How do we prevent students from downloading pornography, inappropriate content, etc.?
See the safety page.

How can I supervise my children’s computer use when I don’t know much about computers?
You do not need to know anything about computers to be able to evaluate the words and images on your child’s computer screen. We believe that parents should spend time with their children. Additionally, parents can choose to learn enough about computers and the Internet to be able to work with their children on computer-related activities.

I have an existing laptop. Can I use that?
It depends. Please call the Technology department to discuss your specific make and model.

How many hours a day will my child be using a laptop?
This varies depending on faculty and subjects under study, and will change as students grow more accustomed to the laptops.

What about the weight of these laptops? We already have concerns about our children carrying over-heavy book bags.
The laptop is comparable in weight to a typical large textbook. Furthermore as the adoption of digital documents and reference materials grows we expect that the volume of printed material should decrease.

What effect does the laptop plan have on the amount of individualized coaching my child receives?
Each student will receive an increase in the amount of individual attention received. In-class instruction stays the same relative to individual attention. Laptop-using students have the additional opportunity to collaborate with faculty and other students via email and group discussions outside of the classroom.

What provisions are made for lost or broken laptops?
See the support page.

Will students get productive use of this laptop through eighth grade?
Any computer built today will be nearly obsolete in three years, not necessarily because of hardware breakdown, but because of the rapid pace of software development. Laptops purchased today will run today’s software just as well three yearsfrom now. The real question is whether or not today’s software will be considered adequate for our children’s use in three years. The short useful life of hardware and software is an unavoidable cost of doing business where computers are concerned, not just for our children in school, but also for all users in all settings.

Do I have to buy a home printer?
Home printers are recommended. They are generally inexpensive and are a valuable time-saver for most students. Printing is available at school for all students.

What about Internet connection at home?
An Internet connection at home is recommended as it provides access to School technology services (web site, email, and homework).

Who is eligible for financial assistance from the School for the laptop program?
Parents seeking tuition assistance should contact the Head of School.

What kind of research has been done on whether this is the best laptop to get?
The Technology Department does a through review of appropriate laptops. Each year’s model is selected on its ability to best meet the needs of our students at a competitive price.