Technology Services

Lake Dallas Independent School District is excited to announce a district-wide technology refresh that will equip students and teachers with new Apple devices, ensuring the continuation of the district’s 1:1 technology program. This initiative comes after extensive research and piloting, which included direct feedback from students and teachers at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

 

With current devices reaching their “end of life” and no longer being supported by the manufacturer, this refresh is a necessary step to maintain the high-quality, reliable technology that supports student learning and classroom instruction. The new Apple devices will offer enhanced performance, improved security, and access to the latest educational tools, allowing LDISD to continue delivering innovative and engaging learning experiences.

“Our commitment to providing students with the tools they need to succeed is unwavering,” said LDISD Superintendent Dr. Kristin N. Brown. “With this technology refresh, we are ensuring that every student and teacher has access to modern, reliable devices that support creativity, collaboration, and academic growth.”

The decision to move forward with this refresh followed a comprehensive evaluation process, which included device pilots in classrooms at elementary, middle, and high school level. Through these pilots, students and teachers had the opportunity to explore the capabilities of potential devices and provide valuable feedback. This hands-on approach allowed the district to select technology that best meets the needs of both learners and educators.

The new Apple devices will be distributed for the 2025-2026 school year, ensuring a seamless transition. This upgrade will empower students with up-to-date tools that enhance learning while equipping teachers with reliable, innovative technology to enrich instruction.

Lake Dallas ISD remains committed to fostering a technology-rich environment that prepares students for success in an increasingly digital world.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why did we choose Apple devices?

   1. In order to do our due diligence, LDISD Technology has evaluated all educational model opportunities available to ensure we make the best choice for our students’ success. After evaluating the newer versions of current technology along with Apple devices, the decision was ultimately made that Apple devices were better suited to meet the educational needs of our students. 

2. What was wrong with the current devices?

   1. The devices currently in use are reaching what is known as the device’s “end of life”. This means that the device's hardware and software will no longer be subject to support from the manufacturer. Not only does this create gaps in software and hardware updates/improvements, but it also creates a less secure operating interface. Additionally, the devices we are moving to are more compatible with high-level software programs utilized at the secondary level in various Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. 

3. Doesn’t Apple cost more than what we use now? 

   1. As mentioned earlier, LDISD evaluated all available avenues for refreshing our current technology. We discovered that the cost of moving to Apple devices was comparable to replacing our technology with newer versions of the current products.

4. When will the new devices go into effect?

   1. All students and teachers will have access to a new Apple device for the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year. 

5. What devices will be put into use? 

   1. Students in grades PK-12 will have an iPad with the Apple-recommended keyboard protective case for use in all classes. Teachers will have access to a similar iPad/keyboard setup in addition to a MacBook computer. Teachers will still have access to interactive classroom displays. 

6. Will my child be able to take the device home? 

   1. Similar to our current technology protocols, elementary student devices will remain at school. Secondary students will be able to bring their device home to work on school work. 

7. Will teachers have the same devices as students? 

   1. Yes. To ensure that teachers have access to the same technology as their students, each teacher will receive an iPad and MacBook. Additionally, each classroom will be equipped to allow for  interactive collaboration between students and teachers. 

8. Will teachers receive training in these devices and software?

   1. Absolutely. Apple will be on-site before the beginning of the school year to provide in-depth training.