New Employee Technology Onboarding

New Employee Technology Onboarding

Welcome to The State College Area School District! To help ease you into your new role in the district, we’ve compiled a handy list of frequently asked questions. If you can’t find answers here, feel free to browse the rest of our knowledge base using the search bar above.

In addition to the FAQs, you will find descriptions of the most used systems at SCASD below. We’ve also included links to our Knowledge Base articles on each subject.

Getting to know your laptop

Two-factor authentication - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/0oAWJ

Duo is SCASD’s multi-factor authentication solution. When you log on to your Macbook (as well as many district approved websites), you will use your Smartphone to approve the log in attempt. This vastly improves security for your SCASD account and is required for all district employees.

You can download the Duo app for iPhone and Android devices. An IT Services technician will work with you to configure the app for your device.

Jamf Self Service Portal - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYCnVg

Jamf is the Mobile Device Management solution for Mac devices at SCASD. While this allows the IT department to remotely configure and update your device, this also allows you to install apps from our catalog.

Installing Printers - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/SR/pages/602636348

Printing is handled a bit differently than you may be used to on your Macbook. SCASD uses software that will detect which building you’re located in and provide the appropriate printers. Once in a building, you must open the software, select the printers you would like to use, and install them. Once a printer is installed, you will be able to use it even if you move buildings. You can also add your home printer’s per your manufacturer’s recommendation.

Password Manager - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/CgDGWQ

Apple’s Passwords app is a built-in tool that helps users securely manage login credentials across all Apple devices—no third-party apps required. The Apple Passwords app offers a streamlined and secure way to manage login credentials across all your Apple devices. It centralizes everything—from passwords and passkeys to Wi-Fi logins and verification codes—into one easy-to-access location. When signing into websites or apps, the app can automatically fill in saved credentials using AutoFill, saving time and reducing errors. It also includes a built-in password generator that suggests strong, unique passwords when creating new accounts or updating old ones. To help maintain good security hygiene, the app alerts users to weak, reused, or compromised passwords and offers recommendations to improve them. Access to the app is protected by Face ID or Touch ID, ensuring that only authorized users can view or manage sensitive information.

Everything Google

Logging into Chrome - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/QoDhIw

SCASD uses Google Chrome as our primary web browser. A significant number of websites used work with Single Sign On (SSO), meaning your sign in for the web browser will also sign you in to those sites. You can also sync your account to your web browser, allowing you to move bookmarks and history between devices.

Accessing district email - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/QADbIw

Gmail is the primary email client used with your SCASD account. In fact, your @scasd.org account doubles as a Gmail account! You can access your Gmail through your Chrome browser on your Macbook, or easily add your account to the built in mail or Gmail mobile app.

How to handle suspicious emails - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/JYDbIw

If you get a suspicious email in SCASD Google Mail, open it and use the dropdown menu to select “Report Spam” for unwanted messages or “Report Phishing” if it tries to steal personal info. You can also click the “Phish Alert” button and hit “Report” to flag it. This helps protect your account and the district’s network.

Backing up files with Google Drive - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/dQHYIw

Google Drive is a cloud-based storage service that lets users securely store, share, and access files from any internet-connected device. It works seamlessly with Google Workspace apps like Docs, Sheets, and Slides, allowing for real-time collaboration. Drive supports various file types and includes powerful search tools to help organize and locate content easily

Online Resources

Accessing online district resources - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/EYC-JQ

ClassLink Launchpad is a single sign-on platform that simplifies access to educational resources for students and faculty. With one login, users can access all their web applications, files, and cloud storage, streamlining the digital learning experience. ClassLink Launchpad enhances productivity by reducing the need for multiple passwords and providing a centralized hub for educational tools and resources.

Changing your Password - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYDsIw

This guide provides instructions on how to change the password for a SCASD Account and outlines password requirements.To change your SCASD Account password, visit myaccount.microsoft.com, sign in, and navigate to the password section.Password requirements differ for standard and privileged users, with privileged users needing a minimum of 10 characters and stricter reuse restrictions.A strong password should be irregular, complex, and unpredictable, avoiding common words or easily guessed information.Passwords must not be reused for 4 generations for standard users and 6 generations for privileged users.

Time, attendance, and absence management - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/IAATPw

Frontline Insights, is a comprehensive web-based system designed to manage teacher absences and substitute assignments in schools. It allows educators to report their absences conveniently online and the platform efficiently assigns qualified substitutes to ensure that classes are always covered. The system helps improve fill rates, manage leave effectively, and integrates seamlessly with other software systems used by schools.

PowerSchool - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AQCCIg

PowerSchool, primarily known as a student information system (SIS), also offers modules and functionalities that cater to the needs of human resources (HR) and finance departments in educational institutions. While PowerSchool's core focus is on managing student data, it provides additional tools to assist HR and finance departments in their respective functions.

How to get in contact with students and parents - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYBNJg

ParentSquare is a comprehensive communication platform designed to enhance engagement between the school district, employees, and parents. It facilitates seamless communication through email, text, and app notifications, ensuring everyone stays informed and connected.

Putting in Facilities requests - https://scasd.gofmx.com/login?referrer=%2Fmaintenance-requests%3Fstatuses%3D1

GoFMX is a versatile platform used for scheduling rooms in district buildings and managing specific work orders for the physical plant. Staff can reserve spaces for meetings or events, check for conflicts, and coordinate usage across facilities. Additionally, GoFMX allows the physical plant to receive and track detailed work orders—such as repairs, installations, or operational tasks—ensuring efficient communication and timely completion of facility-related projects

At home in your building

How to use the technology in the classroom - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/EIAaNw

This section will assist users using the various A/V systems across the district. This can range from School Auditoriums, the Performing Arts Center (PAC), to the broad room at Panorama Village. This section is intended for those using the quick-perform functions.

Connecting a personal phone to the building wifi - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/MgC2KQ

Each employee can connect one iOS or Android device to the SCASD-Enterprise networkIf you get a new phone, you must submit a ticket with IT Services to connect it to the network. To connect an iPhone, use the JoinNow feature and follow the steps to install the necessary profile. For Android phones, download the JoinNow app, sign in with your SCASD Google account, and follow the prompts to connect. If the certificate is removed, a Help Desk ticket is required to validate it again.

Emergency Alert and crisis management - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AgCpPg

The Raptor Alert System is a comprehensive emergency management tool designed for schools. It enables staff to quickly and efficiently communicate during emergencies through real-time alerts and notifications. The system supports various types of alerts, such as lockdowns, evacuations, and medical emergencies, ensuring that the right information reaches the right people promptly. By integrating with other safety systems, Raptor Alert helps schools maintain a coordinated and effective response to any crisis, enhancing overall school safety.

Having tech troubles? - https://scasd.atlassian.net/wiki/x/BYBaV

The SCASD Help Desk ticket system allows faculty and staff to report tech issues quickly and efficiently. After signing in with Google, users choose the category that best fits their problem and fill out all fields in the form. Providing detailed info helps IT resolve issues faster. The system ensures requests are properly routed and tracked for timely support.