FAQs
General Technology Questions
What technology is available for students?
- Every student in Southfield Public Schools is provided a Chromebook to use to complete digital assignments and assessments. In grades K-5, students have a Chromebook that they keep at home. K-5 classrooms also have a cart of Chromebooks for students to use at school. Starting in 6th grade, students are responsible for bringing their Chromebook to and from school each day.
How do I put in a ticket with the Service Desk?
Staff and Families: Call (248) 209-2060 between the hours of 6 a.m.-5 p.m. When you call, the Service Desk will ask questions in order to create a ticket for you.
You can also submit a ticket using the online portal: servicedesk.oakland.k12.mi.us.
Note: Once a ticket is submitted by phone or via the online portal, you should receive an email with your ticket number. The issue will be routed to the proper support staff, based on the information you provided in the request. Please continue to check the ticket for updates by clicking “View Request” in the email.
Chromebook Questions
How do you get a Chromebook?
- If you are new to the district, the school will submit a request on behalf of the student for a Chromebook. Current students who do not have a district-issued Chromebook should submit a ticket with the Oakland Schools Service Desk.
How do you get a Chromebook repaired?
Most repairs that are needed fall into one of three categories: broken screens, battery issues, or keyboard malfunctions. All of these can be repaired by the Southfield Technology Department at the Instructional Technology Center.
The Instructional Technology Center is open for walk-in appointments every Monday and Friday from 7:30 a.m.-11 a.m. These hours are subject to change, especially if Southfield does not have school or there is a holiday in the near future. Please have an adult bring the device up to the Instructional Technology Center during these times. If alternate arrangements are needed, please submit a ticket with the Oakland Schools Service Desk.
What do you do with a Chromebook if you leave the district?
- If you are leaving the district, please return your Chromebook, case, and charger to your school’s office.
How do you take care of a Chromebook?
- Carry a Chromebook with both hands at all times.
- Never carry the device while it is open.
- Never leave the device on the floor.
- Do not consume food or drinks around the device.
- If the device needs cleaning, carefully use a microfiber towel or a rung out disinfectant wipe. Wipes specifically made for electronics can also be purchased in stores.
- Charge your Chromebook when not in use.
What if you need a Chromebook replacement?
- Entire Chromebook replacement is rarely necessary. A lot of parts can be repaired. If your device has been lost or stolen, please submit a ticket with the Oakland Schools Service Desk. We can provide information to help find the device and also lock the device preventing further use. If the device is truly gone, there is a replacement fee. Please contact us by submitting a ticket with the Oakland Schools Service Desk.
What do you do if you lost your Chromebook charger?
- If you lost your Chromebook charger, any other 45-Watt USB-C charger should charge your device.
Digital Tools Questions
What is MISTAR?
- MISTAR is Southfield’s Student Information System (SIS). It houses student information, including attendance, report cards, bus routes, and more! For MISTAR resources and information, go to the MISTAR Parent Resources Page.
What is Clever?
- Clever is an online portal that houses a lot of the programs that students and teachers use in the district. There are curriculum applications, testing applications, and enrichment activities all on Clever. Students have access to Clever via Google Single Sign On.
What is Schoology?
- Schoology is Southfield’s Learning Management System (LMS) for students in grades 3-12. Teachers use this platform to post digital assignments, assessments, and resources for students. Students and teachers should access Schoology via Clever. Parents have Schoology logins to check their student’s work/progress. If login information is needed, please submit a ticket with the Oakland Schools Service Desk.
Other Technology Questions
How do I get a hotspot?
- Families without home internet access may request a district-provided hotspot by submitting a ticket to the Oakland Schools Service Desk.
What do you do if you require specific technology needs?
- Students who require specific technology related to an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan will be contacted by the Intense Student Support Network to discuss arrangements.