Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to purchase an iPad for my student?
In the 2015-2016 school year,sixth through eighth grade students will be required to bring an iPad to school. All iPads must meet the hardware requirement and be registered with the school. We recommend purchasing an iPad Air or iPad with Retina Display, 32GB, WiFi. Fifth grade students will use school-issued iPads this school year.
Can Kindergarten-Fifth graders bring their own iPads to school?
The HFS 1:1 iPad program is for fifth through eighth grade students. Students in kindergarten through fourth grades may not bring iPads to school. However, kindergarten through fourth grade classes will utilize class sets of iPads. The ratio of iPads to students in lower grades is 1:4. We will expand the program in the following years to include more iPads in each classroom. These iPads will remain at school and will not go home with the students in Kindergarten-fourth grades. Fifth graders will take home their iPads starting in the second trimester.
Will there be technical support for students’ iPads at HFS?
We will continue to provide technical support to students and staff. Our IT specialist provides support for computer and iPad technical issues at HFS.
Will digital textbooks be available for the iPad?
Yes. In addition to Algebra, we have added Spanish, Social Studies, Religion and Language Arts textbooks to student iPads.
Who will backup information on the iPad?
Each student is expected to backup his own information on iTunes or using iCloud, Dropbox or Google Drive.
Can students use their iPads for personal use and install apps or music on the device?
Students may use their iPads for personal use and install additional apps provided they follow the school’s Acceptable Use Policy in the Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
Can students use their iPads to access social media sites?
Our school firewall will prevent access to social media. Students will be able to access social media sites outside of school. However, there are specific websites that are not permitted by school policy. Please refer to the Acceptable Use Policy in the Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
What are the consequences of misuse of the iPad?
Inappropriate material or other offenses will not be tolerated. Please refer to the Archdiocese’s Acceptable Use Policy and Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
Do you have appropriate and responsible use policies and discipline procedures in place for student technology use?
Yes. Please refer to the Archdiocese’s Acceptable Use Policy and Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
What if the iPad runs out of battery during school hours?
Students will be expected to come prepared for class every day with a fully charged iPad. Devices should maintain enough charge for one full school day, but of course battery life varies by use and configuration. It will be expected that students charge their iPad at night for the next day. Considering the variances in activity on the iPad, charging stations will be available, as well as loaner iPads if necessary.
What are the educational objectives of the iPad program?
We have carefully studied the use of iPads in the classroom and evaluated many of applications that are currently available for the iPad. We have found that the curriculum in every subject can be enhanced by use of the iPad. Upper grades will benefit from apps that specifically address the curriculum in social studies, science, language arts, math and religion. The iPad runs applications that support students in multimedia production, as well as offering students the ability to produce word documents, journals, presentations, spreadsheets, podcasts, movies and more. Thus, the overall educational objective is to enhance the curriculum in every subject by using a tool (the iPad) and apps that make learning more engaging, fun, memorable and effective.
In addition, several of the major textbook publishers are now designing and releasing a new generation of digital textbooks with enhanced multi-media content that will take advantage of the interactive nature of the iPad. It is our hope that, in time, we will be able to migrate a significant portion of textbook content to the devices so students will not have to transport so many heavy books to and from home daily. However, many of the textbook manufacturers are still in the process of adapting to this new channel and not all have interactive versions presently available. We ask for your patience as we move in this direction.
How will our teachers be trained to integrate this technology into their curriculum?
Teacher training and preparation is vital to ensure the success of our iPad Program. Professional development opportunities take place throughout the year. One Friday afternoon every month is dedicated to technology-related professional development. In addition, teachers attend technology workshops and conferences including CUE (Computer Using Educators) and others. Ms. Arnold assists teachers with the integration of technology into their classroom curricula.
What is the Catholic Communication and Collaboration Pilot Program (C3)?
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, in partnership with Clearwire, has embarked upon a technology initiative, the Catholic Communication Collaboration (“C3 Pilot”). The C3 Pilot offers parishes and schools an array of technology resources to promote educational excellence and innovation. Holy Family School and Parish is one of 14 sites chosen to pilot the For more information, go to http://www.la-archdiocese.org/org/c3/Pages/default.aspx
Why iPads (vs. other tablets)?
