Managed Device Program
Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, Providence School will begin the gradual transition to a school-managed device program for the Class of 2033 and beyond. Effective June 1, 2026, all sixth-grade students MUST enroll in the Managed Student Device Program and will be assessed a technology fee. Through this program, Providence will provide a standardized premium Surface device to students for use while enrolled at the school, creating a safe, secure, and consistent learning environment. The technology fee includes the device, warranty coverage, and all required software for academic use. Families will be notified when their student’s device is available for pickup. Additional grade levels will be incorporated as the program expands in future years. To enroll in the managed device program or get more information, email technology-fees@provschool.zendesk.com. This program is only available for currently enrolled students.
BYOD Device Program
The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program is being gradually phased out and replaced by the Managed Student Device Program beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. The BYOD Program will remain in place for students in the Class of 2027-2032. Families in additional grade levels will be notified as they transition to the Managed Student Device Program in future years.
We strongly believe that using technology to engage students in the learning process is a valuable way to prepare our students for their future career endeavors. With Office 365, Canvas Learning Management System, and the integration of new teaching techniques, your child will be better prepared for college and beyond.
About the BYOD Program
Providence strongly recommends the Surface device for our students in grades 7-12.
The learning environment regarding technology works better when every device works the same way. Based on feedback from our staff we are asking parents to honor our request providing a device that meets our specifications. Depending on your student’s schedule, there are classes that Apple Laptops don’t perform well in due to software compatibility limitations.
There are many manufacturers who build Windows-based tablets (Dell, Lenovo, HP, Asus, Acer, etc.). If you’d like to find something other than the Surface line, any tablets that meet or exceed the following specifications will work:
- 8-10 hour battery life
- 10″ or larger touch screen
- At least 128GB of storage and 16GB RAM strongly encouraged
- Instant on; SSD boot drive
- Windows 11
- Keyboard capability (e.g. USB connected keyboard or Bluetooth)
Also Recommended:
- A stylus/pen
- A protective case or sleeve
- An accidental damage protection (ADP) plan that provides for full replacement should your device become non-functional.
An iPad, Android tablet, or Chromebook is not sufficient for the needs of our students. Many digital textbooks and educational resources cannot be installed or displayed on these devices and will not be allowed as the student’s primary device.
Providence primarily supports the Windows OS, however, students have used Mac devices without issue in the past. Please be aware that if a class requires software that is incompatible with their Mac, they will be responsible for finding a replacement or alternative solution.
Cracked screens and screen pressure damage are common problems that can be avoided with proper equipment and care.
- Consider investing in a rugged tablet case and/or a tablet sleeve case. While not infallible, they can help protect against impact damage and screen damage in the event your device is dropped.
- Avoid placing devices in areas where they might be easily knocked over or stepped on. While you may know where your device is, the people around you may not be paying attention, which has resulted in several accidents in the past.
- Avoid placing devices between books or in backpacks without proper screen protection. Applying too much pressure to your device’s screen may damage it, and can make a touch screen unusable.
- We highly recommend purchasing an extended warranty along with your device. You can do everything right and still end up with a damaged device, screen or otherwise. Surface tablets come with a one year limited warranty, which does not cover accidental damage. Having a warranty that does can save you from unexpected bills and stress in the future.
Any device that connects to the internet has the potential to be exposed to malware. Even safe browsing practices may not protect you from compromised websites. Having anti-virus software on your device can protect from malware that is less obvious.
We highly recommend using an anti-virus program, even if it is only a free version. Providence offers a discounted purchase of Norton Anti-Virus for students.
An Acceptable Use Policy must be read and signed by all students and their parents in order for network and internet access to be granted. We consistently provide a safe, efficient, ethical, and legal utilization of the network, resources, and internet in the school.
Screen Damage – Cracked screens and screen pressure damage are common problems that can be avoided with proper equipment and care.
- Consider investing in a rugged tablet case and/or a tablet sleeve case. While not infallible, they can help protect against impact damage and screen damage in the event your device is dropped.
- Avoid placing devices in areas where they might be easily knocked over or stepped on. While you may know where your device is, the people around you may not be paying attention, which has resulted in several accidents in the past.
- Avoid placing devices between books or in backpacks without proper screen protection. Applying too much pressure to your device’s screen may damage it, and can make a touch screen unusable.
- We highly recommend purchasing an extended warranty along with your device. You can do everything right and still end up with a damaged device, screen or otherwise. Surface tablets come with a one year limited warranty, which does not cover accidental damage. Having a warranty that does can save you from unexpected bills and stress in the future.
Viruses – Any device that connects to the internet has the potential to be exposed to malware. Even safe browsing practices may not protect you from compromised websites. Having anti-virus software on your device can protect from malware that is less obvious. We highly recommend using an anti-virus program, even if it is only a free version. Providence offers a discounted purchase of Norton Anti-Virus for students.
