Technology Services & Integration

We inspire growth and success for all students. Our mission is to strategically integrate technology to amplify the goals of our district's Strategic Plan.

Focus Area 1: Holistic Learner Experience.
We believe that technology is not a replacement for teaching, but a powerful tool that when paired with strong pedagogy leads to exceptional academic growth, learning with purpose and relevance, and well-being.
The Technology Services Team and the Technology Integration Specialist (Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment) work collaboratively with educators, administrators, and the community to curate digital resources and integrate instructional practices that directly support the three pillars of the Holistic Learner Experience.

Learning with Purpose and Relevance
- What We Do: We equip classrooms with tools that ensure content is accessible to students and that facilitate communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
Exceptional Academic Growth
- What We Do: We select and support instructional technologies that offer personalized learning experiences, allowing students to master content at their own pace and educators to receive timely and actionable data. This helps teachers differentiate instruction and provide targeted interventions.
Student Well-being
- What We Do: We prioritize the use of digital platforms that promote safe, secure, and equitable access to learning resources.

About our Team

The Technology Services & Integration team is a dedicated group of specialists focused on bridging effective instructional practices with integrated technological implementation. We provide:

Professional Development and coaching for staff
Vetting and deployment of new hardware and software
Strategic planning for district-wide technology initiatives
Management of technologies and infrastructure

Our goal is simple: To ensure that technology serves as a seamless, powerful catalyst for achieving the GWSD vision of a Holistic Learner Experience for every student, every day.

Tech Fee Program

What is included in the K-12 Student Technology Package?

How much are annual technology fees?

When is the enrollment period for the technology fee program?

How do I pay the annual technology fee for my student(s)?

What does the technology fee cover?

What doesn’t the fee cover?

If you choose not to participate in the technology fee program, you will be responsible for the full cost of Chromebook replacement or repair:

Digital Tools

Through our 1:1 Device Program, every GWSD K-12 student is equipped with a Chromebook, ensuring equitable access to the digital tools necessary to become future-ready learners. The strategic deployment of these tools is designed to enhance the Holistic Learner Experience by transforming how students learn, demonstrate, and connect.

Direct Alignment to Strategic Focus Areas
Strategic Goal Alignment	How Our Digital Tools Support This Goal	Key Outcomes for Students
Exceptional Academic Growth	Personalized and Flexible Learning: Digital resources facilitate technology-enriched instruction that is customized and student-led, providing opportunities to meet the diverse needs of all learners at various stages of learning.	Students achieve exceptional academic growth through customized learning paths and timely, targeted feedback.
Learning with Purpose and Relevance	Authentic Expression and Demonstration: Tools are selected to allow students to demonstrate their learning in meaningful ways to authentic audiences, developing real-world communication skills.	Students find purpose and relevance by using industry-standard tools to create, publish, and present their work.
Student Well-being	Supportive and Safe Environments: Technology is used to facilitate secure communication channels and provide access to digital resources that support social-emotional learning (SEL) and digital citizenship. We ensure safe learning environments through robust 24/7 content filtering and web browning monitoring during school hours.	Students learn in supportive, safe environments that foster belonging and engagement while developing responsible digital habits.

Digital Tools Catalog

Vetting Process

If an educator does not find the resources they need in the catalog, they can request new apps, extensions, or web-based software/services by filling out the Digital Tools Request Form in ClassLink.
The vetting process includes:

discussion with your administration to assure alignment with your programs
review of privacy policies and terms of use
signing of Data Protection Agreements (DPAs) through the CASE Connective
assurance of accessibility through the CASE Connective
apps that have a cost will need to be purchased through school budget (budget code will be required for approval)

Once a request is made, it will go to a vetting committee that will assess the resource and approve or deny it based on pedagogical, technical, and legal criteria. Most requests are processed quickly.

Digital Safety & Wellness

The Gunnison Watershed School District is committed to upholding the promise of a safe and supportive learning environment, extending this commitment into the digital realm. We have adopted a transparent framework that ensures our digital tools are used responsibly, ethically, and securely. These agreements and policies—including our Student Safe and Responsible Use Agreements, AI Guidelines, Data Privacy Agreements, and compliance with the Student Data Transparency and Security Act—are foundational to achieving student well-being by fostering belonging, engagement, and the development of responsible digital citizenship for every student.

