchased I-Macs to replace PCs.

Tecnology plans were discussed. Additions to plans for the year beginning July 2009 need to be submitted by October. Budgets for 2009-10 need to be submitted by October 1. Kathy Smith, E-rate person from OCM BOCES will join us prior to the next meeting to discuss e-rate requirements.

Tony discussed the data network and the RIC to RIC connection. We are hearing that it will be active soon and that it will have access to Internet 2. Internet 2 requires IP6 at the building level. It was mentioned that the shaper at the CNYRIC doesn't seem to be working and that DOTs need more training.

Distance Learning is running 5 courses which is up from last year. Polycoms are available in the 7 districts in the distance learning co-ser.

Ann addressed the start of the school year with 3 more buildings on OPALS. Everyone thought that the download of student information from SIS was very efficient.

Tony and Linda explained NovaNet. The purchase order has been sent and training will be scheduled as soon as possible. Port Byron, Union Springs and Jordan-Elbridge have signed on.

Tony talked about an announcement system that would allow the server to be shared. Each building could have a monitor and have control of the announcements, cable TV, etc, which will appear on the screens. More information will coming.

Tony announced that the Seward House in Auburn now has a Polycom and FIOS so they are able to host videoconferences. They are considering purchase of a WI-FI video camera which would allow them to move around the House for videoconferences.

The next meeting is scheduled for October 16. Kathy Smith will join the group at 9 AM for the e-rate requirements. Superintendents and business officials will be invited. The regular meeting will be from 10-12. Jennifer Fosegan from NovaNet has been asked to attend to answer any questions.