At present, Apple has more educational apps available to support teachers and learning than any other company. We evaluated all of the leading tablet manufacturers and found Apple had the most variety and most relevant apps to support the educational segment. The “always on” functionality of tablets also made it more optimal for classroom use where time is of the essence. We will continue to monitor the industry (hardware and software developments) on an annual basis to ensure we offer our students and teachers the best technology to meet their needs.
Why does HFS require 32GB iPads? Will 16 GB models work?
We require 32 GB iPads due to the large minimum of space required for the many apps used by HFS. We use several large apps for tasks like word processing, writing presentations, video-making, and music. The video in particular means that a student needs a large amount of free space after all the apps are installed, and the free space on a 16 GB iPad once our apps are installed does not leave room for many minutes of video or photographs for presentations.
Did you consider laptops?
The Technology Committee did evaluate the potential use of laptops to support learning. It was determined that a tablet, in conjunction with a keyboard, is capable of supporting our students’ learning and production at the elementary and middle school levels. The iPad is appropriate for our educational purposes and enables us to accomplish our objectives in the most cost-effective manner.
What do I need to have at home to operate the iPad?
You need to have Wi-Fi service available at your home and the provided power adapter in order to support our iPad Program. All students will be required to bring their iPads to school fully charged each day.
Does each student need an Apple ID?
Every student needs to use an Apple ID tied to an email address; this may be the hfknights Apple ID we have created for each student, or the student's existing personal Apple ID. Apple IDs are required to use iCloud in order to backup their work. The Apple ID will be used to enroll in our Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to receive assigned apps, and ensure the device is managed and functioning correctly while on campus.
How do I manage my Apple ID?
Visit AppleID.apple.com to manage your Apple ID. You may also log on to iCloud from any computer.
Will you install an app that filters age-restricted material on the iPads?
While on the Holy Family campus, content will be filtered through Holy Family’s firewall. However, when off campus, the iPad will not have restrictions. It is up to each individual family to determine your own guidelines and parameters (filters, etc.) for internet use in your home. The app Mobicip is a Safe Browser With Parental Control. It can take the place of standard internet browsers including Safari and Chrome.
Who will purchase the apps (applications) that the iPad uses and who will own them?
Holy Family School will purchase, own and maintain (download software updates, add/remove apps and programs, etc.) the necessary iPad apps for school-issued iPads as well as student-owned iPads. Parents will not need to purchase the required apps used at school. The apps will be added to student devices during the first week of school.
What control will the school have over my iPad?
iPads used at Holy Family School will be Supervised and have a Mobile Device Management profile installed. MDM software allows the school to distribute apps and settings to the iPads and lets teachers lock devices into the app the class is currently using. All devices, personally or school owned, will be supervised and enrolled into MDM. This process requires resetting the iPad at the beginning and end of the school year, which will erase all apps and data on it. To restore your data after your iPad has been supervised, sign in to your iCloud account. Anything not backed up will be lost, so make sure you've made local and iCloud backups of your device first.
Will there be any restrictions placed on the iPad?
In general, no. However, parents may choose to place restrictions on their children’s devices. The school-owned devices will be treated with the same policies on personal use as the personally-owned iPads. Students are expected to abide by the conditions of the HFS Responsible Use Policy and iPad agreements.
Can I install apps on my iPad?
Yes, but watch your usage of the iPad’s storage. If you fill your iPad's storage with games, music and movies, you'll have to delete some when you run out of room for school materials. Check the Settings app, in the General/Usage section, to see what's taking up your space on your iPad.
In the 2015-2016 school year,sixth through eighth grade students will be required to bring an iPad to school. All iPads must meet the hardware requirement and be registered with the school. We recommend purchasing an iPad Air or iPad with Retina Display, 32GB, WiFi. Fifth grade students will use school-issued iPads this school year.
Can Kindergarten-Fifth graders bring their own iPads to school?
The HFS 1:1 iPad program is for fifth through eighth grade students. Students in kindergarten through fourth grades may not bring iPads to school. However, kindergarten through fourth grade classes will utilize class sets of iPads. The ratio of iPads to students in lower grades is 1:4. We will expand the program in the following years to include more iPads in each classroom. These iPads will remain at school and will not go home with the students in Kindergarten-fourth grades. Fifth graders will take home their iPads starting in the second trimester.
