Technology

A: Any iPad currently on the market should be sufficient. Newer models will undoubtedly offer more features and be compatible with most APPS currently available.

A: St. Joseph requires students to have the following:

1. A cover/case to protect their device from damage (any brand cover/case is acceptable).
2. Parents should strongly consider purchasing an extend care or an insurance replacement program available at many retailers at the time of purchase.
3. An Apple ID account and an iTunes account for the purchasing of apps.
4. An iCloud account with “find my iPhone/iPad” app installed.

A: No. Given the widespread availability of iPads by different retailers, St. Joseph High School wants parents to make the purchase from a company or store of their choice.

A: No. St. Joseph is very committed to helping parents and students, but all available funding, including scholarships, must still go toward tuition assistance.

A: No. While St. Joseph recognizes other electronic devices or tablets exist, the decision was made to go exclusively with the iPad.

A: Yes. All electronic text books and books lists can be found on https://k12sd.com/

A: Yes. Students will only be allowed to access the Internet through the school’s network while on campus. No other network will be allowed, including 3G, 4G or LTE.

A: Similar to cell phones, the iPad is the student/parent’s property and it will be the student's responsibility to properly care for, protect and secure the iPad at all times. Some retailers will replace your broken or damaged iPad with a new one if you buy into their replacement program. Please know that replacement programs cover damage or malfunctions, not lost or stolen iPads.

A: Under most circumstances, no. Students will be able to install their own music, games, or apps, similar to their phones. Please be aware that with the 16 GB model students will not be able to store excessive amounts of music, games, photos or apps. Similar to our cell phone policy, inappropriate photos or other images will not be allowed on the iPad.

A: While students are required to register their iPad with the school, parents and students should also record their iPad serial number at home. It is also recommended that students have their name engraved on the iPad. Investigate whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance would cover a lost or stolen iPad. Make sure you install the “Find my iPhone” app (it uses GPS to locate your iPad).

A: Yes. While the iPad should be able to handle most of the students computing needs, it is not intended to replace a desktop computer or laptop. We still strongly suggest students use a PC or MAC computer to compliment the usage of the iPad.

A: No, but it will be helpful as many classes will use the Internet to access content, do research and communicate with their teachers and peers. Also note that the iPad has no wired connection and can only access the Internet via a wireless connection.

A: SJHS uses Internet filters on its computer networks on campus. While on campus, iPads will be filtered using the same technology. While no Internet filtering is 100% effective, it does help cut down on students browsing inappropriate websites.

A: Yes. These policies will be outlined in the Technology Usage section of The Shield.