Laptop FAQs

Why is BSM implementing a 1:1 laptop program?
How does technology enhance teaching and learning?
Why is the program starting in 2010-11?
How much will this cost me as a parent?
What computer will my student be using?
What is the lifespan of the program?
Does BSM own the laptops?
Can students bring their own laptops from home?
Are students going to be doing things they shouldn’t be?
What parental controls will be available?
What if the laptop gets broken, lost or stolen?
What is BSM doing to prepare for next year’s laptop implementation?



1. Why is BSM implementing a 1:1 laptop program?

To enhance and transform the teaching and learning that happens at BSM.

2. How does technology enhance teaching and learning?

Technology is an excellent tool that enables teachers to reach beyond the limits of the classroom, allowing students to develop authentic life skills as outlined by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE):

• Creativity and innovation—create authentic content, including documents, spreadsheets, podcasts, movies and Web sites.
• Communication and collaboration—participate in projects in the classroom, and communicate with teachers, peers and experts around the world anywhere and at anytime.
• Research and information fluency—access information, discern its reliability, and then synthesize and apply that information.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making—simulation and visualization tools help students comprehend difficult concepts, analyze data, and apply their learning to real life situations.
• Digital citizenship—learn how to responsibly and safely use technological tools to enhance their own learning and positively affect their school, community and the world.
• Technology operations and concepts—understand the power of technological tools, efficiently and effectively use them to help themselves and others learn, and organize, produce, communicate, collaborate, and analyze information.

3. Why is the program starting in 2010-11?

The laptop program for all students will launch next fall for several reasons.

• The BSM Technology Committee has been working toward a 1:1 laptop program for grades 7-12 for a few years. In recent discussions with Apple, BSM received an offer that made it possible to act now.
• Soon, we would be replacing 370 computers in the senior high, so we’re offsetting some costs of this program by pooling BSM’s entire computer needs together.
• The demand for laptop carts continues to rise, reinforcing the value of teacher and student access to technology.

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4. How much will this cost me as a parent?

Funding will come from the operating budget and fundraising efforts.

5. What computer will my student be using?

Students will receive an Apple MacBook. This computer has an Intel processor with a 13.3” screen.

6. What is the lifespan of the program?

BSM will keep these computers for three years, at which time BSM will have the option to enter into a new lease and/or a different program.

7. Does BSM own the laptops?

Yes, BSM will own the laptops to ensure that 1) every computer can handle the specific software that the teachers need, 2) they are used as an educational tool, 3) teachers are familiar with the hardware and software and able to assist students with their work, 4) the technology staff is more efficient in troubleshooting and fixing laptops, 5) every laptop receives appropriate upgrades between school years, 6) every student has equitable access, and 7) BSM is securing the best negotiated rate to reduce expense to families.

8. Can students bring their own laptops from home?

No, we want students to use BSM-owned laptops for reasons listed in question 7.

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9. Are students going to be doing things they shouldn’t be?

Teachers will continue to provide supervision and instruction during class and address issues as they arise. If necessary, teachers and administrators can monitor student work remotely. In addition, a teacher advisory committee, working alongside technology staff, will determine any Web filtering needs (what sites to block and unblock). Students will not be allowed to download applications. Students will be expected to know and follow technology use rules and guidelines and associated consequences.

10. What parental controls will be available?

We are discussing several options that would allow parents enhanced control at home, if necessary, and will communicate that at a later date.

11. What if the laptop gets broken, lost or stolen?

The laptops have a full warranty that covers hardware and software failures. If the computer is physically damaged or lost, families would be responsible for a portion of the repair or replacement on a progressive fine schedule. The exact amounts are to be determined and depend on the extent of the damage and how many times the student has lost or damaged the computer.

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12. What is BSM doing to prepare for next year’s laptop implementation?

BSM’s goal is to create a positive learning experience for everyone involved. To that end, we are taking the following steps to prepare for the launch:

• Providing professional development for teachers
• Updating the network infrastructure (almost all is currently in place)
• Hiring additional staff
• Creating policies for the use of the laptops
• Hosting information sessions for parents (live link to registration form)
• Offering a summer program for students who want to improve their technology skills before the school year

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