Thriving Together
Academics
Academics
Upper School | Gr. 9-12

Upper School Technology

BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE (BYOD)

Laguna Blanca provides a technologically rich learning environment where teaching and learning are enhanced by using appropriate technology as part of the curriculum. We also teach our students how to be responsible digital citizens. The Technology Department uses the latest in content filtering tools for student Internet use and expects all students to observe the guidelines established in the Responsible Use Policy.

The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program requires students in grades nine through twelve to bring their own device to school every day to use in their classes. Below are frequently asked questions about the program. If you need additional information, please email technology@lagunablanca.org.

Frequently Asked Questions by Parents

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

  • What is the purpose of the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program at LBS?

    The primary goals of the BYOD are:
    • to provide students with direct and continuous access to learning resources and experiences throughout the school day.
    • to have students use their devices regularly and with purpose during teacher directed activities.
    • to have personal digital devices, such as laptops or tablets, ultimately become cognitive tools that are holistically integrated into the teaching and learning processes of the school.
    • to improve students' technology skills and better prepare them for a technology filled future.
    • for everyone involved to recognize that in this digital age, teaching practices are continually evolving, and that LBS teachers will continue to seek out and model best practices that infuse technology appropriately into the learning process.

  • How much does this program cost?

    Required Hardware:
    Laptop or Tablet $300-1,500
    Protective Carrying Case (Hard shell case recommended) $20-50

  • Will parents be required to purchase a new device for the BYOD Program?

    Only if they currently do not own one that meets the minimum requirements below. Families that need assistance with acquiring a suitable device can email technology@lagunablanca.org.

  • What are the minimum requirements for the device?

    Device minimum requirements:
    • A long-lasting battery (3+ hours)
    • Should power on in less than 60 seconds
    • A full sized-screen (minimum 11")
    • A hardshell case to protect the device
    • Headphones
    • A physical keyboard for extended writing assignments
    • A functioning video camera
    • A processor that can support video conference & multitasking (i5 or higher)
    It is strongly recommended that the device not be older than three years of age and that it is covered by an extended warranty with accidental coverage.

  • Do you recommend a specific brand or model?

    There is no official requirement for a model or a brand. Laptops (Apple, Acer, Dell, etc.) or Tablets (iPad Pro, Microsoft Surface) as long as they meet the requirements stated above.

    A phone does not meet the requirements for the Bring Your Own Device Program.

  • What about Internet filtering at school?

    All computers used at school are subject to our filtering system, whether on the WIFI or standard network. It's important to keep in mind that no filtering system is perfect, so students are expected to observe the guidelines set forth in the school's Responsible Use Policy while using any digital device at school. The policy in included in the student/parent handbook.

  • Are there any forms or documents parents need to sign?

    The Responsible Use Policy in included within the student/parent information handbook. Before any student can connect to the school network a signed copy of the student/parent handbook form must be completed. A section of the RUP releases the school from any liability should a laptop be damaged, lost, or stolen while at school. This includes data loss.

  • How will I be notified of any changes or announcements about the Program?

    You will receive email messages with important information and updates about the BYOD Program. Therefore, it is important that the school have current email addresses for parents. Please contact Chris Davis in the main office to update email addresses. We will also post updates to this webpage as needed.

    Please contact the tech department at technology@lagunablanca.org with any questions that are not addressed on this webpage.

Frequently Asked Questions by Students

List of 12 frequently asked questions.

  • What is the Bring Your Own Device Program?

    Students in grades nine through twelve are required to bring their own device to school every day to use in their classes. Students connect to the Internet over our WIFI network. They also connect to various websites depending on what reachers have planned for their classes.

  • What software do I need to have on my device?

    For Internet browsing, please download and install Firefox or Chrome.

    Some teachers may have you create some shortcuts or download certain “open source” software programs, which are free for everyone.

    The school uses Zoom for video conferencing and we recommend that students download Zoom on their device.

    Please make sure you have anti-virus on your device as well.

  • What kind of device do I need?

    Students are to bring a fully charged tablet or device with a battery life of at least four hours.

  • When should I start bringing my device to school?

    Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors will bring their device beginning the first day of school.

  • I am a new student. How do I get my account started?

    Parents of new students will receive information via email on how their child can activate their school account.

  • What if my device won't work properly at school?

    The Technology Department staff will do their best to get your device going on the WIFI network. If we cannot resolve the program because of low disk space, lack of current OS updates, viruses, or faulty or obsolete hardware, your parents may need to help with providing repairs or upgrades.

  • What if I lose or break my device?

    We will be able to provide a loaner for a few days while repairs or replacement of the student's device can occur. Loaner computers cannot go home, so make sure to save your files online to Swoop Drive.

  • Where will I keep my device files?

    You will not have access to school file servers unless you are using a school-owned computer. So, when using your device, you should save your files to class folders on your device using the Google Drive app.

  • Can I charge my device while at school?

    Yes. It is recommended that you come to school with a fully charged device each day. But if needed, teachers can provide extension cords for you to use during class.

  • What if I forget to bring my device to school?

    You may check out a school loaner from the technology office for use while you are at school. Some teachers may have consequences for students who repeatedly forget to bring their device to school. So, do your best to bring it!

  • Can I let my friends use my device?

    Loaning your device to anyone else is strongly discouraged. The only exception may be leaving it with the Technology Department staff for troubleshooting problems for you.

  • Where do I keep my device when I'm not using it?

    When not in use, keep your device in your backpack or in your locker in its protective case. NEVER leave it unattended. Any device left laying out outside or left in a classroom unattended will be taken to the Upper School office where you will need to go to retrieve it. If you repeatedly leave it out and unattended, the school will call your parents to come pick it up for you.
COMMON SENSE MEDIA
With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility

In our modern world, kids of all ages use digital media to explore, connect, create, and learn online, both at home and at school. Because of this, young people today have extraordinary opportunities, yet they face potential pitfalls, too.

Meanwhile, schools often deal with the associated ramifications -- cyber-bullying, digital cheating, and safety and security concerns. These issues underscore the need for digital literacy and citizenship skills instruction.

To help our students safely navigate and manage their digital lives, Laguna has adopted the Common Sense Digital Citizenship EK-12 curriculum. For more information regarding Common Sense and its wealth of parent resources, visit Common Sense Media.

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Laguna Blanca is Santa Barbara’s premier private, co-educational, college preparatory day school for students in Early Kindergarten through Grade 12.
LAGUNA BLANCA SCHOOL  |   4125 PALOMA DRIVE   SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA  93110  |   805.687.2461