Technology

We want to improve the way you learn in the Upper Merion Area School District! Our "One-to-One" program gives every student a device to use in class and at home in Middle and High School. We believe that classrooms filled with technology, led by well-trained teachers, will make learning more engaging and effective.

Our goals:

Challenge you more: We want to raise the bar in your classes to prepare you better for college or whatever comes next.
Make learning fun: By using technology in creative ways, we want to make schoolwork more interesting and interactive.
Support different learning styles: Technology allows teachers to tailor lessons to your individual needs.
Equal access for all: Everyone gets a device, so financial background doesn't limit your learning opportunities.

Guidelines

MacBook Air laptops for HS students and iPads for K-8 students, chargers, and cases are all loaned to you by the Upper Merion Area School District. The student is responsible for taking good care of them.

If the laptop is broken and the damage isn't covered by insurance, you (or your parents) will be responsible for repairs.

Following the Rules:

The MacBooks and iPads are for schoolwork. You must follow the district's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), School Board Policy 815, whether you're using it at school or home. You can find the AUP on the district website https://www.umasd.org/AUP. As well as School Board Policy 224 Care of School Property.
Misusing the device, charger, case, internet access, or any software could result in losing your privileges.
Remember, there's no expectation of privacy when using our devices. Teachers, tech support, and administrators can check your internet history, logs, and other usage records.

Using the Web Wisely:

Visiting inappropriate websites or using email for bad purposes will result in losing your privileges. If you accidentally stumble upon something inappropriate, close the site immediately, note the date and time, and tell a teacher or tech staff member.

Software: Only Approved Programs Allowed

You are unable to install or run any software that hasn't been approved by the school first.
You may not connect your school-issued device to a personal Apple account.

School Email and Storage:

Everyone gets a district issued email account (UMASD Gmail) and a cloud storage space (Upper Merion Google Drive). These accounts have filters to block inappropriate content and should only be used for schoolwork. They are not private and can be reviewed by school staff and even technical support from outside vendors. Any non-school emails sent through UMASD Gmail may be deleted.

IMPORTANT: Please note that students are not permitted to use personal laptops and tablets during the school day.

Insurance Information

Participation in the One-to-One program at the Middle School and High School requires an annual insurance premium of $30.00, payable at the beginning of the school year. If a student device is damaged during the year, students will be responsible for a deductible for each insurance claim submitted as follows:

1st insurance claim: $30 deductible

2nd insurance claim: $60 deducible

3rd insurance claim: $100 deductible

Students will not be covered by insurance beyond the third insurance claim. Intentional damage, as determined by district staff, will not be covered. All payments will be collected through the Main Office of the Middle or High School.

Students who qualify for free and reduced lunch will be exempt from insurance premium payments but not deductibles. Any other student or parent who would like to participate in the program but feels they are financially unable to do so should contact the building principal to discuss their options.

Coverages:

Direct Damage: Pays for accidental damage to the device on school property.
Off Premise Coverage: Pays for accidental damage to the device while it is in transit or off premises at another location. (Home)
Theft: Pays for loss or damage to the device due to theft. The claim must be accompanied by an official copy of the police report.
Fire: Pays for loss or damage to the device due to fire. The claim must be accompanied by an official fire report from the investigating authority.
Electrical Surge: Pays for damage to the device due to an electrical surge.
Natural Disasters: Will pay loss caused by natural disasters.

Exclusions:

Dishonest, Fraudulent, Intentional, Neglect, or Criminal Acts: Will not pay if damage or loss occurs in conjunction with a dishonest, fraudulent, intentional, neglect, or criminal act.
Loss: Students who lose their HS laptop will be responsible for a $500 deductible; students who lose their MS iPad will be responsible for the full cost of the iPad and case, $400.

https://umasd.revtrak.net/technology/technology-insurance/

Please click the icon above to use our electronic payment system to pay the insurance fee. You will set up an account that can be used each year. There is a 4.5% convenience fee. CASH OR CHECKS ARE STILL ACCEPTED FOR PAYMENT; MAKE THEM OUT TO UMASD (UPPER MERION AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT).

There is no insurance acquisition fee required for students whose family qualifies for the federal free or reduced lunch program; mark the signature sheet appropriately.

Click the icons below for more information.