Digital Tools Support Levels
All approved digital tools in Thompson School District have a defined support level that explains how they are set up, supported, and maintained.
These levels clarify the role of I.T.S. and what is expected from schools or departments using each tool. Clear support expectations help ensure tools are used in ways that are sustainable, secure, and aligned with their intended purpose.
Preferred Applications and Digital Tools
Preferred tools receive comprehensive support from ITS to ensure secure implementation, reliable performance, and alignment with district priorities. These tools are typically district-sponsored and may be used across multiple schools or programs. This includes Contract Providers.
During onboarding, I.T.S. will:
- Configure rostering and data integration through ClassLink
- Set up authentication using district-supported methods (Google, SAML, etc.)
- Coordinate with the vendor for setup, configuration, and implementation
- Confirm data privacy agreements and accessibility requirements through the CASE Connective portal
- Prepare the tool for distribution to the appropriate users
Ongoing I.T.S. support includes:
- Maintaining rostering and data integrations
- Serving as the technical liaison in collaboration with the business system owner with the vendor for maintenance and escalated support
- Responding to technical issues in partnership with the business owner
- Supporting onboarding and offboarding processes
- Collaborating with business owners on lifecycle management
- Facilitating accessibility compliance and data privacy agreements
Business owner responsibilities include:
- Providing training for staff using the application
- Maintaining clear documentation and support resources for users
- Communicating with I.T.S. when technical issues arise
- Verify that all accessibility standards are met
- Managing renewals and contracts in partnership with Business Services and CASE Connective
Accepted Applications and Digital Tools
Accepted applications meet district requirements for data privacy, security, and instructional or operational use, but do not receive the same level of comprehensive support as Preferred tools. These applications are typically selected by schools or departments for specific needs.
During onboarding, I.T.S. will:
- Enable access to the application, typically through Google login
- Confirm data privacy requirements if student data is used, including submission through the CASE Connective when applicable
- Provide general guidance for initial setup, if needed
Ongoing I.T.S. support includes:
- Offering general guidance for troubleshooting
- Making the application available through district-supported login methods (such as Google)
Business owner responsibilities include:
- Using vendor support channels for most technical or user-specific issues
- Providing/coordinating training for staff using the application
- Ensuring accessibility compliance and data privacy agreements
- Maintaining clear documentation and support resources for user
- Managing parent agreements for individual student use and communication in case of a data breach
Self-Supported Applications and Digital Tools
Self-supported tools have been reviewed for data privacy and approved for use. These tools are typically used for niche or individual needs and do not qualify for centralized I.T.S. support.
- No rostering or integration support is provided by I.T.S.
- Technical troubleshooting is the sole responsibility of the business owner or user.
- I.T.S. does not engage with the vendor or provide training.
- Business owners are responsible for ensuring the tool remains compliant with district policies and state laws (Student Data Privacy and Transparency Act and Digital Accessibility).
- I.T.S. will list the application in the catalog as Self-Supported and the user assumes all responsibility and liability.
- The user may need to request parent permission if student data is required.