Will there be technical support for students’ iPads at HFS?
We will continue to provide technical support to students and staff. Our IT specialist provides support for computer and iPad technical issues at HFS.
Will digital textbooks be available for the iPad?
Yes. In addition to Algebra, we have added Spanish, Social Studies, Religion and Language Arts textbooks to student iPads.
Who will backup information on the iPad?
Each student is expected to backup his own information on iTunes or using iCloud, Dropbox or Google Drive.
Can students use their iPads for personal use and install apps or music on the device?
Students may use their iPads for personal use and install additional apps provided they follow the school’s Acceptable Use Policy in the Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
Can students use their iPads to access social media sites?
Our school firewall will prevent access to social media. Students will be able to access social media sites outside of school. However, there are specific websites that are not permitted by school policy. Please refer to the Acceptable Use Policy in the Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
What are the consequences of misuse of the iPad?
Inappropriate material or other offenses will not be tolerated. Please refer to the Archdiocese’s Acceptable Use Policy and Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
Do you have appropriate and responsible use policies and discipline procedures in place for student technology use?
Yes. Please refer to the Archdiocese’s Acceptable Use Policy and Holy Family School Code of Conduct.
What if the iPad runs out of battery during school hours?
Students will be expected to come prepared for class every day with a fully charged iPad. Devices should maintain enough charge for one full school day, but of course battery life varies by use and configuration. It will be expected that students charge their iPad at night for the next day. Considering the variances in activity on the iPad, charging stations will be available, as well as loaner iPads if necessary.
What are the educational objectives of the iPad program?
We have carefully studied the use of iPads in the classroom and evaluated many of applications that are currently available for the iPad. We have found that the curriculum in every subject can be enhanced by use of the iPad. Upper grades will benefit from apps that specifically address the curriculum in social studies, science, language arts, math and religion. The iPad runs applications that support students in multimedia production, as well as offering students the ability to produce word documents, journals, presentations, spreadsheets, podcasts, movies and more. Thus, the overall educational objective is to enhance the curriculum in every subject by using a tool (the iPad) and apps that make learning more engaging, fun, memorable and effective.
In addition, several of the major textbook publishers are now designing and releasing a new generation of digital textbooks with enhanced multi-media content that will take advantage of the interactive nature of the iPad. It is our hope that, in time, we will be able to migrate a significant portion of textbook content to the devices so students will not have to transport so many heavy books to and from home daily. However, many of the textbook manufacturers are still in the process of adapting to this new channel and not all have interactive versions presently available. We ask for your patience as we move in this direction.
How will our teachers be trained to integrate this technology into their curriculum?
Teacher training and preparation is vital to ensure the success of our iPad Program. Professional development opportunities take place throughout the year. One Friday afternoon every month is dedicated to technology-related professional development. In addition, teachers attend technology workshops and conferences including CUE (Computer Using Educators) and others. Ms. Arnold assists teachers with the integration of technology into their classroom curricula.
What is the Catholic Communication and Collaboration Pilot Program (C3)?
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, in partnership with Clearwire, has embarked upon a technology initiative, the Catholic Communication Collaboration (“C3 Pilot”). The C3 Pilot offers parishes and schools an array of technology resources to promote educational excellence and innovation. Holy Family School and Parish is one of 14 sites chosen to pilot the For more information, go to http://www.la-archdiocese.org/org/c3/Pages/default.aspx
Why iPads (vs. other tablets)?
At present, Apple has more educational apps available to support teachers and learning than any other company. We evaluated all of the leading tablet manufacturers and found Apple had the most variety and most relevant apps to support the educational segment. The “always on” functionality of tablets also made it more optimal for classroom use where time is of the essence. We will continue to monitor the industry (hardware and software developments) on an annual basis to ensure we offer our students and teachers the best technology to meet their needs.
Why does HFS require 32GB iPads? Will 16 GB models work?
We require 32 GB iPads due to the large minimum of space required for the many apps used by HFS. We use several large apps for tasks like word processing, writing presentations, video-making, and music. The video in particular means that a student needs a large amount of free space after all the apps are installed, and the free space on a 16 GB iPad once our apps are installed does not leave room for many minutes of video or photographs for presentations.
