KML is a 1:1 BYOT school. 1:1 (pronounced one to one) means that there is one computer for each student. BYOT stands for Bring Your Own Technology, which means that students will purchase and bring their own devices rather than having them provided by the school. In KML’s 1:1 BYOT program, every student brings a Chromebook that they own to school everyday and then they are able to take it home to use as well.
KML’s 1:1 BYOT program is built around Google’s G-Suite (formerly called Google Apps) suite of applications, which is a collection of applications used for word-processing, spreadsheets, email, calendar, file storage, etc.
Required Device
The student’s 1:1 device must be a Chromebook.
Which Chromebook Should I Choose?
If you are not sure which Chromebook to choose, here are a couple of tips to help you make your decision:
- Chromebook screen size varies from 11″ to 15″. The 11″ – 13″ sizes are recommended.
- Some Chromebooks feature touch-sensitive screens. This feature is strongly recommended.
- Chromebooks feature either 4GB or 8GB of RAM memory. 8GB is recommended.
- If you are buying your own Chromebook or bringing one from elementary school, please review Google’s Auto Update policy ( support.google.com/chrome/a/answer/6220366), which effectively limits the usable life of a Chromebook. We recommend purchasing a model that is newly released in the summer before freshman year starts.
- If you have specific questions about a device, you can contact KML’s Assistant Director of Technology, Zach Cvikel (262-677-4051 x4102; zach.cvikel@kmlhs.org).
Internet Filtering
Students at KML browse the internet through a multi-tiered filtering system which helps to protect them from inappropriate content and protects the KML network from malicious software. One of the tools that we use is called OpenDNS. This service is also available free for home use. Implementing OpenDNS on a home network usually takes only a few minutes and will protect all of the devices in your house that use your internet connection including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, iPods, and video game systems. To start using OpenDNS, go to opendns.com/home-internet-security.
BYOT FAQ
KML’s technology program is built around the use of Google’s G-Suite (formerly Google Apps) products and services. Chromebooks are the easiest way to access those services. Chromebooks also require much less maintenance than Mac or Windows computers and if something goes wrong, a Chromebook can be reset to its original state with no loss of data in only a few minutes, so troubleshooting and lost class time are kept to a minimum. Chromebook battery life is excellent and the price of Chromebooks makes them very affordable. They are also generally cheaper to fix or replace. Chromebooks also come with tools that allow KML to better manage a 1:1 program and offer a variety of controlled testing environments.
Devices will be available that can be loaned to students to use. A fee may be charged.
Devices will be available that can be loaned to students to use. Teachers will allow students to retrieve one of these devices.
All students are expected to arrive at school with a fully charged device. Students are able to charge their devices in most of the classrooms that they use during the day.
Teachers will let students know when devices are needed for a class. When they are not needed, they should be locked in the students’ lockers.
All students will be required to register their devices with the school. Brand, model, and serial number information may be collected for the purpose of security.
Devices either have a battery that easily detaches from the device or they may have an internal battery. Replacement batteries are available for all devices, even those with an internal battery.
Reliability is not simply a matter of brand name. You are encouraged to read reviews of the models you are considering. KML does not endorse any particular brand.
Yes. KML will provide a group-buying opportunity in the summer before the start of each school year.
- Earbuds – every student will need a set of earbuds or headphones
- Protective Case – Students should use protective cases to keep their BYOT devices safe from damage while being transported or stored. Close fitting padded device sleeves or close fitting plastic, rubber, or metal cases are recommended. A computer bag may also be used instead of a sleeve or hard case as long as its largest storage area is designed and used for protection of the device. Device bags are an exception to the KML backpack policy and may be large enough to carry the device and its accessories (AC adapter, earbuds, mouse, etc), but should not be sized to also carry books.
- Power Supply – Students should bring their power supply to school so that they can charge their device if needed.
- Insurance – KML will not be responsible for damage to student laptops. It is recommended that you consult your insurance agent to see if the device is covered under your current policy. If it is not, you may wish to consider purchasing additional insurance as part of your homeowner’s or renter’s policy or as a separate policy through another source.