- Newton Public Schools
- 1:1 Technology Program Overview
- Grade 11 & 12 BYOD Information
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Grade 11 and 12 BYOD Information
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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
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Why are we making this change?
Since implementing 1:1 at the high school, the program has expanded into elementary and middle schools. We have also observed many grade 11 and 12 students bringing their own device to school instead of using their NPS issued device. In order to financially sustain the 1:1 program throughout the district and to be fiscally responsible (ensuring devices aren’t issued if they are not needed) we have made this adjustment to the 1:1 Program.
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Why not also include grade 9 and 10 students?
We are not including grade 9 and 10 students in the BYOD model because of the needs of state testing. The vast majority of students complete their state testing requirements by the end of grade 10.
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What happens if my student leaves their device at home?
As is currently the policy, we do not provide daily loaners to students. We expect all students to bring their device (whether it is NPS provided or a personal device) to school on a daily basis.
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Will my student be missing needed software if they use their personal device?
Devices issued to students are Chromebooks which make use of web-based software. Students will be able to access web-based software using their personal device and their Newton Public Schools Login. We recommend students use Google’s Chrome Web Browser for better compatibility with Google for Education applications. Students will continue to have access to more specialized software through computer labs at the high schools as needed.
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How will NPS address issues of equity with students bringing more powerful devices than other students?
Teachers will be expected to plan lessons that are compatible with NPS issued Chromebooks which use web-accessible software tools. Personal Chromebooks and/or more powerful Laptops will be able to meet this need. While we cannot prevent students from using additional software they personally own, no student will be penalized for not having access nor given any advantages for having access to software beyond that provided by NPS.
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Will students be able to connect their device to the NPS network?
Yes, students will be able to access the visitor network within schools.
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Will there be staff to help troubleshoot technical issues with personal devices?
Directions will be provided on how to connect a personal device to the NPS network, however we are not able to provide technical assistance or repairs to personal devices.
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If my child’s device is lost or stolen when at school, what recourse can I take?
The district is not responsible for any damage or theft of student owned equipment. Theft or vandalism of any kind should be reported immediately to the students' House Office or to the School’s Main Office so school administration can take the appropriate steps.
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Can my student be reprimanded/disciplined for engaging in distracting or inappropriate activities on their personal device when in the Newton Public Schools?
Students are expected to act appropriately in school this includes only using technology as instructed by their teacher no matter what device they are using. All student device use, including personal device use, must adhere to the district Acceptable Use Policy and Guidelines.
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Will wireless access on a personal device be filtered when in the Newton Public Schools?
Internet access within the Newton Public Schools is filtered at the Network level; however, this is more limited than the filtering provided specifically on NPS issued devices. Families wishing to filter content further should install filtering software on their child’s personal device.
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Didn’t the 1:1 Budget Increase in the FY’24 Approved Budget?
Yes, but not sufficiently to fully fund a 1:1 program in grades K-12. We also have observed many high school students using their own device instead of the district issued 1:1 Chromebook.
