Find answers to common questions about school-issued iPads, including getting started, using the device, technical support, and device responsibilities.
PWCS provides each student with a school-issued device to ensure equitable access to high-quality instructional experiences and resources. A consistent, PWCS-managed device gives students reliable access to curriculum, assessments, accessibility supports, instructional applications, and opportunities to research, create, communicate, collaborate, and solve problems.
No. School-issued iPads are one of many instructional tools that teachers use to support learning. iPads do not replace teachers, books, paper, or hands-on learning. Teachers determine when technology adds educational value and when non-digital instructional methods are more effective.
Students continue to participate in classroom discussions, receive direct instruction from their teachers, read printed materials, write by hand, complete hands-on activities, collaborate with classmates, and use other traditional learning resources. iPads and other technology are used purposefully to enhance learning when they help students engage more deeply with content, collaborate, create, or receive meaningful feedback.
No. PWCS provides students in grades K-12 with school-issued iPads to provide access to curriculum, learning resources, accessibility tools, and opportunities to create, communicate, and collaborate.
Because digital resources and assessments are integrated into instruction, PWCS does not provide an opt out from receiving a school-issued iPad.
During the school day, students should use their school-issued iPad to ensure access to required instructional resources, assessments, accessibility features, approved applications, and technical support. Personal devices may be used at home; however, some PWCS instructional resources and assessments may be configured specifically for school-issued devices. Please note that personal devices cannot connect to PWCS' Wi-Fi network.
School staff assist students with setting up their school-issued iPad. Some device settings are standardized for all devices and cannot be modified by students or families. As a result, features like the App Store are not available to students.
Students should contact their school with common device issues and coordinate additional technical support when needed. If additional assistance is needed, contact the PWCS Customer Contact Center.
School-issued iPads come with a protective case (including a keyboard for grades 2–12), a charger, and a cable.
Families who choose to purchase accessories should ensure they are compatible with the student's assigned iPad model. Not all Bluetooth accessories will work with PWCS device management settings.
Learn more about using accessories with school-issued iPads.
Students are expected to use school-issued devices safely, responsibly, and ethically. Students and parents/guardians should follow the expectations outlined in the Parent/Student Device Handbook, the Code of Behavior, applicable PWCS School Board policies and regulations—including but not limited to Regulation 291, "Computer Systems and Network Services - PWCS Responsible Use and Internet Safety Policy"—and any additional expectations established by the student's classroom teacher or school.
The iPad Learning Resources webpage includes information about built-in Apple apps, iPad features, and tools that help students create, communicate, stay organized, and demonstrate their learning.
School-issued iPads include built-in accessibility features that support a variety of learning needs, including vision, hearing, mobility, reading, writing, communication, and attention.
For assistance with student-specific accessibility needs or assistive technology support, families should contact their student's case manager.
Explore commonly used accessibility features available on school-issued iPads.
PWCS uses a combination of device management, internet filtering, classroom management tools, and privacy practices to help provide students with a safe and secure digital learning environment.
PWCS centrally manages school-issued iPads to provide approved applications, maintain security settings, support student assessments, and help ensure devices are ready for instruction.
Internet filtering remains active on school-issued iPads whether they are used at school or connected to a home or other networks. Some websites and services, including YouTube, are restricted on student devices. Teachers provide instructional videos and online content through approved PWCS resources and platforms.
Teachers use classroom management tools to support learning, provide assistance, and maintain an appropriate classroom environment.
PWCS reviews and manages approved instructional technology resources in accordance with applicable student privacy requirements and PWCS policies and procedures.
Families play an important role in helping students become responsible digital citizens. Parents and guardians can support their student by:
Students experiencing a technical problem with their school-issued iPad should report the issue to their school. School staff can assist with common device issues and coordinate additional technical support when needed.
Report the damage, loss, or theft to the student's school as soon as possible. Do not attempt to repair a damaged iPad. School staff will determine the appropriate repair or replacement process, coordinate any necessary follow-up, and provide additional information as needed.
Students are expected to care for their assigned school-issued iPad and return it when requested. Families may be responsible for the cost to replace a school-issued iPad (within 30 days) if the device is not returned, is intentionally damaged, is lost or damaged due to negligence, or is stolen.
Students who withdraw from PWCS must return all school-issued iPads and any assigned accessories to their school. Devices should also be returned when otherwise directed by PWCS.
Failure to return a school-issued device or accessories may result in replacement costs in accordance with the Parent/Student Device Handbook and applicable PWCS policies.