August 2005 — Applications
Print this articleClick here to receive your FREE subscription to T.H.E. Journal
Surviving a Communications Network Overhaul
Today, the school district has a corporate- style communications network, operating with super-fast Internet connections that aid student research and provide online distance learning capabilities. Alcatel and Verizon’s Enterprise Solutions Group (ESG) have built a converged IP telephony network that will carry voice, data, and eventually video, over one platform. Administrators, teachers, and students are already discovering the benefits of the new system, which include:
- Anytime, anywhere communication. The communications server provides connections between school administrators and teaching staff—in the classroom or on the playing field—via desktop computers, in-classroom phones, or wireless devices.
- Instant notifications and security alerts. The security application broadcasts messages to alert administrators and teaching staff via a phone voicemail inbox or computer pop-up screen.
- K-12-specific education applications. Alcatel’s education applications were developed specifically for K-12 and allow school districts to share knowledge and information as well as educational resources. Virtual classrooms connect students and teachers globally, and video streaming enables teachers to display clips from a central database.
Our school district looks to expand these new technological capabilities in thefuture. Wee have plans to replace old data gear with Alcatel switches, and connect homebound students with actual classroom sessions through visual conferencing and distance learning.
With the system we now have in place, we have achieved greater results to date than were projected for our day-to-day business and operations. The technology has also enabled more “open”communications and tools to make us more productive, efficient, and successful; most importantly, it has made the children entrusted to our care more safe.
Christopher W. McGinley is superintendent of the School District of Cheltenham Township in Pennsylvania.
Cite this Site
copy text (above) for proper citation
