Mobile Learning Program FAQ
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USING AN IPAD AT NEW TRIER
CARE/MAINTENANCE
How do I best care for the iPad?
- Only use a clean, soft cloth to clean the device's screen; don't use cleansers of any type. Microfiber cloth is best.
- Insert and remove charging cables carefully to prevent damage to connectors.
- Handle the device carefully. Screens can crack when dropped, twisted or subjected to pressure from stepping or leaning on them. Do not stack other objects (books, binders, etc.) on top of the iPad. Be careful with carrying iPads in backpacks. The weight of other objects in a backpack is often enough to crack an iPad screen or warp the frame. AppleCare+ does not cover warped frames.
- Do not leave the iPad in places of extreme temperature, humidity, or limited ventilation (e.g., in a car) for an extended period of time.
- Students are expected to keep food and beverages away from the device.
- Make sure the iPad and accessories are secure when they are out of sight. iPads should not be left in an unlocked locker, a desk, a backpack, or other locations where someone might take it. Do not leave iPads unsecured while charging in public places.
- Students should secure their iPads with a Passcode. This protects their data from theft and loss.
- Do not remove or damage the iPad's asset tag.
How do I best care for my Logitech Rugged Combo keyboard case?
The product must be registered with Logitech to be eligible to file a warranty claim. We recommend registering your product immediately. For more information about the Logitech Limited Hardware Warranty, visit:
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/footer/terms-of-use?id=3101
New Trier cannot facilitate the warranty claim process. The claim process is between the family and the Logitech company.
Registration/Warranty Claim: http://support.logitech.com/en_us/product/ruggedcombo/warranty
- Click "Register Your Product."
- Create an account and enter the product serial number, located on the inside of the case.
- Click "File a Claim."
- Describe the problem in the text field. Knowledge base articles will populate based on keywords from your description.
- Click "I still need help" to continue through the claim process.
- Fill out the fields in the web form including product serial number and then click "Submit."
Students are not required to use the Logitech Rugged Combo case given by the District. Students may choose to use a case that better fits their style or needs.
The iPad that I purchased a few years ago is now slow and/or running out of space, what can I do to improve its performance?
We are currently working on curating online resources to assist students with older iPads. At this time, please send students to the Support Center (Inside the library at Northfield or outside the library at Winnetka) for assistance.
PARENT RIGHTS
My student is using their iPad at all hours of the night, is there a way to automatically lock them out of non-academic apps or shut off the iPad?
While New Trier requires students to have iPads at school, there is no directive about using iPads at home. Parents may do anything they deem fit to manage their student's use of the iPad while outside the district that does not interfere with New Trier's management of the iPad. Beginning with the release iOS 12, Apple has included some additional parental controls that can limit what your student is able to do on their iPad. There are also options for managing an iPad under restrictions or family sharing . For more information on teenagers' use of the iPad, click here .
My student spends most of their time gaming or watching movies on their iPad, can I restrict how they use their iPads at home?
While New Trier requires students to have iPads at school, there is no directive about using iPads at home. Parents may do anything they deem fit to manage their student's use of the iPad while outside the district that does not interfere with New Trier's management of the iPad. Apple does provide some restrictions for parents; however, many of these restrictions are designed for younger children and may interfere with a student's ability to use the iPad at school.
Does New Trier filter the internet at school or at home?
In accordance with the law, New Trier provides web filtration on all devices that connect to our network. We are unable to restrict devices connected to cell coverage although school regulations state that students must access the internet through New Trier while on the campus. Once students are at home, iPads connect to the internet through home Wi-Fi on your personal network. For more information on how to restrict access at home, please contact your Wi-Fi provider.
EBOOKS
How do I purchase eBooks?
eBooks are purchased through the New Trier bookstore at the same time as traditional textbook purchases. Please do not unseal eBook access codes until instructed to do so by a teacher as they are non-refundable once opened.
What eBook does my student need?
You should receive your booklist with your schedule.