Did you consider laptops?
The Technology Committee did evaluate the potential use of laptops to support learning. It was determined that a tablet, in conjunction with a keyboard, is capable of supporting our students’ learning and production at the elementary and middle school levels. The iPad is appropriate for our educational purposes and enables us to accomplish our objectives in the most cost-effective manner.
What do I need to have at home to operate the iPad?
You need to have Wi-Fi service available at your home and the provided power adapter in order to support our iPad Program. All students will be required to bring their iPads to school fully charged each day.
Does each student need an Apple ID?
Every student needs to use an Apple ID tied to an email address; this may be the hfknights Apple ID we have created for each student, or the student's existing personal Apple ID. Apple IDs are required to use iCloud in order to backup their work. The Apple ID will be used to enroll in our Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to receive assigned apps, and ensure the device is managed and functioning correctly while on campus.
How do I manage my Apple ID?
Visit AppleID.apple.com to manage your Apple ID. You may also log on to iCloud from any computer.
Will you install an app that filters age-restricted material on the iPads?
While on the Holy Family campus, content will be filtered through Holy Family’s firewall. However, when off campus, the iPad will not have restrictions. It is up to each individual family to determine your own guidelines and parameters (filters, etc.) for internet use in your home. The app Mobicip is a Safe Browser With Parental Control. It can take the place of standard internet browsers including Safari and Chrome.
Who will purchase the apps (applications) that the iPad uses and who will own them?
Holy Family School will purchase, own and maintain (download software updates, add/remove apps and programs, etc.) the necessary iPad apps for school-issued iPads as well as student-owned iPads. Parents will not need to purchase the required apps used at school. The apps will be added to student devices during the first week of school.
What control will the school have over my iPad?
iPads used at Holy Family School will be Supervised and have a Mobile Device Management profile installed. MDM software allows the school to distribute apps and settings to the iPads and lets teachers lock devices into the app the class is currently using. All devices, personally or school owned, will be supervised and enrolled into MDM. This process requires resetting the iPad at the beginning and end of the school year, which will erase all apps and data on it. To restore your data after your iPad has been supervised, sign in to your iCloud account. Anything not backed up will be lost, so make sure you've made local and iCloud backups of your device first.
Will there be any restrictions placed on the iPad?
In general, no. However, parents may choose to place restrictions on their children’s devices. The school-owned devices will be treated with the same policies on personal use as the personally-owned iPads. Students are expected to abide by the conditions of the HFS Responsible Use Policy and iPad agreements.
Can I install apps on my iPad?
Yes, but watch your usage of the iPad’s storage. If you fill your iPad's storage with games, music and movies, you'll have to delete some when you run out of room for school materials. Check the Settings app, in the General/Usage section, to see what's taking up your space on your iPad.
What type of iPad have you purchased?
We have purchased iPad 4, 32 GB, WiFi only (no data plan). While at school, the iPads can only reach the Internet by going through the Holy Family network which has an internet content filter (firewall) in place at all times. Please note: parents are responsible for monitoring students’ internet access when they are connected outside of our Holy Family network.
Could you explain the HFS Multi- Child iPad Program?
Families with more than one child enrolled in grades 5-8 may use HFS-owned iPads for the second and third child. HFS-owned iPads are equipped with protective cases, which must remain on the devices at all times. Families enrolled in the HFS Multiple-child iPad program will not be accessed the technology fee for School-Issued iPads.
What happens if my child drops/damages the school-issued iPad? What does the Insurance Plan cover?
If your child’s iPad sustains accidental damage, it will be replaced with a new iPad within ten days for $49 replacement cost by the Worth Avenue Insurance Plan. In the case that your child accidentally drops and/or damages his/her assigned iPad, Holy Family School will have a few loaner iPads available for short-term use while your child’s iPad is being repaired or replaced. The limited number of loaner devices will have all the necessary apps pre-installed.
What do I do if my child’s school-issued iPad is stolen?
Please notify the school promptly, and provide a copy of the police report for the stolen iPad. Your child will be provided a loaner iPad until the replacement iPad is received. Please see "Holy Family School Policies, Procedures and Information" or Program Details- Theft or Damage web page for more detailed information.
