Our information technology team put together a list of technology requirements to aid parents and students when making technology decisions for the 2019-2020 school year. Below is a list of required tools for grades 4-12 and a locations to consider when purchasing.
Students entering Kindergarten through 3rd grade
We currently have no requirements for devices in these grades. We are looking at the potential of implementing iPads at the 2nd or 3rd grade level and then adding the Bluetooth keyboard/case for 4th and 5th grade. This will not be an additional requirement for the 2019-2020 school year.
Students entering 4th grade
Parents are asked to provide a recent model Apple iPad which supports the latest version of iOS along with a rechargeable Bluetooth case/keyboard. Students will continue to use this same device in 5th grade.
Students entering 5th grade
Parents are asked to provide a recent model Apple iPad which supports the latest version of iOS along with a rechargeable Bluetooth case/keyboard.
Students entering 6th grade and beyond
We are recommending a Microsoft Surface Pro 4 or newer. These devices allow students to have the best classroom experience. The keyboard is required, and the pen is optional, but as teachers are trained with their new Surface Book 2 devices, the pen will be used strategically as needed. If desired, you can opt for the lower cost Microsoft Surface Go which is a smaller, less expensive alternative to the Surface Pro. If purchased new in 6th grade, this device will last for several years.
Where to Purchase:
- Microsoft Store – Microsoft frequently offers discounts that may provide better pricing than educational institutions receive. You can check educational pricing online or at a physical Microsoft Store.
- Best Buy – They will match pricing and offer educational discounts. They also provide 0% financing through a Best Buy card if you would like to make interest-free payments on your device purchases.
- Amazon – This is the stock market pricing option. Sometimes the pricing is high, sometimes it’s low, but the return options are good if there is an issue.
Management Tools:
We are constantly looking for ways to better manage student devices when they are inside LCS walls. To provide the most secure and reliable school network, we may need to install some tools on your student’s device. These “tools” will allow us to configure Wi-Fi, push applications, and diagnose problems in a more expedient manner.
Questions?
Technology can be confusing! If you are working with someone to aid you in the purchase process, share this information with them. If you have specific questions that need addressed as you prepare your technology for next school year, please send us a note! Our Director of Technology, Chris Nelson, can be reached at cnelson@lenawee.org.