BYOD FAQ's

What is a BYOD policy?

A Bring Your Own Device policy allows students to bring and use their own personal electronic devices- tablets, laptops, smartphones, etc.- to school.  With teacher approval, students may use their devices in the classroom to access and save information from the Internet, collaborate with other learners, and utilize the productivity tools available to them.
 

What is the benefit of a BYOD Program?

It allows your child to use a mobile device instead of a school desktop. It also helps keep school expenses low which in turn keeps tuition manageable. As Dr. Herrick said many times, it doesn’t make sense to raise your tuition to buy you a computer.

Are we required to send a device?

No. This is an option. School desktop clients are provided for anyone not wishing or able to send a personal mobile device.

Is there any paperwork I need to sign?

Yes. You will need to sign a statement saying you will abide with the policies and rules and absolve the school of certain liabilities before your child will be allowed to use the device at school.

If we choose to send a device, are we stuck having to continue sending one?

No. Your device and the school desktop clients are interchangeable. A student can actually switch back and forth dozens of times per hour with no loss. For example, a student can start a project then decide they want a bigger screen and switch to a school computer, picking up exactly where they left off in seconds.

Will other kids be using my device?

No, if you send a device it is only for your child’s use. Be sure to label it though.

What kind of device do we need to send?

Options are wide open. Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android with Google Play (including some e-readers) are fully tested and supported. We believe MacOS and Android without Google Play (including many e-readers) should work just fine too. Keep in mind, if your child is in a grade level that types a lot of reports, an iPhone probably isn’t the best choice because of it’s small screen and no keyboard. While smartphones work, tablets and laptops are recommended.

If I send a cheap device, will be student be at a disadvantage to others in the class?

No. Every device connects to the same virtual desktop so the same access, applications, and user experience is the same for every student regardless of device. Screen size and mouse/keyboard is the only difference and this can be mitigated by using a school computer when absolutely necessary. All other differences are superficial bragging rights; but we will be vigilant in keeping this from becoming a bullying tool.

Will the device be on the internet?

No, the student WiFi will only allow a terminal connection to the server. The device will not connect directly to internet,  file servers, nor printers. If the device has 3G/4G connection, it is in the policy you agreed to that the student will not use it during school.

Will parent’s cellular plans be impacted by providing a device for school use?

Students must connect to the school’s student Wi-Fi network.  Any cellular network charges due to unauthorized use will be the responsibility of the parent.

What about internet filtering?

The device doesn’t connect directly to the internet. It only serves a connection to the school server. Therefore all filtering and security is the same as sitting at a school computer. This is only while at school. We do not provide any filtering for your use at home.

Can my device catch a virus from the school?

Very unlikely. There are no connections to any services that potentially host viruses. The virtualized desktop serves as a hard separation between your device and everything else.

Will my child’s data be protected?

All school work and data is done on the server and saved on the school server with sufficient security and redundancies. Nothing done at school is saved or transmitted to your device. Any personal data you have on the device is the parent’s responsibility.

Do I need to buy any apps or programs?

No. The only app that needs to be on your device is an RDP client and all tested platforms have free, well-tested options.

Will the family need to have Internet access at home?

No. It would be helpful to have some form of Internet access (wired or wireless) in order for a child to make full use of school resources from home, but it is not required in order for a child to use a personal computing device at school.

Will they use the device before/after school or during lunch/recess?

No. We’re limiting usage to under supervision during class to 1) help ensure policies are followed and 2) you help protect you against damage risks.

What if the device breaks at school or is stolen?

The school is not liable for any damages, theft, or misplacing of a device you choose to send to school. It is advised that you label the device, record device details such as make, model, serial number and install tracking software if available. It is also recommended that parents contact their insurance company to obtain hazard and/or theft coverage.

Who makes sure it works?

The school will help configure and troubleshoot issues connecting to the school WiFi or connecting to the school server. Any other issues is the parent’s responsibility including, but not limited to: hardware issues, OS issues, driver issues, and personal data on the device.

What happens when my child’s device battery dies?

Your child is responsible for bringing his or her device fully charged to school each day. If your child’s device battery dies, they will have to use a school computer.

Does it have to stay at school or can they bring it home every night?

Up to you as the parent. You have to weigh the risk of breakage during transport with the need at home and risk of theft at school. Since you have to charge it at home, it is likely your student will have to bring it home at least once in a while.

Will my child’s device be confiscated if it is being used inappropriately?

Yes. If there is suspicion of inappropriate content or misuse, School Board policy will be followed by the school administration which can include confiscating and searching a device. Any infractions this serious will be quickly and directly communicated to the parent.