Dear Parents:
We are very excited to announce that Hershey High School will be going 1:1 (One to One) in instructional technology for the 2017-18 school year by providing every student with an iPad. Putting the same technology in every student’s hands will help us ensure equity of resources, and the iPad’s easy portability will enhance its accessibility to students at home and at school. With more than 65,000 apps designed specifically for education, the iPad is unmatched as a tool for learning, and we are thrilled with the possibilities this device will bring to our classrooms. We have comprehensive support plans in place to help our faculty maximize the use of iPads for the greatest impact on student learning, engagement, collaboration, and creativity. Additionally, the iPads interface very effectively with Canvas, our common Learning Management System that all students will be using.
As you know, we have had a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program in place for the last few years in an effort to ensure that every student had access to technology. Most students used their cell phones in class as part of this policy, while others brought their own tablets or laptops to school. The 1:1 iPad initiative will, however, reduce the need for personal devices during instructional time unless the teacher approves their use. Students will continue to be permitted to carry cell phones for the 17-18 school year because we recognize that they are a part of 21st century life, and we believe it is important for students to have the opportunity to learn and practice when it is and is not appropriate to use them.
We are writing to ask for your support with our new technology initiatives as follows:
Thank you very much for your cooperation! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
Sincerely,
HHS Administration and The Technology Department