Illini Bluffs contains a major network of computers, servers, switches, routers, and a firewall used in three schools contained under one roof. The three schools are connected together with a fiber optics backbone. Most of the computers have Internet access though a T-1 line. All of the computers with Internet access are filtered based on the guide lines for educational use. Management of student grades, teacher lesson plans, attendance, bus schedules and other vital information is recorded electronically. The cafeteria uses the network to manage lunches, food items and monies involved in serving meals. The district administration uses the network for payroll and finances. This information can only be seen and changed by staff which have the required security rights. The network is protected by multi-layer defenses which include a firewall, virus scanning software, Internet filtering, spy-ware removal tools and user education. The primary operating systems used in the network are Windows 2000 and Windows 2000 Server. We are in the beginning stages of implementing Window 2003 Server, and Windows XP operating systems. All operating systems are controlled with Active Directory Services.

The district has seven computer labs. Each lab is designed with computer applications to fit the needs of the grades or subject level. There are two labs in the elementary school, two labs in the middle school, and three labs in the high school. Many classrooms have multiple computers for immediate student use. Each day the computers and network are used for a variety of student and faculty activities. These activities include Internet research and the creation of a variety of technology products, which enhance the total educational experience.

There are many conveniences provided by our network. Our staff has the ability to change information instantaneously on their individual pages within our website. This allows for continual communication of information to the Illini Bluffs community. Some of the information exchanged via our website includes: Sport Schedules, Lunch Menu, Board Reports, and Classroom Activities. The library has the convenience to directly communicate with the Alliance Library System to instantly locate books anywhere in the state for students use. Learning is made easier the ability to download educational videos from Discovery Education when a teacher is emphasizing a specific concept. Our network offers secure storage for both staff and students which is backed up on a regular basis.

The Illini Bluffs Tech Support Team is a group of trained students lead by a Systems Administrator. The IB Tech Support Department provides repair of the district’s technology equipment, installation of connectivity devices, and configuration of the district’s network. IB Tech Support assists IB staff and students in the development of personal technology skills though both individual and group sessions. The Support Team is also used as a technology consultation group for both school and personal technology issues.

From a few computers and hubs seven years ago, the technology at IB has grown substantially. Supported with a caring group of district administrators, teachers, trained personnel, equipment and technology at IB have been transformed into sophisticated educational tools. Our network is designed to promote safe educational experiences for everyone. In looking to the future, technology will continue to be a vital cog in our efforts to provide the highest quality of education possible.