iPads FAQ

Where can I learn about the iPad?
You can learn about the iPad directly from Apple - http://www.apple.com/ipad/features/. Students (and parents too) are welcome to drop into the tech office if you would like to have a hands-on demo of the device.

When will students first receive their iPads?
Student will receive their iPad during the first few weeks of school.  We will roll out the distribution of iPads in the upper grades first.  It could be the end of September for the first grade gets their ipads.

Will there be any training for students on how to use the iPads?
Yes. We will begin the school year with some training sessions and continue them through the year. We will try to answer as many parents’ questions as we can. If we get a lot of the same questions, we will post how to videos on the school website.  . We feel that training for faculty, students and families is critical to the success of this initiative.

Do students get to take them home at night?
Yes, absolutely! The full benefits of the program can only be realized if students can use these devices both at school and at home.

May students opt out of using the iPad altogether?
The short answer is no... the benefits of a tool like this can only be achieved if the tool is ubiquitous.

Will the school do any training for parents about the iPad?
No.  We will answer as many questions as we can at back to school night, how to videos and thru emails like this. Many of the answers to your questions can be found during a search on Apple's website and on YouTube.

Can students install their own apps?
Yes, we do want students to be able to load their own apps. Students will be responsible for keeping their apps (and all data) synced to a computer at home and iCloud since we will be periodically wiping the iPads when we perform maintenance. Students should only download apps that are approved by the school/teacher.

Can I, as a parent, control what apps my child installs?
Yes. First of all the school has configured the iPads so that explicit songs and apps cannot be installed.  More importantly, we suggest that you check the box in iTunes to require a password for each purchase. This will prevent your child from unauthorized purchases.

What happens if my child downloads too many expensive apps without my permission – apps unrelated to schoolwork? WIll I be able to refund those items?
All of Apple’s app sales are final, so it is essential that you discuss this with your child. If your child currently is downloading songs or videos from iTunes, most likely you already have had this discussion. An easy way to prevent this is to keep your iTunes password from your child.

My student already has an iPad. Will s/he be able to use that one?
No the school has our iPads to "managed" devices to ensure we have consistent security, configuration, apps and content.

Do we need an iTunes account at home?
Yes.  You will to have an iTunes account at home.  You entire family can share the same iTunes account.

What does an iTunes account cost?
Nothing.  You can set it up with and without a credit card.  You will only pay for the apps and song you wish to purchase.   You will not get charged for any free apps.

Does the school supply the apps for the iPad??
No.  We will have a program for you to purchase apps for half price.  This will be explained at back to school night.

Do we need an iCloud account at home?
Yes. Your child will need their own iCloud account.  We will send home instructions on this once we issue the students their school email address.

How do I keep my work contacts from being synced to my child’s iPad??
Very easy.  While you can share a iTunes account for the purchase of Apps, iTunes does not control contacts.  Contact and documents are synced via iCloud.