Policies & Agreements

GBEE - Staff Use of the Internet and Electronic Communications

JICJ - Student Use of Cell Phones and Other Personal Technology Devices

JICJ-R - Student Use of Cell Phones and Other Personal Technology Devices

JRCB* - Privacy and Protection of Confidential Student Information

JS - Student Use of the Internet and Electronic Communications

Elementary Student Safe and Responsible Use Agreement

Secondary Student Safe and Responsible Use Agreement

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping industries, careers, and daily life, making the ability to understand and ethically navigate AI tools a foundational skill for future success. In GWSD, we recognize that AI is not just a technology trend but a powerful catalyst for change that requires thoughtful engagement. By integrating safe and responsible AI practices into learning, we empower our students to move beyond being passive consumers of technology to become active, critical, and ethical contributors to a digitally advanced society. This ensures their learning remains relevant and that they develop the critical thinking and self-awareness necessary to thrive in the workforce and society.

AI Agreements

Data Privacy Agreements (DPAs)

Our Data Privacy Agreements (DPAs) are legally binding contracts with every third-party vendor who accesses student data, serving as the district's unwavering commitment to the Colorado Student Data Transparency and Security Act. These policies prioritize student well-being by proactively protecting personally identifiable information (PII) from misuse. Crucially, our DPAs forbid vendors from data mining PII, using it for targeted advertising, or selling it to outside parties. By defining clear requirements for data security, confidentiality, and secure destruction of records, we ensure that student information is used exclusively for educational purposes and is handled transparently and securely, safeguarding the trust of our students and families.

We work in partnership with the CASE Connective, a collaborative effort led by CASE/CALET and powered by EdTech Leaders Alliance ("ETLA") to reduce redundant vendor vetting, increase state compliance, and streamline student data privacy and accessibility processes in GWSD.

Student Data Transparency and Security Act

Gunnison Watershed School District holds data privacy and security in high regard and takes action to ensure that our students’ data is handled securely in compliance with the Colorado Student Data Transparency and Security Act (HB 16-1423) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Personally Identifiable Information Collected by Gunnison Watershed School District
In addition to the data collected by the Colorado Department of Education, Gunnison Watershed School District generally collects and maintains the following on its data systems:

Household Information
- Parent Name
- Address
- Email Address
- Phone Numbers
- Employer
Medical Information
- Health Conditions
- Immunizations
- Medications
- Vision and Hearing Screening
Academic Performance Data
- Assessments
- Learning Activities
- Transcripts
- Grades
Attendance
Learning Accommodations
Schedules
Athletics and Activities
School Meal Information
Disciplinary Incident Details
Currently Checked-out Media
Fees
Bus Transportation details
Account Access Logs
Communication Records

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child bring their own device to school?

Student-owned devices may not be used at GWSD schools. The GWSD 1-to-1 program ensures the following for our students:

Safe & Secure Digital Environment:
All district-issued devices are safe and secure on and off campus through GoGuardian via the Google Chrome web browser. GoGuardian is software that provides us with a powerful content filter, eliminates distractions and protects student mental health. GoGuardian on district-issued devices ensures we are protecting children, as outlined in The Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), by restricting log-ins to Chrome and @gwsds.net accounts. This guarantees content is filtered and web browsing is monitored during school hours on all student devices.

The Chromebooks have the same content filtering at home as they do at school. Just like at school, where our teachers are actively working with students and physically monitoring what students are doing with their technology, we need parents to be involved with their student's online behaviors. No filter is 100% accurate, nor a replacement for adult supervision, however, these security and safety features are in place for the health and well being of our students and are required by law.

If your student uses their GWSD issued account (@gwsds.net) to sign into a Chrome browser on a home computer, the content filtering will be applied to that browser (even on a personal device). If you want your student to have that filtered experience, just leave the student account logged in. If you do NOT want the browser filtered, then simply have the student use a different browser or log-in with a different account.

