CA 1:1 Device Program

List of 23 frequently asked questions.

• Who is required to have an iPad?

  All students in Grades 2-8 are required to have an iPad. The school provides iPads in these grade levels. The Classes of 2025 and 2026 will continue to use their CA-issued iPads. The Tech Department will support these iPads through graduation. 

• Who is required to have a Mac laptop?

  The Classes of 2027 and 2028 will be required to have Mac laptops.

• What are the Mac laptop requirements for Ninth and Tenth Graders?

  Students in the Classes of 2027 and 2028 are required to bring a Mac laptop computer to school. The minimum requirements are:

  • Macbook Air 13” with M1 Chip
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Hard Drive

• Are there any advantages or disadvantages to ordering a laptop from Colorado Academy or ordering it on my own?

  Colorado Academy orders computers in bulk, so there is often a price advantage to purchasing the same computer from the school, compared to purchasing it directly from Apple. There is no physical difference between the computers except for the packaging. Colorado Academy does not install software or perform any setup on computers purchased from the school.

  
  

  In addition, computers purchased from Colorado Academy include four years of AppleCare+ for Schools coverage. This includes up to two instances of accidental damage coverage per year with no additional service fees. Additional repairs will be at cost (as quoted by Apple). In most situations, Colorado Academy can directly handle support and processing of repairs for computers purchased from the school.

  
  

  There is no ability to customize the model purchased from the school; so if you want a different model (e.g., larger hard drive, Macbook Pro, larger screen, etc.) you should purchase your own computer directly from Apple or another authorized Apple reseller.

• Can I purchase and use a different Mac laptop or one I already own?

  Yes, you can purchase any model of Mac laptop, as long as it meets the minimum requirements. 

  The minimum requirements are:

  • Macbook Air 13” with M1 Chip
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Hard Drive

• If my student is in the Class of 2027 or 2028, when can I order a laptop from Colorado Academy?

  Families may start ordering laptops from Colorado Academy immediately using this link. Laptops can be ordered through May 1, 2024.

• When will I receive my laptop?

  If you purchase from the school, laptops will be available by the New Student Orientation in August 2024. Students will receive their laptops and Colorado Academy-specific training on how to use the laptop during orientation.

• Can I purchase a laptop from CA if my student is not in Ninth Grade?

  Only students in the Classes of 2027 and 2028 can purchase a laptop from Colorado Academy.

• Can my student bring a laptop instead of an iPad?

  Students in Grades 2-8 and 11-12 are required to use the school-issued iPad. Students in Grades 11-12 may also bring a laptop if they choose.

• Can I use another device, such as Windows PC, iPad, or Chromebook, instead of a Mac?

  No, all Ninth and Tenth Grade students must bring a Mac laptop to school so that teachers can reasonably assume that all students have access to a universal set of tools and capabilities.

• What software is pre-installed on computers purchased from Colorado Academy?

  Colorado Academy does not install any additional software or provide any additional configuration on devices purchased from the school. The preinstalled software is the same as if purchased directly from Apple.

• What setup is required, and what software do I need to install?

  There is no special setup required for computers. Apple has documentation that will guide students through the initial setup process and provides tutorials for users new to Mac computers.
  
  We recommend that all students install Google Drive and Google Chrome. There will be additional details provided during New Student Orientation.

• Are there any restrictions on software that can be installed?

  Software that does not meet the requirements of the Colorado Academy Technology Acceptable Use Policy may not be used or run while on the CA campus.

• Are students required to have a case and keyboard for their iPad?

  Students in Grades 5-8 are required to provide a case with a keyboard for their iPad. Upper School students may choose whether to have a case/keyboard for their iPad.

• What iPad case do you recommend?

  The choice of a case is often a personal preference. We recommend a case and keyboard that charges and connects using the iPad’s smart connector (and not over Bluetooth) such as the Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case for iPad. We recommend that cases have adequate protection, cover the front and back of the iPad, and provide rubberized protection on the corners of the iPad, because these areas seem to be most often damaged by drops. We recommend checking reviews online (such as Amazon.com) to get information on specific cases. Please note, cases are often designed for a specific model of iPad. Make sure the case you purchase is compatible with your student’s specific iPad model.

• How often will my student use a device in class?

  The frequency of technology use depends on a number of factors, including your student’s personal preferences, specific classes, digital textbook availability for their class, and their teacher.

• What type of content filtering does the school provide?

  The Colorado Academy network provides content filtering customized to each division to help prevent access to inappropriate material and resources. Colorado Academy only provides content filtering on the school network. Responsible use and content filtering while students are off campus is the responsibility of the family. We recommend regular conversations at home about your family rules and expectations.

• What happens if I damage my laptop or if it needs warranty repair?

  If you have purchased your laptop from Colorado Academy, AppleCare+ is included with your laptop. In most cases, the school can assist with repairing or sending your computer to Apple for repair. AppleCare+ for Schools includes up to two instances of accidental damage coverage per year with no additional service fees. Additional repairs will be at cost (as quoted by Apple). You may also choose to take your computer directly to the Apple store.
  
  Please note: if you do not purchase your laptop from CA, you are responsible for coordinating repairs with your authorized vendor (such as the Apple store). Colorado Academy strongly recommends purchasing AppleCare+ coverage to insure against accidental damage and component failures.

• Can I take my device to the Apple store for repairs or help?

  Even if you have purchased your laptop from Colorado Academy, you can take your computer to the Apple store for repair.
  
  If you purchase your own laptop and have a valid AppleCare+ support contract, you may also take your computer to the Apple store.

• Are there loaner devices available while my computer is being repaired?

  Loaner devices are available on a time-limited basis to allow for computer repairs. Loaner devices may only provide access to the Internet, Google Workspace, and email. These devices may not have the same functionality as a Mac laptop.

• Will there be an orientation for Ninth Grade students?

  An orientation will be provided for students at the beginning of the school year to cover topics such as connecting to CA wireless, setting up Google Calendar with course schedules, and logging into the CA website. General computer usage will not be covered. Ninth Grade Dean Dr. Camille James will contact incoming Ninth Graders and their families with details regarding the New Student Orientation.

• Is financial aid available?

  Yes. 

  **Financial assistance may be available for families receiving tuition assistance. Please contact the Financial Aid Office at lisa.dean@coloradoacademy.org for additional information.

•  Other questions?

  Please contact the CA Technology Department at help@coloradoacademy.org.