iPads in the Middle School

A mobile device for everyone…

Mahoney is included in the South Portland School District (SPSD) commitment to a technology rich environment. Begun in 2002, the Maine Learning Technology Initiative or MLTI has provided devices for each 7th and 8th grade student in state public schools, and South Portland teachers and students continue to make great use of this important resource. Grade 6 students are provided the same model iPad at Mahoney and Memorial along with the same apps, though grade 6 equipment is not part of the MLTI program.

Our students use technology tools to collaborate, communicate, conduct research, create digital content, organize materials, save data, take tests, and otherwise demonstrate their learning and develop skills in a variety of ways.

Despite the many benefits that our technology adds to teaching and learning, the technological landscape continues to grow and change at a rapid pace, which may also pose challenges for students, teachers, and parents alike.

iPad Expectations

Here is an abbreviated version of the expectations set for student iPad use. All students are asked to agree to each of these points before they are issued an iPad:

iPad belongs to SPSD and is for student use during the school year.
iPad is for educational use.
iPad may be monitored at any time.
Student is responsible for iPad and accessories at all times.
iPad may only be used by the student to whom it is assigned.
Loss and damage must be reported to school adult ASAP.
iPads must be handled appropriately, carried in protective bags, keep away from liquids, etc.
Family may be billed for damage depending on circumstances.
No unauthorized Apps or utilities may be added to the device.

And some reminders for 7th and 8th graders at home (6th grade students do not take iPads home):

iPads should be charged each night.
iPads may only be used by the student to whom they are assigned.
iPads should be stored in a safe place and not in the bedroom.
Parents are encouraged to have devices turned off and stored at a reasonable hour to ensure distraction free sleeping.
iPad should not be used near food, liquid, outdoors, or anywhere where damage is more likely to occur.

iPads at Home

What if the iPad breaks?

While the iPad protection plan will significantly reduce costs to the family, please note that, unless it can be established that the student is in no way responsible for the damage, there will be some amount of financial responsibility for the family. Information will be sent to all families outlining details of the the protection plan. Please be committed to proper care of the device at all times. Repairs are expensive.

As parents, it can be tough to keep up with all of the changing technology. But don’t despair! Remember that, while kids learn to use technology far more quickly than we do, we are still able to model positive digital behavior, help them to use good judgement, and even learn new things from them. Here are some of Common Sense Media’s tips for parents in the Digital Age:

Model good behavior - if you are not on your device during dinner, it will be easier to ask them not to be.
Pay attention - Know what your kids are doing on line.
Impart your values - Being kind and respectful offline extends to online behavior.
Establish limits - There is a right time and place for everything.
Encourage balance - Get kids involved in offline activities.
Make kids accountable - Have kids earn the privilege of being an online citizen.
Explain what is at stake - Remind them that what they do online today can impact them far into the future.
It’s not rocket science - Join them online, ask questions, and learn things from them.
Lighten up and enjoy the possibilities together!

Digital Rules of the Road for Parents

Common Sense Media is an invaluable resource for parents and educators. Begun in 2003, CSM has been conducting research, offering advice and providing a wide variety of resources for helping families and schools guide children to safe and profitable use of technology and media for over 15 years. From reviewing and rating movies, games and apps to reporting on important trends in digital technology use, CSM provides a welcome service for everyone who cares about kids in the digital age. Parents can join the organization to receive news and information via newsletter and to get access to special articles and reviews.

Here are helpful resource pages:
South Portland School District Board Policies See sections IJNDB- Student Computer and Internet Use and JICJ - Student Use of Electronic Devices

Maine Department of Education - Maine Learning Technology Initiative

Common Sense Media - See the Parents Need to Know section for great practical advice.