A little history

In 2009, Hunterdon Central started to pilot a Student 1:1 Computing Program. The program was an important part of New Jersey's "High School Redesign Initiative," featuring one device per student and allowing students access to real time information.  At first, the program was limited to a netbook-based trial.  However, it was so successful that it rapidly expanded, both in the numbers of students involved and the types of devices used. 

In 2012, we completed the testing phase of using student-owned devices in Hunterdon Central's classrooms.  Feedback from students, teachers and parents confirmed the benefits that come from students having devices in their hands throughout the school day. 

We're pleased to announce that beginning March 1, 2012, all students will be offered the option to join the guest network and bring their personally-owned devices to Hunterdon Central. We're calling this BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Please read through this page and take a look at the resources, to help you understand what this all means. Hunterdon Central will continue to make classroom computers, netbooks, and laptop carts available.

Why my device?

• In short, you're more comfortable on your device. It has all your applications installed and all your files right there. You also get to use a device that you prefer.
  
• eBooks. They're lighter than textbooks. You can take notes in them - and you'll never forget them at home.
• Even when you're not at Central, you'll be able to access all of your usual network resources 24/7. You can even sign up for the late bus while brushing your teeth at home!
• When you have the internet at your finger tips, you'll be a more engaged learner. Your teacher will bring up a topic, and you can have facts ready by the time they're done with the intro!
• Do you have a study hall or some free time during Unit Lunch? If you bring your own computer, you can surf the web from wherever you choose to eat your lunch. 
  
• It's just like connecting from a coffee shop.  You don't have to install anything and it's completely free. If you want to use a "virtual desktop," you will have to download and install VMWare (see the Resources to the right).

So you want access?

This all sounds great and you want access, right?   It's a quick, easy process, if you prepare yourself ahead of time. Here's what you have to do:

1. Make sure you have antivirus software installed, activated and up to date. Check out the quick note below for why.
2. Go to The Central Hub and ask to be added to the guest wireless. The technicians at the desk will ask to see your antivirus software (hint ... have it up on your screen before you go see them) and your Student ID.
3. If your system checks out, you'll be good to go after about 10 minutes. You'll get a quick demo on how to log into the network, and then you'll be on your way. Unit Lunch and Block 5 are busy times at the Hub. You may have to wait a little longer if you go during those times. If you go during a passing time, you won't be issued a late pass.
4. If you get a new computer, you'll have to go through this whole process again. It won't take as long, but it's still required!

a quick note

Before you go to the Hub, make sure you have virus protection.  It's imperative that all computers are adequately covered, so that no viruses are transmitted across our network. Regardless of whether you have a Mac, Windows, or Linux-based computer, viruses are a real threat to everyone. Often times, anti-virus software comes packaged with your Internet Service Provider. They will be able to provide you with a link to download their licensed copy. If you'd prefer to purchase your own, feel free. As an alternative, there are many robust, free anti-virus software packages available for download. Please see the resources to the right for links to them.