Back in 2013, the LA school district thought it would be a good idea to start distributing iPads to its students and teachers, but unfortunately the restrictions placed around it were circumvented by students, ultimately leading the school district to halt the program and repossess the iPads that were handed out to students. However it seems that this little hiccup was not enough to deter the school district as they have renewed their iPad efforts and have announced that they plan on expanding the program to an additional 38 campuses before state testing this coming spring. According to the LA Times, the new proposal and distribution could cost tax payers and the school district around $115 million, and while the district could buy as many iPads as they want, they plan on keeping it below 67,500 units.
The tablets will be given to students, teachers, and administrative staff. Each iPad is said to cost around $768 and will include apps and tech support, although officials are attempting to lower the costs by $200-$300 of possible. For the sake of education, Apple too has decided to loosen the terms of the contract which basically forced the district to purchase older iPad models. However with the loosening of the contract, Apple will now provide them with the latest hardware. While there definitely have been hiccups in the program, it is without doubt that technology is becoming more prevalent in our education system these days and it seems that this is a good way to start. What do you guys think?