Our search for an appropriate personal technology platform – user-friendly, cost-effective, portable, etc. – led us to the implementation of the MyTech program. Each high school student is issued an iPad along with a protective case and (optional) keyboard. Each wireless classroom is equipped with Apple TV and an HDMI projector.
Advantages:
- Enhance or accelerate learning
- Expand student skills and knowledge
- Improve classroom efficiency, leverage capabilities
- Extend learning beyond the classroom
- Open up new ways of learning, studying
- Encourage collaboration
Students are protected from inappropriate use of their device through a VPN-based content filtering system – and by a code of conduct outlined in our Student Handbooks.
GUIDED ACCESS
Guided Access helps students stay focused on a task while using an iPad. Guided Access limits a device to a single app and lets you control which app features are available.
MY TECH FEES
The MyTech fee (paid annually) not only contributes to the infrastructure and wireless connectivity needed to sustain our program, but it’s also used to make bulk purchases of apps (programs) essential for learning.
ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOK INFORMATION
A significant advantage of the iPad’s use in our high school is the availability of electronic textbooks. Electronic textbooks often include extra learning tools – e.g., the ability to highlight text, create quiz cards, or view videos on specific concepts – that are simply not possible on the printed page. We hope you will take some time to check out some of your student’s electronic books.
Instructions for ordering books are emailed to parents in August. Please see the St. Francis High School page for links to additional resources.
SPECIAL TEXTBOOK INSTRUCTIONS
AP Biology, Anatomy, AP Chemistry, Pre-Calculus, or Honors Pre-Calculus
In August, when the online bookstore opens, these classes will not have a book listed in the bookstore because the newest editions were priced close to $200 each or were no longer available. For that reason, we are asking you to purchase a used version on your own.
Anatomy
Hole’s Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology by David Shier, 10th Edition (ISBN: 9780072965636)
AP Biology
Biology, 7th Edition by Neil Campbell and Jane B. Reece (ISBN: 9780805367775)
Pre-CalculusPre-Calculus: Graphical, Numerical, and Algebraic by Franklin D. Demana, Bert K. Waits, Gregory D. Foley, and Daniel Kennedy (ISBN: 978-0132276504)
AP Chemistry
Chemistry, 9th ed by Steven and Susan Zumdahl (ISBN: 978-1-133-61110-3)
The AP Chemistry Workbook
Fast Trak to a 5: Preparing for the AP Chemistry Examination 9th Workbook by Steven Zumdahl (ISBN: 978-1133611516)
You are welcome to find used versions on your own, but we recommend buying one of two ways:
Amazon.com
GTACS Uniform & Book Exchange Facebook GroupAlternatively, you may purchase from a family whose student took the class this past year. You are welcome to use the GTACS Uniform & Book Exchange Facebook Group as a means of purchasing or selling the books listed above.