The BYOD Program

What is BYOD, and how does the program work?

BYOD means "Bring Your Own Device." Instead of the school providing devices, or instead of mandating one particular device, we are requiring every student to bring the device of their choice (provided it meets some basic requirements). Each teacher may have students use the devices differently. Some teachers may have students do research in class, some may have them take assessments, some may have them do writing assignments, some may use it to access online resources. Some teachers may give activities that require students to use their devices constantly. Other teachers may not utilize the BYOD program as often but leave it up to the student whether or not they use their device to take notes or access an e-book.

While having every student bring their own device opens a world of curriculum possibilities, we also believe in creating an environment where students have a choice to turn in homework digitally, have e-books instead of textbooks, and take notes electronically. To the right you will see a list of frequently asked questions and our BYOD Buying Guide.

BYOD Buying Guide

FAQ

List of 12 frequently asked questions.

Q: What happens if the device breaks? Will you fix it?

No. While we may be able to troubleshoot a simple malfunction, the device is the student's responsibility. If the device breaks, you will have to coordinate repairing. We highly recommend purchasing extended warranties, virus protection, and installing anti-theft software if available.
Q: What are the requirements for the device?

The parameters are very wide open. Basically, the device's screen must be 10" or larger. It must have 802.11ac wireless connectivity. It can be a PC (Windows 10+), Macbook, Chromebook, or Microsoft Surface Tablet. Battery must last the school day. Extended warranties, protective cases, and insurance are recommended but not required.
Q: Will my child have internet access?

Yes, we have a dedicated network for student wifi access, and students are given their access information at the beginning of the year. Each username/password is unique to the student, and they should remember their credentials in case they change their devices at some point of the year.
Q: Which device should I buy?

Please see our BYOD Buying Guide.
Q: Where should I go to find and purchase the device?

You're welcome to purchase the device from anywhere. If you don't know what device you want, we recommend going to a retail store like Best Buy, letting them know the requirements, and then allowing your child to play with the devices that meet the parameters. Because of the risk of theft, breakage, and viruses, we recommend purchasing extended warranties. Some retail stores may offer warranties, whereas many online shops do not. Consider shopping at stores that will match online prices as well. This way you can get the best price along with an extended warranty. You may also want to consider shopping at stores that allow you to return the device without restocking fees. This will give you a couple of weeks to test out the device and return it should you find that it doesn't meet your needs.
Q: What devices should I avoid?

From our experience, the most limiting devices are those that restrict you to certain applications. For example, Windows Surface RT, while a Windows machine, limits users to only certain apps on their app store and does not allow installation of standard program files. A Windows Surface Pro does not have this limitation. Likewise, an iPad lacks native flash support, making online textbooks or other websites an issue.
Q: What happens if the battery dies during the school day? Will they be able to charge their device?

Students must come to school with their device fully charged. Battery life depends on many factors, particularly how much the device is being used and for what purpose. While allowing students to charge their devices is ultimately up to the teacher, we encourage students to use their devices judiciously. Playing games, watching movies, and unnecessary multi-tasking will run down the battery life signifcantly.
Q: Will there be loaner devices if a child forgets their device or needs to have it repaired?

Should something happen, or if a student forgets their device, loaner Chromebooks will be available for rental from the LMC for a fee of $10/day. The Chromebooks must be returned to the LMC at the end of each day in order to avoid disciplinary action, hefty fines, and loss of future rental privilege.
Q: Will my child have email access?

Yes, each student will have a Spalding branded Google apps (Gmail) account. They can access it by going to www.gmail.com and logging in with their student Google Apps/PowerSchool Learning account information.
Q: Do we get Microsoft Office?

Yes, Microsoft Office 365 account information is emailed to the students' Spalding email account (@spaldinghs.org) at the beginning of the year. With Office 365, students can install Microsoft Office on up to five supported devices, as well as use the service online.
Q: Does my child have to bring a device or is this optional?

Yes, every student must have their own device that they bring to school.
Q: What is Google Apps?

We encourage students to take full advantage of their Google Apps accounts. Besides an email and robust calendar, students have access to 25 GB of free storage via Google Drive (www.drive.google.com). Students also have access to Google's web-based word processing programs (Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides), which are similar to Microsoft Office and can be accessed on any computer anywhere with an internet connection using the student's Google Apps login information.