Gilman

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 12 as of July 1, 2019)
  • a screen size of 9.7 inches (full-size, not iPad Mini)
  • 32GB minimum internal memory, although 128GB is welcome as well.
  • Wi-Fi-only configuration (iPads with cellular service are not allowed)

As of July 1, the starting price for iPad is $309. Visit the Apple web site to learn more about iPad specifications.

Some important points:
  • Please note: The prices referenced above do not include accessories, including:
     
    • Protective Case or Folio (Required)
    • Bluetooth Keyboard (Required) (Stand alone or built into the case or folio)*
    • Stylus (Required)
    • Screen Protector (Optional)
  • Although you may elect to purchase a 12.9 inch iPad Pro, we do not recommend that you do so 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.

*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?

In the Middle School, all students are required to bring their own iPad to school. Students are also required to attend a Boot Camp in late August to review policies and procedures related to iPad use.

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?

Students need not purchase a new iPad; however, their chosen iPad must be one of the approved models, meeting the minimum requirements mentioned above.

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 minimum 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.

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

The iPad should be stored on the top shelf of the student's locker during recess, lunch, and athletics.

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 Boot Camp session, 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?

Students may personalize their iPad case, but they are urged to exercise good judgement, making sure all markings and stickers are school appropriate. Students will be asked to remove or replace any inappropriate stickers or markings.

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?

As each student will have his own iPad, it should not be necessary for another student to use a classmate's device. According to the iPad User Agreement, "Students many not, under any circumstances, log on or use another student's account."

Does a student have to have an iTunes account?

Yes. A student must have the latest version of iTunes loaded on his iPad and must have a valid iTunes account. Recent changes in the Apple Deployment Program now permit students under 13 years of age to create Apple IDs.

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?

Students are asked to sync their iPads to their personal iTunes account using a home computer. Students are urged to sync their iPads on a weekly basis to ensure that an up-to-date back-up is in place. Information about backing up and restoring iPads can be found on the Apple website.

What happens if there are technical problems with the iPad?

The student should bring his iPad to Ms. Nichols' office in the Middle School. If we are unable to diagnose the issue, you will be directed to take your iPad to an Apple store for further analysis.

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

Parents are encouraged to purchase casualty insurance to cover loss, breakage, 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?

Students should come to school with their iPads fully charged. This should be part of the nightly routine as there are no charging stations in the Middle School.

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

If you receive tuition assistance from Gilman, please click here for more information about supporting the purchase of an iPad.

Whom do I contact if I need more information?

Please contact Ms. Lynn Nichols, Director of MS Innovation Lab, at 410-323-3800, ext. 674, or lnichols@gilman.edu should you have any questions or concerns.

iPad Registration

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:

Tye Campbell

Titles: Director of Technology
Phone Numbers:
School: 339

Lynn Nichols

Titles: Director of MS Innovation Lab
Phone Numbers:
School: 674