Technology

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

• What computer specifications are required for the 2020-2021 school year?

  Student technology expectations have been expanded to include a pen/stylus input that can connect by USB to enable students to draw diagrams, annotate, and write on a collaborative digital whiteboard. View the 2020-2021 Technology Expectations and Laptop Requirements here.

• A stylus input is required for 2020. What kind of equipment meets this requirement?

  As first mentioned in Sage Hill’s current plan for reopening, student technology expectations have been expanded to include a pen/stylus input that can connect by USB to enable students to draw diagrams, annotate, and write on a collaborative digital whiteboard. You can watch Mr. Irwin demonstrate these tools in the Tech Expectations video. 

   

  The cheapest and most versatile option for this requirement (if you do not already own a stylus) is a USB-input tablet such as the Wacom Intuos 6”x7”. Examples: #1 With Shortcut Buttons/Amazon, #2 Without Shortcut Buttons/Amazon
  
  However, if students already possess (1) an iPad with Apple Pencil, (2) a Microsoft Surface with Pen, or (3) any of a number of Windows laptops that supports a stylus (e.g. HP Envy or Lenovo Yoga), these meet the requirement for a stylus input.
  
  (Note: The iPad does not meet the School’s Laptop Requirement but can be used as a stylus input. We recommend that students have not just a tablet but an actual laptop for school.)

• Why do students need a laptop for school?

  A laptop is a more robust, comprehensive tool for internet research, data analysis, multimedia projects/presentations, and word processing. Almost any device can access Canvas, Sage Hill’s online learning management system, but a laptop is better suited for the aforementioned more robust tasks.
  
  Mobile devices such as a smartphones or tablets are not sufficient tools to help our students master the research, media creation, writing, scientific modeling and computation skills they need to practice daily.

• Can my student bring an Android tablet or iPad instead?

  iPads, Kindle Fire, and other tablets do not meet this requirement, and have difficulty navigating Canvas and submitting assignments efficiently. Students are welcome to bring these mobile devices to campus next year, but they will also need to bring a laptop to each of their classes.
  
  (Note: The iPad does not meet the School’s Laptop Requirement but can be used as a stylus input, which is required for the 2020 school year to meet distance learning needs. We recommend that students have not just a tablet but an actual laptop for school.)

• What kind of laptop does my student need?

  Student laptops may be either Mac or PC, but must meet the standards in order to comply with the Laptop Requirement. Most computers manufactured in the last 2 years will meet these standards. (Please note the exception of netbooks and Google Chromebooks, which do not meet the requirement.)

  
  If you are unsure, you can check computer specifications using the methods described at www.wikihow.com/Check-Computer-Specifications.

• Does the laptop need to be brand new?

  The School does not require a brand new laptop! There are many options to find good, functional equipment at a discount.

• Do you have any suggestions about where to purchase refurbished or used laptops?

  Discounted Mac and PC laptops can be purchased from 2NDGEAR, a company offering Sage Hill students expertly refurbished equipment that includes a 90 day warranty. For more information and to purchase, please click here to see refurbished laptop specials or visit www.2ndgear.com/sage-hill.
  

  
  In addition, refurbished Macbooks can be purchased directly from the Apple Store at a small discount and come with a 1 year warranty (http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals/mac). Refurbished PCs can be purchased from Dell Outlet (http://www.dell.com/learn/us/en/22/campaigns/outlet), Best Buy (http://tinyurl.com/kwdtazx) and similar retailers.
  
  Be cautious about purchasing on eBay or from unknown sellers, who may not guarantee equipment or the safety/reliability of software.
  
  These are provided only as suggestions. Sage Hill School is not affiliated with any of the above providers, and makes no financial gains from any purchases made with these providers.

• What technical support is available on campus?

  The Sage Hill Technology Department provides assistance for students utilizing school resources. Help is available to assist students in connecting to on-campus internet and printers, and user support for our Learning/Classroom Management System, Canvas is also readily available.
  
  Help Desk is available during the school day. Students can visit the Tech Office in the Humanities building or the Library to request help as well. Anyone can email helpdesk@sagehillschool.org to create a ticket and ask for assistance with school-related issues. Unfortunately, repairs or warranty are not available on campus.