MCPS Middle School Initiates Bring Your Own Device Policy #byod

Dear XXXXX Parents, ...In addition, I would like to say a word about the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) permission slip I sent home this week-end in terms of its context. Based on teachers' experiences with computer lab access at XXXXX [MCPS MIDDLE SCHOOL] last year, I anticipate the need to make alternate arrangements for technology use over the coming year. Last semester, out of 90 instructional days, teachers had access to computer labs in the school for approximately 14 days. This was due to MAP-R and MAP-M as well as other computerized testing that occured for all three grade levels several times throughout the semester. This year, as we replace the Maryland State Assessment (a paper test) with the PARCC assessments (also computer-based), I anticipate that computer access for instructional purposes may be even further restricted. While we do have a mobile lab at the school, it is old and not always reliable. Therefore, I am asking that students bring their own laptops, etc... to XXXXX class on an as-needed basis which will be announced in advance. The alternative to this is that the students can use the old-fashioned method of writing drafts long-hand and then typing them up at home later, but it seems more efficient to allow students to work on their own equipment if they are able to... Sincerely,  XXXXX MCPS teacherXXXXX Middle School