prepare both staff and students for this rapidly changing and evolving world. Conversely, the district also maintains a thoughtful approach to screen time and device usage. While students have access to Chromebooks, there is a conscious effort to ensure that technology serves learning without creating distractions. For example, restricting cell phone use during class is one of the more challenging but ultimately effective initiatives that have been implemented at the middle and high school levels. On the operational front, investments have been made in cybersecurity to protect sensitive staff and student data, while maintaining resilient network infrastructure with redundancy. The district also systematically evaluates equipment needs, ensuring the right equipment is provided for specific grade levels and programs. “It’s easy to buy equipment, but what’s the right equipment for our students and staff? One way we will determine this is by creating a systematic approach that involves walkthroughs and audits in each of our classrooms to ensure we meet that need,” Rossing says. However, apart from the iPads, Chromebooks, and high-level laptops used by the students, the district’s technology extends to every facet of operations. From HVAC control to door security and bus GPS systems, the district’s technology is a powerful enabler, enhancing both learning and operational efficiency, without overwhelming the fundamental student experience. Overall, the future of the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District is characterized by a palpable sense of excitement. “I feel like we have tremendous momentum as an organization right now in all aspects of operation, whether that be teaching and learning, operations, communications, elevating student voice, or athletics,” Dr. Monogue comments, highlighting the district’s 306 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 08
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