Our Technology Philosophy
We are excited to continue enhancing personalized learning through our 1:1 Device Initiative, which has been a cornerstone of the student experience since the 2017–2018 school year.
Through ongoing research, visits to peer districts, and a careful assessment of student needs at NHS, our faculty and administration have determined that the goals of our initiative are best met with a device that supports the complex multitasking and content creation required at the high school level.
School-Provided Device
For students who do not provide their own device, the district provides a Chromebook, as it offers immediate access to the web-based tools and applications. We prioritize sturdy, reliable hardware designed to last throughout a student's high school career.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Guidelines
While a laptop (Macbook, PC) or Chromebook is the most seamless fit for our curriculum, iPads outfitted with a full physical keyboard case are permitted provided the student can manage the technical demands of their courses. If at any point the student is unable to manage the technical demands of the course because of limitations presented by the iPad, they are encouraged to switch to a more suitable personal device or a Chromebook provided by the school.
Minimum Requirements for Personal Devices:
• Battery Life: 7+ hours of active use.
• Display: Screen size of at least 9 inches.
• Input: Full physical keyboard (required for all devices, including iPads).
• Web Browser: Access to an up-to-date Chrome desktop-class web browser.
• Audio/Video: Integrated microphone and camera.
• Connectivity: Wireless capability and at least one USB port (or appropriate adapter).
• Durability: Sturdy case and construction suitable for daily transport.
• Proficiency: Student knowledge and proficiency in navigating the device's file system and settings.
iPad Use at NHS
While we continue to recommend a laptop or Chromebook for the high school learning experience, we recognize that the iPad—when paired with a physical keyboard—is becoming a more common choice for students and families.
We value the digital fluency students developed in the K–8 iPad environment throughout their elementary and middle school years in Needham Public Schools. If students choose to use an iPad as their personal device at Needham High School, they must be prepared to leverage and expand upon their existing skills to independently navigate:
• Advanced Multitasking: Efficiently switching between research tabs, document editors, and learning management systems.
• File Management: Converting, downloading, and organizing various file formats to meet specific curriculum requirements.
• Web Compatibility: Navigating sites that may require a desktop-class browser experience.
• Flexibility with Device Use: Knowing how to access a day-loaner Chromebook from the Library for classroom assignments and assessments that require the use of desktop-class Chrome browser, extensions, etc.