Frequently Asked Questions
What is G Suite for Education?
G Suite for Education is a suite of tools that allows students and teachers to collaborate in real-time to create documents, presentations, surveys, spreadsheets and even websites. All tools are free, ad-free, reliable and secure. They are available for use through an internet browser or by downloading the apps available in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. You can find more details about the tools we use on the G Suite tab.
Privacy is important to me and my family. What steps has TCA taken to ensure that student information is kept confidential?
Click here to visit our Parent/Student Privacy page to learn about Google's and Microsoft's privacy policies and other helpful resource for Digital safety.
Will all students/families be expected to use this platform?
Yes, all families will be expected to use this platform. At the same time, we recognize that students' needs with Google Classroom will vary from grade-to-grade, and we will be communicating various grade level specific and age appropriate uses to our teachers.
Will lower elementary students have accounts as well?
Lower elementary students (PK-3rd Grade) will have accounts, but the account information will not be communicated directly to them. Rather, we will be sending home the login information to the parents so that it can be used primarily as a parent communication tool. The rationale is that these are the accounts that each student will keep with them throughout their career at TCA, and it is best that every student/family gets comfortable with its use from the beginning.
Why was this platform chosen over others that are available?
A committee of teachers and administrators evaluated several different platforms and assessed them on usability, features, cost, and accessibility. Through these criteria, it was clear that Google Classroom was the correct choice for TCA.
Will Google Classroom be used all the time, or is it only for if distance learning becomes a necessity?
Classroom will be used whether we are engaged in brick-and-mortar instruction or distance learning. The features available through the platform will be a great benefit to families, students, and faculty members whether on campus or working from home.
Google Classroom is a new program. Will there be training for me and my student(s)?
Yes, there are several resources available. For starters, please check out this video and this video. You can also see the G Suite tab, Google Classroom Tools tab, or Google Meet Tools tab on this website for more links and information.
Will the expectations for UD and LD be the same in their use of Google Classroom?
No, the expectations for student use with the UD and LD will be different. Teachers at each level will be communicating their expectations with both students and parents.
Will I get email notifications when something is posted to my student’s account?
Yes, in your Parent Plus Portal account you have the option to sign up to receive daily or weekly email updates.