1:1 IPAD OF CHOICE

The Middle School iPad initiative provides students with a dynamic and robust tool for personal and academic pursuits. Because the iPad is such a critical component in the teaching and learning paradigm, we offer students the opportunity to select the iPad model that best suits their needs and learning preferences. The resources below outline the program in great detail.

Middle School students are required to provide their own iPad.

We strongly recommend an iPad with:

the latest version of iOS (version 14 as of May 1, 2021)
a screen size of 9.7-10.2 inches (regular size, not iPad Mini, Air, or Pro)
at least 32GB memory/storage, although more is welcome.
Wi-Fi-only configuration (iPads with cellular service are not permitted)

As of July 1, the starting price for iPad is $329. Visit the Apple web site to learn more about iPad specifications.

Some important points:

Please note: The price referenced above does not include accessories, including:
- Headphones with a built-in mic (noise-cancelling, if possible)
- Protective Case or Folio (Required)
- Keyboard (Required - waterproof or water-resistant - detachable, standalone or built into the case or folio)*
- Stylus (Required)
- Screen Protector (Optional)

We do not recommend that you purchase an iPad Pro based on multiple considerations, including weight, cost, portability, and size of device footprint on student desks.
We strongly recommend purchasing AppleCare+ (and optionally, insurance to cover loss or theft), to cover screen damage and operational failure.
Regarding keyboards, we strongly recommend keyboards that are waterproof or water-resistant which, by design, also are more difficult for keys to pop off and get lost. One example of such a keyboard can be seen here.

*If you are considering a separate wired keyboard, you may want to look at a low-cost option from Hitek, along with a protective sleeve to store both the iPad and keyboard.

ABOUT THE 1:1 IPAD OF CHOICE

The Middle School Technology Canvas page provides parenting resources as well as helpful tips in guiding your son's responsible use of the iPad.

Click the questions below to learn more about how our program operates.

How will an iPad be provided for each student?

Who will pay for Apps and eBooks?

All required academic apps will be provided by the School at no cost to the family. Some disciplines have adopted e-textbooks in lieu of a printed textbook. These texts will appear on the Student Book List and can be purchased via MBS. Families will still need to buy school-required eBooks and textbooks. If you receive tuition assistance from Gilman, please click here for more information about making these purchases.

I already own an iPad; can I use it?

What costs will there be for the students and their families?

Families will independently purchase or provide an iPad for their son's use at School (see above for the expected configuration requirements). In addition, families will need to purchase a Bluetooth keyboard and a protective case.

Families can purchase an iPad directly from Apple. We highly recommend purchasing Apple's AppleCare+ for your son's iPad. Alternatively, families may contact Safeware to purchase insurance for a device they may already own.

To fully leverage the touch capabilities of the iPad, students are required to provide an inexpensive stylus. This should be secured in a pencil case with other writing tools. While a more expensive stylus like the Apple Pencil is attractive, we recognize that these can easily be misplaced or lost, which is why we recommend a less expensive option.

Where can I keep my iPad during assembly, recess, and lunch?

How will the iPads be identified?

All student iPads must be clearly labeled with the student's full name and grade. This label should be placed on the back of the iPad. In addition, the student's name must prominently appear on the protective case to ensure easy identification. During the Readiness Workshop, students will record the serial number of their iPad and the passcode to unlock the device. These will be kept on file so that we may provide technical support and assistance at school.

Can the students mark or decorate their iPad or case?

Can students print from an iPad?

Yes. Students will have the capability to print from their iPads using the black/white printers located on the first and second floor. Color printing is not available at school. If a colored copy is necessary, students are asked to print the work at home. Students are reminded to limit all printing at school to academic work only. Even then, they should only print what is absolutely necessary.

Will students be allowed to let a friend use their iPad?

Does a student need to have an Apple ID account?

Yes. A student must have an Apple ID on his iPad. Recent changes in the Apple Deployment Program now permit students under 13 years of age to create Apple IDs. We have two options here:

1) creating an Apple ID account for your son as part of your Apple ID Family Sharing (more information on this can be found on Apple's website here); or,

2) waiting for the Readiness Workshop at Gilman where you and your son will be given his school-provided Apple ID.

How does a student load a school-supplied app onto the iPad?

Students can download school-supplied apps using the Self Service utility provided by the school. Students will be guided through this process at the Technology Preparedness Session in August. The Self Service utility enables students to download the core academic apps without having to go through the App Store. A list of all core academic apps, including those that students can download for free on their own, can be seen here.

How can the iPad and lost apps be restored?

What happens if there are technical problems with the iPad?

What happens if the iPad is lost, broken, or stolen (including cracked or shattered screens)?

Parents are encouraged to purchase AppleCare+ to cover iPad damage repairs. Parents can also purchase option casualty insurance to cover theft, loss, etc. This insurance coverage may be included in your homeowner's policy, or it may be purchased from a third party vendor such as Safeware.

Loaner iPads will be made available while your son's iPad is being repaired. These iPads will be covered under the school's insurance policy. However, parents will be charged at least the $100 deductible in the event the loaner device is damaged.

How will my son keep his device charged during the school day?

Will I receive tuition assistance that can be applied to the purchase of a device?

Whom do I contact if I need more information?

iPad Registration

Click the ipad image to register your device

Google Apps for Education

In conjunction with the 1:1 iPad Initiative, the Middle School takes full advantage of the cloud-based workflow offered by Google Apps for Education, including access to Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Email. Using the the Google Apps for Education platform will offer students full access to their saved files from any device anywhere there is internet access. As a result, students and teachers may collaborate by sharing files and information. The most powerful learning outcomes will occur when our students combine the features of Google Apps for Education with the speed, ease of use, and efficiency afforded by the iPad.

Contact

Should you have any questions or concerns about the 1:1 iPad of Choice program, please contact:

Katie Schmidt

Titles: Director of MS iLab

Tye Campbell

Titles: Director of Strategic Information and Innovation