The code given to my student for his/her eBook does not work. What should I do?
Please have your student return to the New Trier bookstore with their original code and they will be provided with a replacement code.
Why are eBooks used instead of textbooks?
eBooks provide many benefits. They are lighter-weight, provide multimedia interactivity, offer note-taking tools, sharing notes, search features, and more. Teachers adhere to a thoughtful textbook/eBook evaluation process to ensure that the content and the format are ideal for enhancing the learning experience. Additionally, eBooks can translate into significant cost savings for families. For more information about eBooks at New Trier, click HERE .
HISTORY OF THE MLP PROGRAM
How long has New Trier been 1:1 (one to one) with mobile learning devices?
New Trier's Mobile Learning Program began as a small pilot in 2010-2011. Since then, the program has expanded to the entire school community. The first year of 1:1 with iPads was the 2014-2015 school year. Please go to " About the Mobile Learning Program " web page for more detailed information.
Why is every student required to have an iPad? Can't students learn just as well without technology?
While technology is used in different ways and to different degrees in each classroom, we have guaranteed teachers that, at a minimum, students will have an iPad to support curricular learning goals. This allows teachers to plan for lessons in the same way that requiring all students to have a pen and paper would. iPads allow students access to our learning management system, the internet, classroom resources, and multimedia apps in every classroom. This levels the playing field for all students and allows our teachers to provide the best learning experience for students.
Why were iPads chosen as the 1:1 device? Are these reasons still valid? Are other devices being considered for the future of the MLP?
Each year, the technology department works with staff and students to evaluate the Mobile Learning Program in order to assure that the best resources are chosen to achieve learning goals. You can read the 2015-2016 MLP Board Report here or watch the Report presented to the Board here . We take into account how teachers are asking their students to use the device as well as how the device can help support learning in the classroom. We then determine how device management will affect how useful the tool will be in the classroom. Finally, we take into account the cost to purchase or lease devices for students in order to make the program as affordable as possible. While we feel iPads are the best option at the present time, other devices have been considered including Macbook Pros, Surface Pros, and Chromebooks. Any new device would be thoroughly vetted, and changes would have to go through a committee that included input from all stakeholders - students, teachers, administration, department leadership, and parents/guardians.
HOW IPADS ARE USED AT NT
Why does my iPad have an asset tag?
Since everyone at New Trier has an iPad, it is very difficult to distinguish between devices. The asset tag allows us to quickly identify the device and provide services to students including finding lost iPads.
My student went to school without a fully charged iPad, is there a place they can charge it during the day?
Yes, New Trier allows students to charge their device at the TrevIT counter. Both campuses also have public locations for students to plug in their own chargers should they need to. If students are having trouble maintaining their battery levels, they may purchase a portable charger or should look into battery saving techniques such as limiting the non-educational use of the iPad during the school day or turning off bluetooth.
How are iPads used in classrooms at New Trier?
iPads are used in various ways at New Trier. For examples, follow this link .
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ACCEPTABLE DEVICES, ACCESSORIES, AND PURCHASING
PURCHASING PROGRAM
How much is the subsidy provided to families when purchasing an iPad?
Families are eligible for a one-time subsidy per student.
Is there a discount for purchasing more than one iPad at the same time (multiple students enrolled)?
No, there is no discount for purchasing more than one iPad at the same time.
My student is starting at New Trier mid-year, how do we acquire an iPad from New Trier?
Please contact the iPad Helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net for information about mid-year transfers. The process is basically the same except you will have a personal orientation instead of a group orientation.
I didn't purchase an iPad at the beginning of the school year and now I would like to. Can I do that?
You may purchase an iPad within the purchase window, which is usually mid-April through mid-May. Once this window closes, iPad purchases will need special approval and will be subject to availability. Please contact the iPad Helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net for information about mid-year purchases.
What is the purchase window for the 2022-2023 school year?
