April 13, 2020

 Dear Parents,

 As we continue to refine our remote learning opportunities for students, we wanted to update you on a new feature available through Google that we will begin to implement in the coming weeks, Google Meet.

Throughout the school closure, our teachers have continued to look for ways to connect with students through online communications and virtual lessons.  As you may have been following the news, teleconferencing has faced some concerns regarding student safety and privacy issues. Because of this, we have advised teachers to avoid real-time live video conferencing, but rather post pre-recorded lessons and communicate through our approved tools such as Google Classroom, Nearpod, and Flipgrid. However, we now have great news! Google has addressed the needs and concerns raised by educators and has made some significant updates to Google Meet.

 These new updates will allow our teachers to provide some live video conferencing and instruction in a more secure environment. The updates include the ability to do the following: 

1.    Google Meet will be accessed in your child’s Google Classroom.

2.    Students cannot join a Meet without the teacher present.

3.    The teacher can remove a student from the Meet.

4.    The teacher can mute a student.

5.    The District has set roles allowing only teachers to create a Meet using school accounts.

6.    Student accounts will be able to participate in the teacher’s Meet but not able to create a Meet.

7.    The teacher can turn on, turn off, and reset links to a Meet.

8.    The teacher will record the Meet for possible viewing at a later time.

One of the primary goals as we have transitioned to an online learning environment is to create an online academic setting that protects student safety. Please check out our district website for a list of Laveen Authorized Educational Media tools available for teachers to use online with students.

https://www.laveenschools.org/departments/technology/parent-technology/

Google Meet is a District approved teleconferencing tool that teachers may begin using the week of April 13th.

While we expect our students to participate in these remote learning activities to the greatest extent they reasonably can, students will not be penalized if they are unable to fully participate or are limited by the online format. Please continue to communicate with your child’s teacher about his or her specific learning needs.

The Student Code of Conduct for using Google Meet is included with this letter. Please review this information with your child prior to allowing him or her to join a teacher’s Meet. We appreciate your partnership in educating our children.

Sincerely,

Jessica Epacs, Principal

Student Code of Conduct 

Google Meet is an approved video conferencing tool that your teacher may use to:

  • Deliver live lessons

  • Check-in with you and your class

  • Allow you to connect with your classmates

  • Allow you to answer and ask questions

Teachers are only able to create a Google Meet.  Students cannot create their own Google Meet.

Getting Ready for your Google Meet

  • Ask your parent or guardian for permission to participate.

  • Use a fully charged device with a camera and microphone.

  • Test the camera and microphone before the Meet.

  • Dress appropriately.  Others will be able to see you when your camera is on.

  • Choose a quiet space with a comfortable chair and as little background noise as possible so you can focus on the session.

  • If there is background noise in your area, use a headset that has a microphone.

  • Be prepared and have your documents already open.

Now you are ready to join the Meet!

Participating in your Google Meet

  • It’s okay to say hello to your teacher, then mute your microphone.

  • Your microphone should be muted whenever you are not speaking. 

    • This will reduce background noise.

    • This will limit distractions.

  • Adjust your camera so you feel comfortable or turn it off if it is distracting.

  • Listen to your teacher like you would if you were in the classroom.

  • Use the emoji buttons in the left-hand corner to participate in the Meet.

  • Use the microphone and chat as directed by your teacher.

  • Use the chat and the microphone to participate as instructed by your teacher.

Digital citizenship is especially important while in a Google Meet.  Be respectful of yourself, your teacher, and your classmates and you will enjoy using Google Meet!  

Acceptable Use Guidelines

  • Your teacher will be recording the Meet so other class members that missed the Meet can watch it.

  • Listen to and follow instructions.

  • Participate when and how your teacher directs you to.

  • Listen to and respect the contributions of others.

  • Share information that is useful and supportive.

  • Use appropriate, supportive language.

  • Use technology tools and resources for the learning purposes they are meant for.

  • Never retrieve, send or display offensive images or messages, insult, threaten or harass others. 

  • Report issues to your teacher or parent immediately.