How can I open my Microsoft document?

Microsoft has several versions of MS Office and MS Works. Most of these programs are not able to open files created with a new version of the same program. MS works is included with most new computers (including those based on Vista) and is the most limited of all programs. Most of the computers at D.C. Everest have Office 2003 on them and are unable to open documents saved in the newer MS Office/MS Works version included with Vista. MS Publisher is NOT, in any way, compatible with other programs or versions other than the one it was created on. MS Publisher should not be used if you plan on transferring your file to another computer.

To avoid this problem it is recommended that you use Open Office instead. Openoffice.org is a Free Open Source program suite that has all of the functionality of MS Office. It can also open most MS Office documents, not including the latest version included with Vista. Open office is available free for download or on a disk available for purchase in the IMC for the cost of the media. Also included on that disk are many other programs used here at work. One disk can be used on many computers.  More information on Open Source and how it is used at D.C. Everest is available on the District web page  here.

The other option available to you is to save in the Rich Text Format, rtf. It is available under the Save As command. Most formatting is preserved including pictures.

Another program to note is Windows Movie Maker. It is available on school computers. However it is not supported in any way. If you choose to use it we will not be able to help you with it. For school related video projects there are many computers available with iMovie and DVD burners.

How to create an audio announcement or recording.

1. Plan your project. Figure out what you are going to say and gather your music CDs or files.

2. On the computer Desktop create a folder with your name the date and project name.

3. In that folder make a text file named INFO and your name. In the file put your name, the teacher's or group's name, date due or dates to play, and when we can delete the file. Put in any other notes that may help you or production lab staff.

4. Gather the music files and put them in the folder.

5. Open Audacity and save project in your new folder.

6. Record your voice.

7. Import your music.

8. Edit your volume and placement of music.

9. Export your project as mp3 file for announcements or wav file for CD

How to create an iMovie/DVD for class.

1. Plan your project. Figure out what you are going to say and show. Gather your media and files.

2. On the computer Desktop create a folder with your project name and your name.

   (right click, new folder, then just type the name of the folder)

3. In that folder make a text file named INFO and your name. Put your name, the teacher's name and due date in the text file. Put in any other notes that may help you or staff.

   (if you use MS word or similar program make sure you save using text format!)

4. Any files or pictures you need should be stored in this folder! We recommend creating a folder just for originals and a separate folder for edited copies.

5. Open iMovie and save project in your new folder. 
   Here is a PDF with instructions on using iMovie

6. Import your video and record your voice.

7. Edit your video as needed.

8. To export your file use share from the iMovie menu.

Some notes:

Give yourself TIME. Video can take several hours of work time per minute of finished video.

Consider the quality of your original media. Small pictures end up grainy or pixelated on screen.

Keep organized and make backups!
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U3 removal for compatibility with school computers.

U3 is a technology installed on many new USB pen/thumb drives. When inserted into a computer they try to install programs onto the computer. Many of these programs are incompatible with our computers due to security settings necessary at the school. Several computers have been severely corrupted by these programs as well. In order to use your drive at school you must remove U3 from your pen/thumb drive while at home. To do so, go to http://www.u3.com/uninstall/ and click Remove Launchpad near the bottom of the page. Follow the instructions there.

WARNING:  YOU WILL ERASE EVERYTHING ON YOUR DRIVE SO BACK UP ANY IMPORTANT FILES.

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6500 Alderson Street
Weston, WI 54476

Thomas W. Johansen, Principal
Email srhigh@dce.k12.wi.us

Phone (715) 359-6561
Fax (715) 355-7220