The iPad portal will be open from May 4th to June 13th, 2022 . In order to ensure every student has a fully-configured iPad by the first day of school, it is very important that we receive accurate purchase information as soon as possible.
I already purchased an iPad through New Trier, but need to purchase another one. Can I do that?
You may only purchase one subsidized iPad per student through New Trier over the course of the student's academic career at NTHS. Replacement iPads must still be purchased through New Trier at the unsubsidized price. Please visit the helpdesk at either campus for assistance.
I cannot afford to purchase an iPad for my student at this time, is there a way to still obtain an iPad at a free/reduced rate or spread the payments out over time?
All students receive a subsidy toward the purchase of an iPad and case provided by the district.
If you believe that you qualify for Financial Assistance, please contact the office of the Assistant Principal for Student Programs and Operations at (847) 784-2263. Once you are approved and enrolled in the Financial Assistance Program, we will be able to loan your student an iPad at no cost for as long as you qualify for the program.
If you do not qualify for Financial Assistance, you may still spread payments out over four equal installments as a means of making the iPad purchase more affordable. Please contact the Business Office to set up a payment plan.
PROGRAM RULES
I purchased an iPad for my student, but now we are moving out of the district. Can I sell the iPad back?
iPads that were purchased through New Trier to students who will not be attending New Trier, have not attended an orientation, and have not received their iPad will receive a full refund. A full refund will be issued to the credit card used to make the initial purchase. Contact the iPad Help Line for information about returning an iPad by emailing iPadHelp@nths.net .
However, once the device is given to the student it is no longer eligible for a full refund.
Students who transfer out of the district mid-year may not sell their iPad back to the district, but should contact iPad support at iPadHelp@nths.net in order to have New Trier's device management profiles removed from the iPad. It is important that this is done before the student leaves New Trier, because it is much more difficult to remove these profiles remotely.
PURCHASE OPTIONS
My student is trying to decide between New Trier and another high school. What is my last date to purchase an iPad and sign up for orientations?
If you are not sure if you will be attending New Trier in the fall, you have two options: (1) Purchase an iPad now and possibly receive a full refund if you do not pick up the device, or (2) Wait to purchase an iPad and potentially miss out on preferred iPad training days and times. You may receive a refund on an iPad if you decide to not attend New Trier, provided the device is not taken from the school.
How do I set up a payment plan?
If you are having difficulty paying the full cost of the iPad up-front, a payment plan can be set up to spread payments out over the course of 1 year (3 equal installments). Contact the Business Office to arrange for a payment plan by calling (847) 784-2660.
IPAD LOAN PROGRAMS
How do I know if I qualify for an iPad loan?
If you qualify for financial assistance from the district, you will be provided with a loaned iPad at no cost once your enrollment in the Financial Assistance Program is finalized. Qualification for district financial assistance, including the free lunch program, is based on household income and the guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Agriculture .
Is there a loan, lease-to-own, rental, or other programs I can use instead of purchasing an iPad?
At this point, almost all iPads used at New Trier are student-owned. The only exceptions are for students who qualify for Financial Assistance, students who are exempt, exchange students, and students with an IEP or other accommodations. The nearest program to a lease-to-own option is the payment plan option which spreads payments out over one year.
My student left their iPad at home, can they borrow an iPad for the day?
No. Sorry. We do not provide loaned iPads for students who forget their iPads.
ACCEPTABLE ACCESSORIES
I don't like the keyboard case that came with the iPad. Do I have to use it? Can I use a different case or no case?
We highly suggest that you use a case on your iPad that provides some protection against breakage. We do not require a specific case and students are welcome to purchase a different case for their iPads at any time. Many teachers request that their students have a keyboard for their iPads, but this is up to individual teachers. Before purchasing a new case for your iPad that does not include a keyboard, check with your student's teachers to assure that a keyboard is not a requirement of any of their classes. Keep in mind that New Trier is not able to deduct the cost of the district-recommended case should your family decide on a different case .
I lost/broke the charger to my iPad, how do I get another one?
