New Teacher Technology Guide 

Welcome to the Gill-Montague Public School District Technology Department. This guide serves as a foundational reference for new teachers and staff to navigate district technology systems, administrative workflows, data privacy protocols, and classroom digital tools.

Section 1: Identity & Account Access

Secure and efficient access to digital tools is essential for modern teaching and administrative responsibilities. All staff members are issued centralized district credentials upon onboarding.

1.1 Primary Account Credentials

Your primary district account grants access to email, cloud storage, single sign-on (SSO) accounts, and professional learning systems.

• Google Workspace: Used for district email, shared Google Drive storage, collaborative documents, and staff communications.
• Single Sign-On (SSO): District-approved apps and instructional software are accessed through Google SSO.
• Password Management & Security: Passwords must NOT be shared.  If you believe your account has been compromised, please contact support for a password reset.
• GMRSD.us vs GMRSD.org : 

Section 2: Student Information System (SIS), Gradebook, Teacher, Student, & Parent Portals

The Student Information System (SIS) is the official record system for attendance, student demographics, grading, schedules, and official communication. We currently utilize AdminPlus.com by Rediker used by the administrators and main office/s. The gradebook our PK -12 teachers use is called TeacherPlus Gradebook. And for Teachers, Students, and Parents/Caregivers, a portal called PlusPortals is provided. 

2.1 SIS Overview & Daily Workflows

• Attendance Verification: Attendance must be recorded daily.  Please connect with your building admin on school policy.
• Gradebook & Progress Reports: Teachers are expected to update grades/skills in PlusPortals.  Please connect with your building admin on school policy.
• Student Health & Accommodation Records: Please connect with your building admin regarding health and accommodation information.  Each school has a separate policy.

2.2 Family Communication Protocols

District-approved parent communication tools should be used for all non-routine family outreach to ensure archived and translated communications.

Section 3: Data Privacy, Security & Compliance

Massachusetts school districts operate under federal and state regulations governing student data privacy, including FERPA, COPPA, and state data protection frameworks.

3.1 Massachusetts Student Data Privacy Framework

Teachers must ensure that any software, app, or website used has a signed Student Data Privacy Agreement (SDPA) registered with the Massachusetts Student Data Privacy Alliance (MSDPA).

3.2 Acceptable Use & Classroom Compliance Guidelines

• Data Vetting Process: Before introducing a new web application or digital tool in class, search the District Approved Tool Registry. If unapproved, submit a vetting request through this link – Request a resource
• Personally Identifiable Information: Never upload student full names, state ID numbers, or photographs to unauthorized third-party platforms or generative AI tools.
• Acceptable Use Policy (AUP): Review the district policy for AUP and Student Chromebook Agreement.

Section 4: Hardware & Classroom Technology

Every classroom is equipped with standardized instructional technology to facilitate interactive teaching and learning.