iPad Frequently Asked Questions
Why iPads?
We believe that using iPads, as opposed to using laptops or other devices, best suits the preparation of students for success in college and success in the world of work. Our research included an examination of top-tier colleges and universities, corporations, professional organizations and institutions as well as current research into effective teaching strategies, brain development, and student creativity. In all these areas the trend is toward the use of iPads. As a college preparatory school, we feel that the iPad is a solid choice for our students.
May I use my own personal iPad?
No, due to programming and management issues, it is not possible for St. John's Prep to allow individually owned iPads.
Are families buying the iPad, or is the school?
The school is purchasing the iPads. The cost of the iPad program has been built into the larger cost of an education at St John's Prep; all families are asked to pay for the insurance, the case, etc. through our technology fee (the fee for school year 2013-14 will be approximately $80). To keep costs down and to ensure that our students have the best technology to facilitate their education, St. John's Prep is leasing the iPads from Apple. Our hope is that students will keep their iPad for at least three years.
Do students need to purchase their own apps for the iPad?
Students all have their own Apple ID that they use to buy and manage personal apps on their iPads. The school will provide basic apps like Pages, Keynote, etc. Part of becoming a responsible user of technology is knowing how to care for the device, including downloading, installing, using, and uninstalling applications. Additionally, upon graduation, students will be able to continue using all the apps associated with their Apple ID on whatever new iOS device they happen to buy in the future. A list of required and recommended apps by type of learning task are available here.
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. If you are worried about putting your credit card on your child's iTunes account, here are some other choices: a digital monthly allowance ("send iTunes gifts" on the right hand side of the iTunes Store home page), iTunes gift cards (found in most retail stores), or gift by email (all items in the iTunes Store or App Store can be "gifted" by selecting the arrow beside the price and clicking "gift this").
Will all of our textbooks be digital?
We are currently in a transition from traditional textbooks to digital materials. Over time, we will be adopting digital textbooks and other resources across all content areas. For now, some courses will retain traditional textbooks until acceptable digital textbooks become available.
What about accessories or cases?
The school will provide a case for the iPad, but aside from that, there are no other required accessories. We have prepared an iPad Apps & Accessories web page that identifies the required (school-provided) apps that each student needs to have installed on their iPad, as well as recommendations for others, and some accessories that our faculty have found helpful.
How will students receive their iPads?
iPads will be distributed the week before school starts in August. Students and parents will go through a number of stations including signing the school technology policy, paying any outstanding fees, receiving the iPad, setting up email on the ipad, getting a case, etc. Stay tuned, more details will be provided in August.
Where can I learn more about the iPad?
Please visit Apple for more information.
Will my child's internet traffic be filtered?
While your child is on campus, all student internet traffic is logged and filtered by our servers.
My child is a Senior. Will he be able to purchase the device when he graduates?
No, the devices are leased. We will not sell them until our lease is done.
Will students be trained on how to use and care for the iPad?
Yes, when students pick up their iPad, there will be a brief orientation on how to setup their iPad, how to maintain it, and some of the basics on using the iPad for class-related activities.
Will students be able to take the iPads home at night, over breaks, and during the summer?
Students will take the iPads home every night (to do homework and to recharge the device) and during breaks. iPads will be collected prior to summer break.