Technology

List of 11 frequently asked questions.

• What kind of device can my student bring to MDSA?

  The MDSA requirements for student devices can be found here: device requirements.

• Why not a Macbook, Chromebook, or Android?

  This is not a decision we took lightly or in haste. We visited and surveyed nearly a dozen local schools. Mount de Sales also spent a considerable amount of time discussing and debating the issue to determine what is best for our students. Some of the primary reasons for deciding on Windows are:

  1. Windows is a single device solution. Many schools we visited that used a “companion device” such as Android or Chromebook also required the student to have a traditional PC at home.
  2. Our school utilizes ClassPolicy for its classroom and instructional management software. ClassPolicy on Windows allows for the highest level of instructional management and security. Instructional functionality for ClassPolicy on other operating systems is greatly reduced.
  3. USB: Many of the tablet or companion devices lack USB support. Having USB greatly expands the educational uses of these devices. With USB students can use Flash drives, cameras, science probes, printers, scanners, and more.
  4. The school is already standardized on Microsoft Windows. Consistency in the classrooms allows for more effective classroom instruction. By using Windows we can guarantee that all software we currently use on campus can continue to be used. Additionally, our faculty, staff, and students are already familiar Microsoft Windows products.

• What computer software does the school provide?

  As a Microsoft Showcase School, MDSA provides every student with the Microsoft Suite and Office 365. Some classes will require students to use specific software, like Photoshop, and the school will provide this software to those students. 

• Do I need to buy antivirus software?

  All MDSA devices are required to run on Windows 10. Windows 10 operating systems come with a virus protection called Microsoft Defender Antivirus which is the anti-malware component of Windows computers.

• How will teachers make sure students are not abusing technology privileges in class?

  1. MDSA employs a state-of-the-art content filtering system.
  2. MDSA proactively monitors new content areas that need to be filtered.
  3. MDSA actively monitors student internet usage.
  4. MDSA teachers are all trained to use ClassPolicy in their classrooms. This classroom management and instructional software not only allows teachers to see students’ computer screens but also enhances the classroom instructional experience.   Some key features of ClassPolicy:
     • View all students’ screens at once
     • Launch and lock to specific applications 
     • Restrict / limit web browsing 
     • Interactive polling
     • Testing Mode 
     • "Eyes to the front of the class"
     • Share and collect files
     • Monitor battery life

• Is a keyboard required?

  It is required, but it may be a detachable keyboard.

• Is a touch screen with stylus required?

  Though it is not required, this functionality is strongly recommended.

• I forgot my tablet at home. What do I do?

  Students can borrow a school loaner tablet from the Library. See the Borrowing a Tablet FAQ link in the Helpful Link section of this page.

• My tablet is malfunctioning/I forgot my password/I can't access the internet. What do I do?

  The Help Desk is the first stop for student computer issues! If a student's device runs into some trouble, they can communicate directly with the Help Desk by stopping by the Help Desk during the school day or by emailing the Help Desk at helpdesk@mountdesales.org and providing a detailed description of the problem.

• How do parents log-in to MDSA accounts/apps?

  Visit the Parents' page for instructions.

• Have additional questions?

  Contact our Technology Help Desk at helpdesk@mountdesales.org.