Tech and Instructional Support:
Offering exceptional service across disparate devices is a challenge. With our 1-to-1 model, our small Tech Services team will have the ability to push out security updates and provide technical support to all GWSD staff and students, and our teachers will be able to provide a consistent learning experience.

Theft and Damage Protection:
The GoGuardian platform offers additional theft protection on district-issued devices and the 1-to-1 program eliminates the risk of damaged or stolen personal devices while in GWSD buildings. This allows our administrators and teachers to focus on the physical health and safety, social and emotional well being, and academic achievement of our students.

Equity:
By providing a district-issued device to all GWSD preK-12 students, we create a safe and equitable environment for all students. Through standardization of products, we can eliminate digital inequality and better manage our 1-to-1 initiative.

What is GoGuardian?

GoGuardian provides 24/7 content filtering and web-browsing monitoring for our students from 7:30AM-5:00PM.

How can I support my child while they use their Chromebook?
The following website categories are blocked on GWSD student Chromebooks:

Academic Dishonesty
Aggressive Behavior
Artificial Intelligence Tools (excluding district approved tools such as Brisk for secondary students)
Controlled Substances
Entertainment (including movie streaming, YouTube blocked for K-12 students)
Gaming (excluding educational games)
Malicious Sites
Pornography
Sexual
Social (such as social networking sites)
Time Wasting
Uncategorized (K-8, includes many additional gaming websites)

GoGuardian Parent offers a summary of student browsing, blocks inappropriate/explicit websites, and allows parents to pause internet access while the device is at home. If you would like to sign up for GoGuardian Parent, please email Katie Gallagher at kgallagher@gunnisonschools.net. Please include your first and last name, the first and last name(s) of your child(ren), your email address and your phone number.

What is ClassLink?

Can students access generative AI tools in GWSD?

Currently three generative AI tools are vetted and approved for student use. All three tools require the engagement of the student’s teacher and provide guardrails for student use.

Brisk - we have a district-wide subscription for our secondary teachers to use with students
MagicStudent - the free version is available for teachers to use with students
SchoolAI - the free version is available for teachers to use with students

Do we allow students access to YouTube in GWSD?

At this time, direct access to the YouTube website and app is blocked for K-12 students on all district-managed Chromebooks (or when students are logged into their @gwsds.net account on any device).

Why is YouTube blocked? While YouTube contains a vast library of high-quality educational content, it is primarily a commercial entertainment platform. We have made the decision to restrict access for three primary reasons:

Student Safety: YouTube’s algorithm is designed to keep users watching. This can sometimes lead students toward age-inappropriate content, unvetted advertisements, or "rabbit holes" that are not suitable for a K-12 environment.
Minimizing Distractions: To maintain an effective learning environment, we limit access to platforms that offer non-educational distractions like gaming streams, music videos, and social media commentary during school hours.
Data Privacy: As a district, we prioritize protecting student data. Unrestricted access to commercial platforms often involves data tracking and targeted advertising that does not align with our privacy standards for minors.
Terms of Use: YouTube's Terms of Use states users need to be at least 13 years old to use the service.
Confirmed Parental Consent: Users under 18 can no longer access Additional Google Services (including YouTube) without confirmed parental consent, which we are not able to obtain for all 9-12 students.

Can students still watch educational videos? Yes! We recognize that video is a powerful learning tool. Teachers have the ability to curate and share specific, vetted educational videos through platforms like Google Classroom. This allows students to view necessary instructional material without the distractions of the full YouTube interface.

Chromebook Troubleshooting

Gunnison Watershed School District Tech Services will not be available over the summer for tech support. Chromebook repairs will resume at the start of the new school year.

What are some troubleshooting tips for a device not working correctly?

What are some Chromebook tips and tricks?

What are some troubleshooting steps for connecting to wifi?

Restart Chromebook
Turn toggle wifi off (and then toggle back on)
Remove preferred networks - then choose preferred network to connect

This video shows you the steps for the above.

