Winter Break - Unplugged (and Plugged)

Winter Break is zipping towards us, and in our commendable zest to save the district some money and keep the planet greener, we’ve adopted the tradition of unplugging everything before we dash off to enjoy Winter Break. However, the Technology & Innovation Department—in partnership with our Buildings & Grounds Department—asks that you please leave 3 things plugged IN over the break:

PLEASE LEAVE PLUGGED IN

• TVs mounted in the wall
• Apple TVs
• Printers

Why?

It may seem counterintuitive to leave “unused” equipment plugged in, but all of these devices are designed with low-energy modes when not in use that can be accessed remotely over the network for maintenance. For example, both Apple TV and ViewSonic TV devices run network-based operating systems that we will be able to update over Winter Break. 

We have also observed that these devices sometimes do not connect to Wi-Fi flawlessly after being unplugged for long periods of time. Further, our network printer system needs to “check in” with a centralized system several times each day, and prolonged disconnections can delete their settings. 

Thus, if these devices are unplugged, future tech support issues are likely to arise and the Tech Department can’t perform maintenance behind the scenes.

Ready for the New Year

By keeping your TVs, Apple TVs, and printers powered on and connected, you’re not generating a huge electrical bill, you’re making a small, vital investment in headache prevention. You'll ensure your technology is updated, configured, and ready to spring into action—no troubleshooting required—the moment you and your students walk back through the doors in January. 

And one more thing...

Both Station and Prairie are getting TV upgrades this Winter Break.

Enjoy your well-deserved break!