Under the terms of AppleCare+, broken chargers (bricks and cables) are covered for replacement. Please go to an Apple Store to obtain a replacement. AppleCare+ does not coverlost/stolen chargers which must be replaced by students at their own expense. New Trier does not have extra chargers on hand.
Does New Trier provide/sell styluses or Apple Pencils?
No. For students who find it easier to write on an iPad with a stylus or Apple Pencil, there are many options available through Follett or other retailers.
Does New Trier provide/sell portable chargers?
No. We recommend that students charge their iPads each night in preparation for school the next day. If you find that the battery does not last long enough to stay charged through the day, we suggest purchasing a portable charger.
How can I extend my iPad's battery life throughout the school day?
Here are some good habits for extending your iPad's battery life:
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IPAD CONTENT, APPS & TROUBLESHOOTING
APPLE IDS
How do I create a new Apple ID?
If you have never created a personal Apple ID before, you will need to create one before attending an orientation. You will need to create an Apple ID and verify it through your email address. If you do not have a personal email address, you may use your (studentID#)@student.nths.net email address via Gmail.How do I update the email on an existing Apple ID?
If you already have an Apple ID that is not managed by another institution, you may continue to use this Apple ID at New Trier. To update the email address, go to appleid.apple.com to access your account. You will need to have access to the email linked to your Apple ID.Why does New Trier use personal Apple IDs instead of school-maintained Apple IDs?
Because New Trier does not limit or restrict students from any apps on the iPad, we believe it is important for students to have access to all of their apps under one Apple ID. We will gift or "loan" apps to students' personal Apple IDs and will be able to see some basic account information, but we will not have access to your Apple ID account.Should I share an Apple ID with family members?
It is highly recommended that students do not share their Apple IDs with anyone. We understand that many of our students have been sharing an Apple ID with parents or siblings. Once a student reaches high school, access to apps and having access to account information is critical. Best practice is for students to have access to the Apple ID password and email account linked to the Apple ID at all times.Family sharing will allow students to continue to access apps from family accounts, but will limit a student's ability to purchase (even free) apps needed for classes during the school day. There are situations where a family will find it necessary to more closely monitor a student's access to an Apple ID, but we would like families to seriously consider giving their student an independent Apple ID. For more information on Apple Restrictions , Family sharing , or managing an Apple ID , please click on the links.
NEW TRIER DEVICE MANAGEMENT
What are the profiles New Trier puts on my iPad
All iPads are enrolled in New Trier's Mobile Device Management (MDM) system called JAMF (Self Service). This installs an enrollment profile, which allows New Trier to assign apps to students, track missing iPads, and allow iPads to be used for testing. This profile shall not be removed while the student attends New Trier. Violation of this could result in discipline as outlined in the Acceptable Use Regulation .My student no longer attends New Trier and we need to remove the profiles on the iPad, how do we do that?
Please contact the iPad Helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net to assist in this process. It is best to do this before the student leaves New Trier as this is difficult to do over the phone.BACKING UP
How do I backup to the iCloud or iTunes?
It is very important to maintain a backup on your iPad. Things happen and iPads break. For more information on how to backup your iPad, see Apple's Backup Page.I do not have enough iCloud space, how do I backup my iPad?
You have two options for backing up if you do not have enough iCloud space. (1) purchase more iCloud space from Apple. This is relatively inexpensive, but it is a monthly fee. (2) Back your iPad up to iTunes on your home computer. This is a free option, but it does require you to manually backup, whereas an iCloud backup is automatic.TROUBLESHOOTING
I am unable to download an app from Self-Service. Where do I go for help?
If you are unable to download an app from Self-Service, visit one of our Technology Support Centers (inside the library at Northfield or outside the library at Winnetka) for assistance.What do I do if my Canvas app isn't working properly?
