Getting Started

This page contains a number of resources that will help explain the process of establishing a Boltage Program.

Timeline

Click here for a PDF of the timeline that is easier to read.

A few notes:

We usually ship out a wifi device early, so that we can get a head start on working out all the details involved with connecting to the school's network. This will require the help of an IT person who understands the schools network security. After they are done, the wifi box goes into the Zap enclosure. We will send a testing guide with the wifi box that will explain the process for the IT person.

In most cases, we will not need to ship a pole. It usually easier and less expensive if you have a local chain link fence company supply and install the pole. The exception to this is when the site conditions require that the pole be installed on top of an existing concrete slab. This requires a special pole that can be bolted down, which we can provide. The Zap Pole Specification can be downloaded below.

Project Resources

Model Budget spreadsheet (MS Excel download)
Project Checklist (MS Excel download)
Boltage Order Form (MS Excel download)
Zap Site Guide (PDF download)
Zap Wifi Guide (PDF download)
Zap Pole Guide (PDF download)
Zap Assembly Guide (PDF download - please use this Guide as an example only - a current version will be sent with the Zap)

Kickoff & Registration

Once the Zap hardware is installed and tested, you will be ready to kick off your program. Of course, you may want to start publicizing the program before the actual kickoff date.

The registration process goes like this: Kids are given a RFID tag at school. Usually this happens at a kickoff event, and then someone stands at the Zap in the morning for a few days. It's best if the tag is attached to their backpack with a wire-tie right away so they don't lose it. The kids take the tag home and their parents register them on www.freiker.org/pub/register. Please note that we are still in the process of transitioning from our old name (Freiker) to Boltage. As a result, parts of our web site (registration and reporting) still say Freiker. In order for the Boltage Program to work properly it is critical that all participants register. The tags are ready to be scanned and recorded immediately, but you won't be able to distribute incentives or communicate personal participation information until the tag is registered.

At some schools, not all the kids and parents have access to the internet, so we have created an optional paper registration form. The form can be filled out by the parent, and then the information is input by a program administrator. Here are some links that will download the materials you will need to set up a paper registration process:

Paper Registration Instructions (PDF download)
Template - English (MS Word download)
Template - Spanish (MS Word download)

Communication Resources

These are some downloadable files that should help you communicate to parents about the program.

boltageflyer1.doc MS Word template for a flyer you can send home with the kids - 2 flyers per 8.5 x 11 page; black and white for photocopy. You need to edit the text box to add local contact information and kickoff dates, etc.

boltagedesignelements.doc MS Word document containing a number of Boltage design elements - like logos - that you should be able to cut and paste into another MS Word document. Use these in school newsletters, etc. This also contains the CMYK color definitions for the Boltage color palette so you can match colors used in other Boltage materials.

boltagedesignelements.eps An EPS file containing a number of Boltage design elements. This file is for graphic designers creating posters and other program materials. NOTE: a graphics application like Adobe Illustrator is required to open this file. These elements can also be converted for use in web sites. If you need help with this file or need web-ready images, please send us an email.