Frequently asked questions
Is there insurance available to cover my student's iPad?
Yes there is. A policy from Safeware costs $53.40 for the 2011-2012 school year and there is no deductible. However, you must purchase your Safeware Insurance Policy no later than WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7. Download the form HERE, fill it out and bring it to your high school office. Make checks payable to Zeeland Public Schools.
Will the school's filtering system work at home so my student doesn't download inappropriate content?
The school's Internet filter is only useful when using a connection to the Internet at school. It is not contained on the iPad. When the iPad goes home or to any other location and connects to the Internet, content will only be filtered based on that connection. Most wireless Internet connection outside of an educational environment are not filtered.
There are ways to set up filtering for your home wireless. Check out the following article to find out how: http://www.digmo.co.uk/tip/easy-ipad-internet-filtering-via-opendns/
How long with the iPad battery last?
The iPad battery is built to last up to 10 hours when fully charged. It is important to follow the guidelines provided through Apple to get the most out of your battery: http://www.apple.com/batteries/ipad.html
How do I clean my iPad?
The iPad can be cleaned with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use window cleaners, household cleaners, aerosol sprays, solvents, alcohol, ammonia, or abrasives to clean the ipad. Use of unapproved cleaners may remove the protective film covering the face of the iPad.
Can I decorate my iPad?
The iPad must remain free of stickers, writing, painting, or any other forms of adornment.
The iPad cover may be personalized. Iinappropriate or provocative images including but not limited to pornographic images, guns, weapons, inappropriate language, threatening language, drug, alcohol, or gang related images are not permitted and such actions are subject to disciplinary action.
What if I do not want my child to participate in this program?
A parent/guardian may choose not to have their child participate in the iPad take-home program by sending written notification to the Building Principal. In this event, students will be issued an iPad, but will not be able to take the device home. Students who do not participate in the iPad take-home program will pick up and return their iPad to an area designated by the Building Principal on a daily basis. Zeeland Public Schools cannot guarantee equal access to materials and/or quality of materials to students opting out of the iPad take-home program.
May students take the iPad home?
Yes, students should take their iPad home to complete school work and to charge their iPad. Students must have a signed Acceptable Use Policy and iPad Contract to participate in the take home iPad program.
What happens if I lose my iPad?
Students should immediately report to their school's front office if their iPad gets lost or damaged. The school's administration may work with local authorities to help with the issue. If the iPad is not found, the student's family will be charged $250 and the student's iPad will be replaced. It is up to the school's administration if the student will be allowed to take home the new iPad.
Who will receive an iPad?
In the summer of 2011, all Zeeland Public School teaching staff received an iPad. In the fall of 2011, all high school students (grades 9-12) will receive an iPad. In the winter of 2011-12, all middle school students (grades 6-8) will receive an iPad. And in the fall of 2012, all 3rd-5th grade students will receive an iPad. Students in grades K-2 will utilize other technologies within their classroom.
Why is Zeeland Public Schools pursuing this 1-1 iPad initiative?
The changing landscape of the world’s information from analog form to digital form will certainly require today’s student to have a different set of skills than what was required just a decade ago. Future graduates must not be equipped with just the three R’s, but also must be equipped with 21st century skills of problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and technological literacy. Students will need to be able to quickly and accurately find answers to questions, synthesize information, communicate and collaborate with colleagues--not just in their own office, but with a global community of colleagues and customers. In May of 2010, Zeeland voters approved a bond millage that included funds to support this 1-1 initiative. Together with parents and community members, Zeeland Public Schools wants to help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to responsibly navigate through this emerging modern world.