Middle School BYOD 2019-2020
Letter to Parents
To our parents of students who will be in middle school beginning 2019-2020:
With the start of the 2019-2020, all middle school students will be able to participate in the District’s BYOD program. As you know, GPPSS continues to explore initiatives that will expand learning and communication beyond the walls of our classrooms - among them are the Schoology Learning Management System (LMS) and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD).
Why BYOD?
There are no walls or ceilings with BYOD, allowing students access and mobility to their learning beyond the traditional classroom. This is one more tool the district will be using in a balanced approach to well-rounded instruction.
Helping students become responsible digital citizens will enhance not only what we do in the classroom, but also give students authentic experiences to build their 21st Century skills in the areas of collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking.
To that end, the District provides technology for students to use in school but cannot purchase enough technology to ensure that each student has a dedicated device to use daily.
BYOD Safety
GPPSS offers filtered and managed wireless access. Students who bring a personal computing device to school must agree to the District’s filtering, security and acceptable use policies.
Students who purchase a Chromebook device will also have additional filtering outside of the district while they are logged into a GPPSS account.
Educational Discounts on Pricing
Although there are several device options that fit the GPPSS definition of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), the following are two recommendations offered at a low price via Sehi:
HP Chromebook 11” G7
HP Chromebook 14” G5
In order to receive these pricings, families will need to create an online account via the Sehi Online Store. Accounts can be created by clicking “Register” at the bottom of the page. Families will also have the option to add warranties to these devices.
Please note that families do not have to purchase these exact devices; they are two recommendations at an affordable price that are compatible with GPPSS curricular needs. Families may choose to use alternate compatible devices. See the BYOD Handbook for acceptable use guidelines, required device specifications, and a Q&A.
Students who are unable to purchase a device may have similar devices provided for them; parents are asked to contact their principal.
Your partners in education,
Dr. Gary C. Niehaus, Superintendent
Maureen Bur, Director of Secondary Instruction
Chris Stanley, Director of Instructional Technology
Rodger Hunwick, Brownell Middle School Principal
Dan Hartley, Parcells Middle School Principal
Sara Dirkse, Pierce Middle School Principal