Embedded Files
Device Requirements for Grade 4 Students at ABA
Device Requirements for Grade 4 Students at ABA
Grade 4 is a transitional period at ABA where students have the chance to begin their move from iPads to laptops. Families that already have an iPad and wish to continue using it may do so, while families that find this to be a good time to purchase a laptop may avail themselves of this option.
Future-Proofing: Should you choose a laptop for your Grade 4 student, please note that these devices will remain required through Grade 5 and beyond.
Regardless of the device students use, they are encouraged to have a working keyboard and headphones. Devices should be brought to school every day fully charged and in good working order.
*Please make sure your child has a place to charge their devices (iPad, keyboard, and headphones) and help them develop a charging and packing routine for their devices every school day.*
Laptop purchasing guidelines
Laptop purchasing guidelines
Specs: When selecting a device, please ensure it meets or exceeds the following minimum specifications:
Memory: At least 8 GB RAM
Storage: At least 256 GB
Screen Size: At least 13 inches
Battery Life: At least 4 hours
We understand that purchasing a laptop is a significant investment, and every family's circumstances are different. While iPads can still be used in Grade 5, they may present challenges. Similarly, outdated or slow devices can hinder students' learning. If possible, we recommend using a device no older than four years.
If your child will be using a laptop previously set up for an adult, please factory reset it and configure it for their use.
When choosing a device, consider its longevity and your child’s ability to care for it. For example, while a MacBook Air is expensive, it is also durable and powerful enough to last throughout Secondary School with proper care. On the other hand, budget-friendly devices may be more prone to breaking or becoming obsolete sooner, making them a suitable option for students who might be at risk of losing or damaging their device.
Suggested Laptop Examples*:
*Please note that ABA does not endorse any particular brand or store for purchasing devices and only lists these as examples of laptops at certain specifications and price points.
If you have any questions or need help purchasing a device, please feel free to contact our ES Ed Tech Coordinator at kmccullough@abaoman.org.
Laptop Setup Guide
Laptop Setup Guide
Mac OS Laptops and iPads - All families must set up an Apple ID for your child as they are under 13 years of age and cannot create their own. If you also have your own Apple ID, you can enable family sharing to make it easier to manage app installation.
Set iMessage to "Contacts Only" during Screentime
Student Macbooks and iPads must have Screen Time properly configured to prevent students from installing Apps without parent permission. Please share your Screen Time code through this link so that teachers can assist students at school.
Windows OS Laptops - Set up Microsoft Family Safety to restrict access to inappropriate content.
Families are responsible for installing school apps, updating devices, and maintenance and repair of devices.
For any other help or assistance with laptop purchasing or setup, please see the resources below or contact our Ed Tech Coordinator Kirk McCullough (kmccullough@abaoman.org).
iPad purchasing guidelines
iPad purchasing guidelines
Specs: When selecting a device, please ensure it meets or exceeds the following minimum specifications:
iPad 9th generation or later
At least 64 GB Storage - less than 64 GB storage may cause issues
Keyboard and protective case (Example)
Charger and cable for home use
Headphones
iPad Setup Guide
iPad Setup Guide
Equipment Set Up
Purchase, set up, and update appropriate devices
Protective case, keyboard, and headphones
Clearly label case with your child’s name
Set the name of the iPad as your child’s name
Settings > General > About > Name
Apple ID, Family Sharing, and Screen Time Set Up
Create an Apple Account for your child
Enable Family Sharing if you have an iPhone
Set up Screen Time to restrict the downloading of apps and limit access to inappropriate content
Set a Screen Time Passcode. Please share your Screen Time Passcode here with the school here. This will allow us to install apps and troubleshoot the device while it is at school.
Under App Store, Media, Web, & Games, set Web Content to Limit Adult Websites
Set Apps to the age limit appropriate for your child
Set Music, Podcasts, News, Fitness and Books to Clean
Set iMessage to "Contacts Only" during Screentime
Video tutorial: Setup iPhone/iPad Parental controls using Family Sharing and Screen Time
Install the required apps:
Seesaw
Canva
iMovie
Slides
Notes
Gmail
Epic
Google Translate
Google Drive
Google Meet (needed in case of Online learning)
Responsible Use of Technology
Page updated
Report abuse