The McMinnville School District is offering a new service to help parents monitor their child’s use of their school-issued Chromebooks, finding additional internet provider options for families, and increasing local wireless capacity. Free WiFi
The district is working to expand the wireless capacity at our schools and other locations to provide outdoor access. Click to see maps of WiFi spots near our schools or to find a Comcast hotspot or WiFi network near you.
We are also developing a process for families to reserve the use of some limited spaces inside our buildings for those who live in areas inaccessible to the internet. Details will be shared when that process is firm.
Internet Monitoring Service
The district uses an Internet filter called Securly to help keep students safe while using their school-issued Chromebooks. With input from parents, the district has expanded access of this service for home use. Families can now access Securly Home, a feature that allows visibility and control of their child’s internet access at home.
Features include:
Weekly Updates – Families will receive weekly emails that summarize their child’s previous week of internet activity and searches. They will also be able to see any content that was flagged for bullying, self-harm or suicide.
Real-Time Usage Review – Families who want real-time information about their child’s internet use can access the Securly parent portal or download the Securly Home app on their mobile device.
Controls and Filters – The parent portal and Securly Home app will also give families the ability to modify some internet filter settings during times the Chromebook is being used off-campus. For example, if parents want the Chromebook turned off at 7 p.m. each night, they can set an offline schedule in the Securly Home app.
Families can find more details by clicking this informational flyer (Spanish) or sign up for this service by clicking the sign-up form.
Internet Options for Families in Need
The district is working with several local Internet Service Providers to provide low-cost or no-cost connectivity options to families who qualify for free/reduced lunch during Comprehensive Distance Learning.
Families are encouraged to contact their school to learn more about these options and which options they may qualify for. The providers that the district are working with are:
Comcast
OnlineNW
T-Mobile
Verizon
Ziply Fiber (Frontier)
To start the process of receiving low- or no-cost internet access, please apply for meal benefits. You must also fill out the waiver form, which may allow families to access other services as well.
August 26, 2020