Make Sure Your iPad is up to date
Canvas continually makes improvements to the Student iOS app through the release of regular app updates. If Canvas is crashing, not submitting assignments, or generally misbehaving, check to make sure you have the latest version of the Student app. You can check for updates by going to the App Store and looking for any notifications in the upper right corner.Since this doesn't always catch all of the available updates, you can search the App Store for Canvas Student and check the version history for the most recent version, and see if an update is available.
In addition, Apple regularly releases updates to the iPad's operating system, including a large, yearly upgrade, typically in the fall. Make sure these updates are installed as well, as they can impact functionality. You can check for iPadOS updates in Settings>General>Software Update. It's best to run these iPadOS updates when your iPad is not needed for an extended period of time, as they can sometimes take an hour or more to fully update.
After installing any iPadOS updates, it's always good to check for app updates again, as you are typically only shown the latest update you can install with your current OS.
What do I do if I can't submit to Canvas and my Canvas app is up to date?
If you are ever having trouble submitting work to an assignment through the Student app, you can always try to log into Canvas through a web browser. Simply log in to newtrier.instructure.com or use the Canvas Web icon on your iPad to reach the site. From there you should be able to navigate to your course, find the assignment, and submit through the browser.What if I can't see pictures on my teacher's Canvas page?
If you are unable to see pictures on your teacher's Canvas page, you need to turn on "Cross-Website Tracking".Navigate to "Settings">Student>Turn on "Allow Cross-Website Tracking"
Where do students go if they want to learn more about using an app?
Many app tutorials are available on YouTube. If you are unable to find what you are looking for there, you can also get app help on school days from 7:30am to 4pm at one of our Technology Support Centers (inside the library at Northfield or outside the library at Winnetka). -
IPAD REPAIR, LOSS & DAMAGE
LOST/FOUND IPADS
My student lost their iPad at school. Is there a way to track it?
Yes, any iPad registered with our mobile device management system (required on all iPads used for school) can be tracked on our WiFi. Students should go to trevIT (inside the library at Northfield or outside the library at Winnetka) for assistance tracking iPads. You can also track iPads through Apple's Find My App through the iCloud.
My student's iPad was stolen, how do I get a new one?
New Trier does not provide coverage for stolen/lost iPads. We recommend that families look at their homeowners insurance policy, cell phone coverage, or register their device through a 3rd-party company that will provide that type of coverage for your devices: Worth Ave Group or GoCare .
IPAD REPAIR, REPLACEMENT & SUPPORT
How can I check to see whether my device is covered by AppleCare+ or not?
First, look at https://checkcoverage.apple.com/ to see if you can look up warranty information on that device. If this does not help, email us at iPadHelp@nths.net . We will be able to look up information on your iPad including warranty information, iPad model, purchase information, etc.
My student's iPad is broken and I have AppleCare+, what do I do to get it fixed?
Bring the broken iPad to trevIT (inside the library at Northfield or outside the library at Winnetka). Staff there are trained to assess the iPad and facilitate a AppleCare+ claim with Apple.
My student's iPad is broken and I did not purchase AppleCare+, what do I do to get it fixed?
The first place to start is trevIT (inside the library at Northfield or outside the library at Winnetka). There, the technology staff can assess the condition of your iPad. Some iPads may be eligible for repairs coordinated through New Trier. If this is the case for your iPad, we will be able to give you information about the replacement/repair process.
My student has already used up their two repairs through AppleCare+ or is no longer covered by AppleCare+...What do I do now to get the iPad repaired/replaced?
The student can still stop by trevIT inside the library (Northfield) or outside the library (Winnetka) to have their iPad looked over by technology staff. After assessing the device, technology staff will advise on the options available to repair/replace the device. We are unable to facilitate iPads outside the warranty period and cannot provide a new iPad to the student.
ACCESSORY SUPPORT
Why is the keyboard case not covered by insurance?
New Trier uses AppleCare+ to replace broken iPads. This is an Apple-only warranty program and, therefore, does not cover non-iPad issues.
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MLP POLICIES & SERVICES
What are New Trier's policies regarding technology use?