Do I need to purchase an iPad keyboard or case?
School-issued iPads will come with a hard shell case, as well as a Logitech wired keyboard. The case must remain on the iPad at all times.
What is my annual tech fee paying for?
Your annual technology fee covers a portion of cost of the iPad itself. The fee also covers the necessary apps, insurance, keyboard, case and other accessories, tech support, teacher and student training as well as necessary infrastructure and network upgrades.
We have purchased iPad 4, 32 GB, WiFi only (no data plan). While at school, the iPads can only reach the Internet by going through the Holy Family network which has an internet content filter (firewall) in place at all times. Please note: parents are responsible for monitoring students’ internet access when they are connected outside of our Holy Family network.
Could you explain the HFS Multi- Child iPad Program?
Families with more than one child enrolled in grades 5-8 may use HFS-owned iPads for the second and third child. HFS-owned iPads are equipped with protective cases, which must remain on the devices at all times. Families enrolled in the HFS Multiple-child iPad program will not be accessed the technology fee for School-Issued iPads.
What happens if my child drops/damages the school-issued iPad? What does the Insurance Plan cover?
If your child’s iPad sustains accidental damage, it will be replaced with a new iPad within ten days for $49 replacement cost by the Worth Avenue Insurance Plan. In the case that your child accidentally drops and/or damages his/her assigned iPad, Holy Family School will have a few loaner iPads available for short-term use while your child’s iPad is being repaired or replaced. The limited number of loaner devices will have all the necessary apps pre-installed.
What do I do if my child’s school-issued iPad is stolen?
Please notify the school promptly, and provide a copy of the police report for the stolen iPad. Your child will be provided a loaner iPad until the replacement iPad is received. Please see "Holy Family School Policies, Procedures and Information" or Program Details- Theft or Damage web page for more detailed information.
Do I need to purchase an iPad keyboard or case?
School-issued iPads will come with a hard shell case, as well as a Logitech wired keyboard. The case must remain on the iPad at all times.
What is my annual tech fee paying for?
Your annual technology fee covers a portion of cost of the iPad itself. The fee also covers the necessary apps, insurance, keyboard, case and other accessories, tech support, teacher and student training as well as necessary infrastructure and network upgrades.
What are the required specifications for Student-Owned iPads?
The requirements are: iPad Air or iPad with Retina Display, WiFi only, 32 GB minimum.
What are the required accessories for Student-Owned iPads?
All student iPads should have a heavy duty protective case, a wired or Bluetooth keyboard, a carrying bag, and earbuds or earphones with a microphone. A carrying bag with a shoulder strap is highly recommended to prevent damage when carrying books and iPads between classes. Many schools have found that this is when most damage occurs. Holy Family School has a number of used carrying bags from last year that students may use. Please ask about this during your enrollment appointment.
Can my student use another device than an iPad?
No. The only device allowed for use on school campus is the iPad which meets the hardware requirement and is registered with the school. Please see iPad Specifications.
Can I use an iPad with a cellular data plan?
No, iPads with a cellular data plan will not be allowed on school campus. WiFi only will enable the school firewall and content filtering to protect our wireless network and keep our students safe.
Contact Erin Arnold, technology teacher, with any other questions at [email protected].
The requirements are: iPad Air or iPad with Retina Display, WiFi only, 32 GB minimum.
What are the required accessories for Student-Owned iPads?
All student iPads should have a heavy duty protective case, a wired or Bluetooth keyboard, a carrying bag, and earbuds or earphones with a microphone. A carrying bag with a shoulder strap is highly recommended to prevent damage when carrying books and iPads between classes. Many schools have found that this is when most damage occurs. Holy Family School has a number of used carrying bags from last year that students may use. Please ask about this during your enrollment appointment.
Can my student use another device than an iPad?
No. The only device allowed for use on school campus is the iPad which meets the hardware requirement and is registered with the school. Please see iPad Specifications.
Can I use an iPad with a cellular data plan?
No, iPads with a cellular data plan will not be allowed on school campus. WiFi only will enable the school firewall and content filtering to protect our wireless network and keep our students safe.
Contact Erin Arnold, technology teacher, with any other questions at [email protected].