Andover Public Schools: Technology Update For The 2021-22 School Year

Press release from Andover Public Schools:

August 12, 2021

Dear Andover Public School Families: 

As we approach the start of the new school year for our students, I wanted to share updates to the guidelines for how students engage learning through devices like iPad and Chromebook. Since March 2020 we have collectively participated in an unprecedented transition, from the traditional in-school model to a variety of remote and hybrid experiences, all powered by emerging technology.  The coming school year continues to utilize technology at the forefront of your student’s learning experience.  Our team is working to ensure that every Andover Public School (APS) student has access to all their on-line educational content while in school and, as appropriate, during their time at home.  The 2021-22 technology plan is a joint effort by the Andover Education team, our Digital Learning team and Information Technology with review and oversight from the Superintendent and School Committee.  This communication is an overview for families at all grade levels.   This information can also be found on our website, https://aps1.net/2320/Your-Students-Devices.

During the pandemic, most elementary school students were loaned a town-owned device to assist them in their remote learning.  If your student still has a device, it must be returned to Andover IT as soon as possible.  We are trying to clean and reset all devices for re-distribution over the coming weeks.  All of these devices have been disabled and are no longer usable. Please send an email to etech@andoverma.us to arrange a drop-off time.   

As in prior years, all middle school students are expected to bring a personal computing device to school each day. The only approved device at the middle school level is a Chromebook. Windows, MacOS (Apple) or iOS devices are not approved devices. 

Two years ago, the middle school faculty requested and were approved by the School Committee to only support Chrome style devices. This was driven by a need to ensure a homogeneous and safe experience for all students.  Chrome devices require minimal technical assistance and can be managed to limit distractions and maintain safety.  

To create this safer and more uniform homogeneous experience for students and staff, all personally owned student devices must be “managed” by the IT department during school hours. 

As in prior years, all high school students are expected to bring a personal computing device to school each day.  Students may bring a Windows, MacOS or Chromebook device to school to access crucial educational applications and content. 

APS offers a scholarship program for students with demonstrated need.  If your circumstances dictate, you may request a scholarship device from your school principal or teacher. 

We understand that this represents a large amount of information, and we wanted to provide you the most up to date information to help our families plan for the new school year.  If you have additional questions, please send an email to etech@andoverma.us  and we will respond as quickly as possible. 

Sincerely, 

Paul Puzzanghera

Chief Information Officer 

This press release was produced by Andover Public Schools. The views expressed here are the author’s own.