K-12 Tech Decisions

Covering technology, cybersecurity, and policy decisions for K-12 school districts. Practical guidance for district IT leaders navigating the evolving EdTech landscape.

Latest Articles

Classroom Technology

7 Tips for Using Interactive Displays in the Classroom

Best practices for getting the most out of interactive whiteboards and display technology in your schools.

May 5, 2015
EdTech

A Guide to Distance Learning for K-12

How districts are building distance learning programs with video conferencing, LMS platforms, and digital content.

October 20, 2014
Safety & Security

5 Types of Emergency Communication Tools to Keep Your School Safe

From mass notification systems to mobile alerts, the tools districts need for emergency preparedness.

September 3, 2014
Mobile Learning

The Mobile Learning Debate: BYOD vs. District-Provided Devices

Weighing the pros and cons of bring-your-own-device programs against district-issued 1:1 initiatives.

February 12, 2014
Case Study

Inside One District's Decision to Go BYOD

A district shares its BYOD implementation journey, from planning through rollout and lessons learned.

December 10, 2013
Policy & Compliance

Creating an Acceptable Use Policy for Mobile Learning

Essential guidance for drafting AUP policies that address BYOD, CIPA compliance, and student safety.

September 15, 2013
EdTech

The Classrooms of Tomorrow Are in Your Browser

How browser-based learning platforms and Chromebooks are reshaping the K-12 technology landscape.

November 8, 2013
EdTech

Games for Education: How and Where to Find Them

A guide to game-based learning resources and platforms that bring engagement to the classroom.

August 20, 2013
Apps & Tools

10 Educational Tools Every Teacher Should Know About

Essential EdTech tools for presentation, assessment, collaboration, and classroom management.

June 15, 2013
Case Study

Union County Talks Going 1:1 and Shares Tips

How Union County School District rolled out a 1:1 device program and what other districts can learn.

May 14, 2013
Devices

3 Reasons Why iPads Beat Out Laptops in K-12

Why many districts are choosing tablets over traditional laptops for student device programs.

April 18, 2013
Mobile Learning

BYOD: The Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Network security, content filtering, device management, and equity - the real challenges of BYOD in schools.

March 22, 2013
Apps & Tools

25 Best Apps for the K-12 Classroom

A curated collection of educational apps spanning subjects from math to reading to science.

January 10, 2013
Classroom Technology

SMART Technologies Looks to Replace the Dry Erase Board

The launch of SMART's latest interactive display and what it means for classroom technology.

March 8, 2012
EdTech

Apple's Textbook Publishing Wrecking Ball

How iBooks Author and Apple's education push could reshape K-12 textbook publishing.

January 25, 2012
September 19, 2012

The key to deploying a successful 1:1 program isn’t about the device you choose. It’s about planning. Just ask Jane Whitley and Holly Bradley of the Pamlico County school district who with the help of several committees and an Impact grant managed to provide their high school students in rural North Carolina with Lenovo ThinkPad laptops.

“We wanted to provide students with access [to technology] in a rural community where there are financial limitations,” said Bradley, a visual arts teacher at Pamlico County high school. Many families cannot afford to buy each of their children laptops and for families that can Internet access may still be a problem.

“A lot of what we have is dial up,” said Whitley, Pamlico County’s instructional technology facilitator. “Because of where they are in the county the wireless provider might not be there.”