Summer Chromeboooks

Gunnison Watershed School District would like to provide a list of some suggested recommendations and best practices for use of Chromebooks over the summer months. To review the Student Safe & Responsible Use Agreement, please select the appropriate link below:
K-5th Grade Student Safe & Responsible Use Agreement
6th-12th Grade Student Safe & Responsible Use Agreement

Summer Care

For students who are not planning on using their device over the summer months, we recommend storing it in a safe and secure location (somewhere you remember), along with the charging cable, so that it will be easy to find and charge once school starts back up in August.

For students who are planning on using their device over the summer, we ask that you follow the best practices outlined below, which will help to ensure that district-issued Chromebooks are ready to go once the 2024-2025 school year begins:

Always Use Two Hands While Carrying Your Chromebook - Carrying your Chromebook with two hands helps to ensure that it does not get dropped, which often results in a broken screen.
Use Your Chromebook on a Flat Surface - Whenever possible, using a Chromebook on a flat surface, like a table or desk can help to reduce the risk of it falling or otherwise getting damaged. This can also help to keep the device cooler, especially during the summer, which can help to reduce the possibility of the device “thermal throttling”, or slowing down, due to excessive heat.
Enjoy Your Snacks and Drinks Elsewhere - Any time you are taking a break to grab a drink or to munch on a snack, please do so away from your Chromebook. Any food crumbs or liquid splashes could damage the internal parts of your device. As a result, we recommend that you keep food and drinks away from your Chromebook at all times.
Charge the Chromebook using the Original Charging Cable - While other, third-party, charging cables may charge your Chromebook without issue, the GWSD Technology Department recommends using only the original charging cable that came with the device. This will help to ensure that your device is charging at an acceptable level.
Plug the Chromebook in to Charge Overnight - If you will be regularly using your Chromebook, plugging it in to charge overnight can help to ensure that your device has a full battery to start the next day. Plugging the device in to charge during breaks can also help to ensure that the device remains charged and ready to use throughout the day.
Ensure the Chromebook is Safe while Traveling - Should you travel for vacation over the summer, we recommend ensuring that Chromebooks are stored and used in a location where there is a low risk of damage, like in a home, hotel room, etc.

Tips for At Home Use

Check Out: ParentGuidance.org
Check Out: Digital for Good: Raising Kids to Thrive in an Online World
Mentor more than Monitor: If you want to know what your kids are doing on their devices, start by talking with them.
Create Unplugged Zones: Unplugged times/areas offer different kinds of engagement.
Promote Creativity over Consumption: Encourage your kids to be creators—not just consumers.
Structure Transitions: Use habits and routines to minimize post-screen time issues.

Wifi Info

Free Wifi Locations in Gunnison County
Gunnison County Libraries

Gunnison Library Crested Butte Library
1 Quartz Street 504 Maroon Avenue
Gunnison, CO 81230 Crested Butte, Colorado 81224
Monday-Friday 9:00AM-6:00PM Monday-Friday 10:00AM-6:00PM
Saturday 10:00AM-4:0PM Saturday 10:00AM-4:00PM
Sunday 1:00PM-5:00PM Sunday 1:00PM-5:00PM

Colorado Broadband Office

Low Cost Internet Programs
Find Broadband Services
Tell us about your internet service
Help us improve broadband in your community

Apps

ClassLink (launchpad.classlink.com/gwsd)
iReady
Newsela
Learning Ally
WeVideo
Book Creator
Other content and/or grade-level specific curriculums or resources found on your child’s ClassLink Launchpad or provided by teachers in separate communication

Students will see the digital resources on their ClassLink Launchpad for the grade level they just completed during the summer months. On August 6, 2025, students may begin to see changes to what is available to them based on their new grade level and school.

Log-In

All students log-in using the single-sign on platform ClassLink. ClassLink will auto launch on Chromebooks. K-5 students log-in using a quick card (QR code) and 6-12 students log-in with their school issued credentials.

What are my child’s school issued credentials?
Username: ask your secondary student
Password: unique to each student

If your K-5 child needs a new quick card, or if your 6-12 child needs a password reset over the summer months, please email Katie Gallagher at kgallagher@gunnisonschools.net.

Support