Getting Started with Google Apps for Education

After reviewing the following information and viewing the video please use your district issued Google Apps for Education credentials to sign-in.

Then complete the brief survey linked below.

Overview and Initial sign-in


Is Google Apps for Education different from a personal Google/gmail account?
  1. A personal Google/gmail account is intended for non-work related use
    1. Not FERPA compliant
    2. Not a place for creating, storing, or collaborating work related documents
    3. Students 13 and under cannot create personal Google/Gmail accounts (CIPA)

Why GAFE?
  1. Allows districts to automate the creation of user accounts for staff and students using existing district ID’s
  2. A safe and secure platform for online document creation and collaboration
    1. FERPA complient
    2. Should not be used to store or share confidential or sensitive material
  3. Streamlines the process of sharing content between staff and students

What will I need to get started?
  1. A modern web browser and internet connection
  2. A district issued Google Apps account
    1. your district e-mail address or district username
    2. a district issued temporary password (This will changed to a private password of your choosing after your initial sign-in)
      1. sent via e-mail
      2. generic password used by all to initiate account
  3. Google Chrome Browser or a modern web browser that runs automatic updates such as the most recent version of Firefox
    1. If you are using an older computer running Microsoft XP the installed version of Internet Explorer will not work with Google Apps for Education.
    2. While other modern browsers will work with Google Apps for Education the Chrome browser is generally considered the best option
    3. The Safari or Chrome browser on the iPad will also work for creating your account.

Signing in for the first time
  1. Open the Chrome browser (or Safari on the iPad) and go to http://drive.google.com
  2. Enter your district issued e-mail address (ex. last.first@myschool.edu)
  3. Scroll down through the Terms of Service and complete the CAPTCA code
  4. Select “I Agree...”
  5. Enter the temporary password given to you by the district
  6. Enter a new password of your choosing twice
    1. Google forces users to create a password that is at least 8 characters in length
    2. For password recommendations check out this post