The Midland Independent School District (MISD) said in an Aug. 23 announcement that beginning this academic year, students who are issued digital learning devices are allowed to keep them free of charge instead of having to return them. As a 1:1 technology district, MISD is required to give students access to a device, but previously, students could borrow learning devices from the school during the school day.
“As learning increasingly happens in a digital environment, curricula have moved to devices such as iPads and Chromebooks,” said Fatima Muñiz, MISD Executive Director of Technology. “Because of this, it’s critical that students have access to a device without the hassle of checking one in and out. It’s theirs to take home and will follow them for many years as they advance grade levels.”
“Getting students familiar with basic computer tasks such as typing, dragging and dropping will go a long way in making sure they’re ready to take these important tests,” Muñiz said in the news release. “Practically all careers involve some type of digital technology, and getting students trained in tech is a critical component of preparing them for college or career.”
The release said that the district will distribute iPads to kindergarteners and first graders, while students in second grade and up will be given Chromebooks. All devices contain a program through which MISD will keep tabs on student activity and online safety.
While malfunctions and accidents are bound to happen, Muñiz stresses that students need to take care of their devices.
“Students have to be mindful that their device is indeed theirs, and they have to take care of it,” Muñiz said in the release. “It’s a great lesson in responsibility.”