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2007-2008 Computer Lab Info.
Hello everyone, I am Mrs. Farmer and I am very proud to work in the Intermediate computer lab. I would like to tell you a little bit about myself. I am a 1981 graduate of Shallowater High. I love 60's and 70's classic rock, and Christian music. When you come by my room, you will notice the groovy retro look.
I have taught computer skills for about 12 years, and this is my 16th year to be an employee of Shallowater ISD.
As for my classes, keyboarding is a huge skill that each student will be taught and will carry over into their middle school years. We will also be working with WORD, EXCEL, POWER-POINT and well just getting familiar with parts of a computer, Internet Safety, and other skills that are necessary for your childs education. I enjoy working with each of the students. Come by the lab anytime.
We have been working in an educational technology program, Easy Tech which follows State Standards and meets TEK'S.
I not only work in the lab, but I also Co-teach in 5th grade along with many other duties.
I'm also an avid football fan whether it be college or NFL teams. My all time favorite college team is Notre Dame and NFL is the Chicago Bears.
I have 2 dogs, a golden retriever named Kernel and a black lab named Blade. I love spending time with my family and friends.
I am looking forward to another awesome year here at Shallowater Intermediate!
Kid's Rules for Online Safety
Students have been given Online Safety Tips. I hope that your child has shared these tips with you. 1. I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number, or the name and location of where I live.

2. I will tell my parents right away if I come across any information that makes me feel uncomfortable.

3. I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable.

4. I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online and appropriate areas for me to visit.

5. I will not believe everything I read on the Internet. I will always check the source of the information and confirm it with my teacher, parent or librarian.

6. I will help my parents understand how to have fun and learn things online and teach them things about the Internet, computers and other technology.
Contact Me
If you have any questions concerning the Accelerated Reader and STAR program, just email me, I would be very happy to assist you.
As for the new Gradebook, please visit our district's web page @ www.shallowaterisd.net. You will find information for setting up an account on this page labeled txconnect.
Tech Tips
**Daily Maintenance**

Virus Scan - A regular virus scan is essential to the safety of your computer. I recommend scheduling your anti-virus software to run a virus scan once a day.
I recommend that you download the following anti-virus program.
www.freeav.com/

Data Back-ups - Backing up data is a simple process with CD burning software or you can run the back up utility provided with Windows. Access by going to Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Backup. Follow steps using the Wizard.

Shut Down - your computer each day to save electricity and the wear and tear on your computer.

**Weekly Maintenance**

Disk Cleanup - cleanup at least once a week; this will delete unnecessary temp files, temporary internet files and your recycle bin which will free up hard drive space that can slow down your computer.
Access System Clean up by clicking on Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup.

Disk Defragmenter - Running disk defragmenter at least once week will allow your hard drive to work more efficiently.
You can run disk defragmenter by Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter and then select the drive you want to defragment, normally c: drive.

**Monthly Maintenance**

Windows Updates - This is a good way to insure that your system is running up to date with the latest security patches. You can update your Windows Operating System by going to update.microsoft.com.

**3 Month Maintenance**

Clean Computer - cleaning your computers vents of dust and pet fuzz is very important. With a brush, vacuum cleaner or a can of air, clean the vents for the power supply and side vents on the computer and monitor.
***Before cleaning make sure the power is off and follow the instructions on the can of air to safely complete this task.

Clean your keyboard by gently picking it up with the power off, turn it upside down and shake it out. This will shake out any dirt, lent or crumbs between keys.

Mouse cleaning - Periodically open up the bottom of your mouse and remove the roller ball. Wash the ball with water (or alcohol). Use a soft cloth to dry the ball before reinserting it.

I hope that these tips are helpful!
Attention: Yahoo Tool Bar
When updating your Windows, be careful not to check to install Yahoo Toolbar. Uncheck the box if this appears to install updates. Yahoo Toolbar tends to cause some windows not to open correctly, in otherwords causes spy-ware!
**SPAM/POP-UP Info.**
The 2 following sites are excellent if you do not have a Spam/Pop-up Blocker installed on your computer.

www.adaware.com
www.ccleaner.com

**Be sure to check for updates within the program once you've installed them. It is best if you run these about twice a week.
'The pathway to educational excellence lies within each school.' Terrance Deal
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