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1 to 1 Laptop Program

We want to improve the way you learn in the Upper Merion Area School District! Our  High School "One Student-to-One Device" program has been in place since the 2009-2010 school year, and gives every student a device to use in class and at home. We believe that classrooms filled with technology, led by well-trained teachers, will make learning more engaging and effective.

Our goals:
  • Challenge you more: We want to raise the bar in your classes to prepare you better for college or whatever comes next.
  • Make learning fun: By using technology in creative ways, we want to make schoolwork more interesting and interactive. 
  • Support different learning styles: Technology allows teachers to tailor lessons to your individual needs. 
  • Equal access for all: Everyone gets a device, so financial background doesn't limit your learning opportunities.

Guidelines

For High School students, MacBook Air laptops, chargers, and cases are all loaned to you by the Upper Merion Area School District. Each student is responsible for taking good care of them.

Students/parents will be responsible for an insurance acquisition fee payment of  $30 per year. The district will pay to get insurance for students who qualify for free and reduced lunch or have other documented financial need. Insurance will cover theft or damage with a deductible payment required for each claim. If a laptop is broken and the damage isn't covered by insurance, you (or your parents) will be responsible for the cost of repairs.  More information about insurance is HERE.

Laptop Distribution & Collection
  • Laptops are checked out to students during the first week of school. This ensures everyone has the necessary tools for learning right from the start.
  • At the end of each academic year, student laptops are collected. This annual collection serves several important purposes: it allows the district to update inventory records and provides an opportunity for our technical team to perform essential maintenance and upgrades to both software and hardware.
  • For returning students, the same machine will be reissued in the following school year, ensuring continuity and familiarity.
Following the Rules
  • The MacBooks are for schoolwork. You must follow the district's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), School Board Policy 815, whether you're using it at school or home. You can find the AUP on the district website HERE, as well as School Board Policy 224 Care of School Property. 
  • Misusing the device, charger, case, internet access, or any software could result in losing your privileges.
  • Remember, there's no expectation of privacy when using our devices. Teachers, tech support, and administrators can check your internet history, logs, and other usage records.
Using the Web Wisely:
  • Visiting inappropriate websites or using email for bad purposes will result in losing your privileges. If you accidentally stumble upon something inappropriate, close the site immediately, note the date and time, and tell a teacher or tech staff member.
Software: Only Approved Programs Allowed
  • You are not permitted to install or run any software that hasn't been approved by the school first.
  • You may not connect your school-issued device to a personal Apple account.
School Email and Storage:
  • Everyone gets a district issued email account (UMASD Gmail) and a cloud storage space (Upper Merion Google Drive). These accounts have filters to block inappropriate content and should only be used for schoolwork. They are not private and can be reviewed by school staff and even technical support from outside vendors. Any non-school emails sent through UMASD Gmail may be deleted.

IMPORTANT: Please note that students are not permitted to use personal laptops and tablets during the school day.