Marist has announced a new iPad policy effective next year that requires incoming freshmen to purchase the device through the school.  The goal is to improve student concentration on school work.

“I think upon arriving at Marist as the principal, I noticed instantly that because our parents and families, guardians purchase the iPad for our students, that is owned by the family… they’re able to kind of do whatever they want,” said Principal Meg Dunneback.

Marist is fine-tuning the use of iPads as a learning tool by filtering the right apps and settings. 

“Each device will be managed through a Mobile Device Management (MDM) System, which allows the school to monitor and manage apps, settings, and restrictions,” said Dunneback.

The iPads will also allow students to have the utmost safety and security within the school. 

“The only way to make sure this happens is to purchase all devices through Marist,” said Dunneback.

The iPads will come with apps pre-downloaded as well as a keyboard, charger, apple pencil, and a four year warranty.

The new policy is the administration’s way of ensuring students use their time at Marist for school rather than being distracted by technology. 

“Whether it be the device we use for learning, or coupled with the device we use to entertain ourselves, it’s all in one. So [right now] kids have the ability to go on Netflix, go on ESPN, go on any game that they have set up on their iPad,” said Dunneback. “Our goal is simple: to ensure that technology supports learning, not distraction,” said Dunneback.

Parent and Student Reaction

Some parents can understand the importance of buying their child’s iPad through Marist, however there are still some concerns.

“It’s beneficial for students to focus more, to make sure that they’re actually paying attention to their classes and studies,” said Karissa Zenere, parent of an incoming freshman, but she sees a downside. “I don’t like how I can’t get a hold of [my children].”

Her son, Nathan Solis, is against it.

“I don’t like it, because I can’t have my own stuff on it,” said Solis.

He argues that this new system is unfair because current classes are still allowed to use their personal iPads and he believes that with his own device, he would become more responsible.

However, he recognizes the reason for the change.

“I won’t be tempted to be doing stuff I shouldn’t do in class,” said Solis.