Student TechBytes

When news of horrific tragedies take over our screens and social media feeds, they trickle down to kids, too. And unfortunately these days, we're watching traumatic events unfold on our devices almost constantly. These scenes of real-life violence can affect a child's mental and emotional well-being.

Here are some ways you can help children process and cope with news about violence, crime, and war.

• Explain the news to them in an age-appropriate way.
• Tell them they're safe, and offer hope.
• Encourage them to take breaks from screens.
• Focus on what connects us all.
• Create a self-care routine.
• Seek connection and support with your community.

Continue reading HERE.

Curious readers, unite! Common Sense Media has curated a wrap-up of some of the best of this year's releases. These favorites follow compelling characters and cover a wide range of important topics. There are tales that grapple with life after death, evocative short stories that tackle racism, and even a sweet fable about a skull buddy that promotes gentle kindness. Inspire your family's next read by checking out the list linked above.

As a reminder, when there are issues at your site, the best way to get help quickly is through a Help Desk call (626-396-3699) or ticket (gopusd.com/helpdesk). Not following this process can result in a delay in resolving your issue.

Common Issues to contact the Help Desk for include:

• Application or Account issue with
• Aeries
• Canvas
• Clever
• Chromebook issue

Please remember to completely shut down your Chromebook at the end of every day! This will ensure your device has received all necessary updates and that you are able to connect to all PUSD applications without issue.

We are currently in the process of retrieving lost chromebooks. If your chromebook gets locked, please see your Librarian or Office Manager to get the device unlocked and/or submit a ticket with the device's service tag.

A reminder that Chromebooks are instructional materials, similar to textbooks. We have been receiving a large number of tickets from school sites and from students stating students have lost or damaged their devices. Chromebooks range in cost from $389 to $758. We understand that devices may be misplaced and that accidents happen, but please make every effort to take care of your devices as well as locate lost devices before submitting a ticket for device replacement.

Once a device has been reported lost or stolen, it will be locked and unusable.

• Are you ready to set up your Aeries Parent Portal account and don't know how to get started? Check out our series of how-to videos HERE.
• Are you an Observer in Canvas so you can see your student's assignments and grades? If not, check out this document with linked videos on how to become an observer in Canvas.