iPad Parent Information for Tzouanakis Intermediate School Who will receive an iPad and what is the cost? o

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Each TZ student will receive an iPad Air for use at school for the 2016-17 school year and the next school year.  This iPad is a part of the textbook rental.  GCSC has provided monetary support this second year of the 1:1 iPad initiative of $45.00 to ease parent/guardian burden to increased textbook cost. The TZ iPads are less expensive than those of GMS and GHS due to the following:  These iPads were reduced in cost of $100.00 as there is a newer version available but we chose the very same model that they will use in middle and high school.  These iPads do not have Apple Care as a part of the purchase. Note: There will be a charge for damaged or lost iPads. We are in negotiations for a more economical and local repair service for the TZ iPads.

What is the purpose of the iPad? o

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As 21st Century learners, our students must reach beyond the traditional reading, writing, and math to become more college and career ready scholars. With the iPad the students will be able to utilize and enhance their critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration skills. Each TZ student will utilize an iPad to enhance curriculum delivery. However, we will not eliminate print text and the use of handwriting as an educational skill. Students at this age need both types of skills.

May my child bring the iPad home? o

Initially the iPad will remain at school. At some point during the school year the iPad may be sent home with students for use at home.  There isn’t a timeline for when the iPad may go home.  The iPad will go home if the instructional and administrative staff feel it is instructionally appropriate.  The instructional staff want to ensure all students are familiar with the proper and safe use of the iPad (digital citizenship) and the instructional resources being utilized prior to sending the iPads home.  More information will be sent home regarding the use of the iPads throughout the school year.

What about Apple ID’s, Apps, Messaging, Filtering for the iPad? o

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TZ students will not have their own Apple ID.  There will be a classroom Apple ID that is managed by the classroom teacher.  The student will not have the password, and therefore will not be able to install apps to the iPad.  All apps will be installed by the district technology team or the classroom teacher.  If and when iPads go home, students will not be able to sync the iPad with a home computer. The iPads will have Smoothwall filtering software that will filter the content students are able to access at all times and in all locations. The instant message feature will be turned off on the TZ student iPads. As TZ students grow and mature then transition into the middle and high school the freedom and personal responsibility of the iPad will grow with them. Safe use and protection of personal information is very restricted at the intermediate level.

If you have questions, please take a look at our FAQ (frequently asked questions) on the district website, talk to your child’s teacher, counselor or administrator. We are eager to assist you in understanding the awesome learning power that the iPad Air holds for your child.