iPads

Management System for iPads in Edmonds

In order to make our iPads work in an enterprise environment, we use a mobile device management (MDM) system called jamf (formerly ZuluDesk). This system impacts how iPad users access and use information, accounts, and apps.

Apple IDs

On Signing Into a Device with a Personal Apple ID - iPad users can log into iPads using personal Apple IDs. Be aware that the iCloud (specific features, like photos, messaging) will be unavailable. The primary purpose of logging in is to get apps in the App Store. See below for instructions on logging in with a personal Apple ID. 

Using Apple IDs to Obtain Apps - For apps that were purchased using a personal Apple ID (not a district Apple ID), users will need to log in to the App Store and download the apps.

How to log-in to the App store:

1. Open the App Store.

2. Click on the user icon on the top right. A popup for signing in or out will appear.

3. Sign out of the store if it is signed in with an ID other than your own.

4. Enter your Apple ID and Password.

Note, when you sign in to the iTunes Store, you also automatically sign in to the App Store, Music, Apple Books, and Podcasts apps on your device - unless these have been turned off.

Connecting to Wifi

Go to Settings > Wifi > choose ESD network. When prompted, use your own district credentials: username and password. Tap "Trust” to accept the security certificate.

Students are not allowed to have personal devices on the network, and the iPads are viewed by the network as personal devices, so their credentials will not work. 

If the other ESD networks (such as Secure or Guest) are attempted, it can interfere with connecting to the correct network. Please do not use these.

Occasionally, the device may not connect to wifi because the district credentials used to connect have changed (i.e. new password). In this case, users will need to "forget the network" and re-join with updated credentials as above.

Getting Apps

The ability to download apps on the iPad is restricted to district staff only. This allows us to be in compliance of app licenses. Some apps have been provided, others are available upon request.

To get free apps, you can use a personal Apple ID account, which is set up with an Edmonds email address. If you don’t have an Apple ID for this purpose, you can create a new one. You do not need a credit card to do so. 

To Create an Apple ID without a credit card:

• 1. Confirm device is connected to Wifi.

  2. Go to https://appleid.apple.com.

  3. Follow the onscreen instructions. You need to use a legitimate email address: e.g. your school email, which will be your Apple ID. Create a password you will remember!

Once you have created an Apple ID account, you can now use this Apple ID to download free apps OR low cost apps, using a gift card, as explained below.

To purchase apps costing less than $10, you can use a personal Apple ID as above. To pay for the purchase, you can buy a gift card at the store (e.g. $15, $20, $25) and then redeem it under your Apple ID account. To redeem your gift card, tap on the App Store, click on the "Featured" icon at the bottom of the iPad and then scroll down to the bottom until you see the box "Redeem". Take your gift card, uncover the gift code, and type the code manually into the iPad.

Reimbursement for gift cards: you can use your discretionary funds. However, you must document it as "Teacher Supplies'". You will not be reimbursed for anything listed as apps or gift cards.

To obtain more expensive apps, make a request using this form: app request for AT.

For apps costing more than $10, apps can be purchased through the Volume Purchase Program (VPP). To request a purchase through the VPP program, send a request along with a link to the app in the Apple store. Once the app is purchased through the VPP program, it can be pushed out to the device remotely.

Guidelines for Using Specific Types of Apps

Apps for Communication: Parents and private therapists should not modify or add vocabulary without first checking with school therapist for alignment with IEP goals and objectives. Apps are chosen by the team to support learning and communication. The district has licenses for apps that are used on the device. 

Refer to the AT Tool Kit for guidance while using select apps such as Snap Type Pro, etc.

Backing up Customized Apps

Users must take measures to back up any data that has been customized for specific students. This also includes data that is stored during therapy sessions, such as Speech.

Common strategies include using Google Drive and Dropbox. iCloud is not available.

In other words, users must understand that any apps added, and data created therein, could be erased when returned to the AT Library.

Updating the Operating System (iOS)

For devices enrolled in the MDM, updates will automatically occur on a schedule that is set by iPad administrators. Users must be connected to wi-fi for updates and may need to tap through pop up boxes confirming that an update was performed. 

Some apps and features will not work under a new operating system, so it is important to test updates prior to them being installed.

Care of the iPad

Cords and cables must be inserted and removed carefully to prevent undue wear and damage. Only one cable and charger is issued per iPad. Care should be taken to prevent iPad, cables and accessories from getting wet. Avoid exposure to heat or cold extremes.

iPad should remain free of any personalizing stickers, labels or markings beyond what Edmonds School District provides. 

Use only clean, soft cloth to wipe the screen. Do not use liquids or cleansers of any type.

Troubleshooting and Repairs

Specific strategies may change with each iOS or device update, however, some common practices are good to keep in mind. Refer to this cheat sheet for common strategies:

iPads that malfunction or are damaged must be reported to the AT Specialist or Dept. by the student’s teacher, case manager, or therapist.

If a device is malfunctioning, we will attempt to replace/repair it as soon as possible. However, there are many variables in replacing a device such as customizing configuration, installing apps, restoring AAC vocabulary, and the availability of a similar device.