Grade 11 and 12 BYOD Information

  • Starting in September of 2023, the Newton Public Schools will implement a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) model for Grades 11 and 12. Chromebooks will still be available for 11th and 12th grade students that do not own a personal device that they can bring into school on a daily basis.
    The device requirements for BYOD are the following:

    • Laptop (Windows or Mac) or a Chromebook with a built-in keyboard running an operating system that is still supported (at a minimum receiving security updates)
    • Capable of holding a battery charge for 4 or more hours
    • Built-in microphone, camera, and speaker
    • The updated Google Chrome web-browser is preferred for full compatibility with Google for Education software
    • Anti-virus software on Windows or Mac based Laptops
    • A touchscreen is NOT required

Frequently Asked Questions on BYOD

  • Why are we making this change?

  • Why not also include grade 9 and 10 students?

  • What happens if my student leaves their device at home?

  • Will my student be missing needed software if they use their personal device?

  • How will NPS address issues of equity with students bringing more powerful devices than other students?

  • Will students be able to connect their device to the NPS network?

  • Will there be staff to help troubleshoot technical issues with personal devices?

  • If my child’s device is lost or stolen when at school, what recourse can I take?

  • Can my student be reprimanded/disciplined for engaging in distracting or inappropriate activities on their personal device when in the Newton Public Schools?

  • Will wireless access on a personal device be filtered when in the Newton Public Schools?

  • Didn’t the 1:1 Budget Increase in the FY’24 Approved Budget?