School Officials Recommend 1-to-1 iPad Program for Grade 6

A proposal to widen the 1-to-1 iPad program in Needham schools was announced last week.

“We believe the iPad 1-to-1 program will strengthen student learning; increase student organization and confidence; and ensure personalized learning experiences become routine rather than random and occasional—for struggling students and for students requiring more challenging curriculum,” said Gutekanst.

The plan asks parents to purchase or lease an iPad for their student(s), with a limited amount of “loaner” iPads for those who cannot purchase or lease a device.

Gutekanst said last week that it is “critical to have at least 85 percent participation” in the program.

The school department will support the initiative on infrastructure, personnel and professional development levels, said the superintendent.

Several other communities already use iPads, or will use them in the fall, including Weston, Shrewsbury, Burlington, Wellesley, Millis and Bedford.

To learn more about the 1-to-1 personalized learning initiative, read the report here.