There are three documents regarding technology use at New Trier: Board Policies and Acceptable Use Regulations(AUR) pertain to all technology usage at New Trier and the Mobile Learning Program Acknowledgement (MLPA) pertains specifically to the Mobile Learning Program (i.e. iPad usage).
TECH DEPARTMENT STUDENT/FAMILY SERVICES
My student went to school without a fully charged iPad. Is there a place they can charge it during the day?
Yes, New Trier allows students to charge their device at the TrevIT counter. Both campuses also have public locations for students to plug in their own chargers should they need to. If students are having trouble maintaining their battery levels, they may purchase a portable charger or should look into battery saving techniques such as limiting the non-educational use of the iPad during the school day or turning off bluetooth.
My student left their iPad at home, can they borrow an iPad for the day?
No. Sorry. We are not able to provide loaner iPads for students who forget their iPads.
HOW TO CONTACT TECH SUPPORT
How do I contact the Technology Department if I have a question?
Email the iPad Helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net . We do our best to answer within 24 hours; however, this is not always possible. If you have not heard back from us within 3 days, please try reaching out again.
Is there a way to give my input on how the iPad program is working for my family?
We always welcome your opinions, comments, and concerns in regards to the Mobile Learning Program. Please follow this link to leave your comments.
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IPAD ORIENTATIONS (SUMMER 2022)
When are orientations for the 2022-2023 school year?
Students must attend one of the listed orientation times. If you are unable to attend any of these dates, please contact support by emailing iPadHelp@nths.net to set up an alternative orientation. All students must complete the orientation before receiving an iPad and teachers expect all students to know how to use the iPad on the first day of school.
My student missed their orientation, when can they make that up?
Yes, please contact the iPad Help Line at iPadHelp@nths.net to reschedule. Please allow 24 hours over the summer for a reply as we are busy providing orientations during this time. You can always log back into the MLP iPad Selection Portal to change your iPad Training date.
None of the orientation times work for my family, are there other options?
Please contact the iPad Helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net to schedule. Please allow 72 hours over the summer for a reply as we are busy providing orientations during this time.
What is covered during orientation?
During the orientation, students will receive their iPad, get set up with apps for school, learn how to use common apps, learn basic troubleshooting techniques, become acquainted with the Acceptable Use Regulation, learn about the Digital Footprint, and set up school-related accounts.
My student has been using an iPad for a number of years, why do they need to attend this orientation?
Many students attending New Trier have been in a 1:1 environment in their middle schools or junior highs. Many students have also used iPads for a number of years as an entertainment device. The point of the iPad orientation is not to teach students the basics of the iPad, although resources will be available for students who are new to the iPad. iPad orientations allow us to assure that students are able to use basic New Trier apps, are acquainted with the Acceptable Use Policy, and have the skills needed to use an iPad at New Trier. Students come to New Trier with a variety of backgrounds using technology, and this orientation assures that all students are ready for school, day one.
How do I sign my student up for an orientation?
If you will have a freshman at New Trier next year, you should have received an email about signing your student up for an orientation. You will do this at the time of iPad purchase. If your student is an upperclassman, you may go directly to the Mobile Learning Website to sign up for an orientation. If you are having any difficulty signing up, please contact the iPad Helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net .
My student is purchasing an iPad for the first time, but they are not a new student. Do they need to attend the orientation?
Yes, they must attend an orientation to receive the iPad; however, they will not be required to stay for the full orientation.
My student is attending New Trier for the first time, but they are not a freshman. Do they still need to attend the orientation?
Yes, all new students must attend an orientation. If you are beginning New Trier mid-year, you will attend a personalized orientation during a free period or after school. For more information, please contact the iPad helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net .
My student is a mid-year transfer student. Do they need to attend an orientation to obtain their iPad?
Yes, all new students must attend an orientation. If you are beginning New Trier mid-year, you will attend a personalized orientation during a free period or after school. For more information, please contact the iPad helpline at iPadHelp@nths.net .