Technology and Learning in School District 197

School District 197 is committed to finding the right balance between technology and traditional learning. While digital tools can strengthen instruction, we also know that paper, pencil, and hands-on practice are essential for learning.

Our goal is not to eliminate technology, but to use it purposefully—when it supports student understanding and strong teaching.

Below is an overview of how technology is used across our schools.


How Technology Supports Learning

In our classrooms, teachers blend digital tools with paper-and-pencil learning to support strong instruction and student engagement. Staff are thoughtful about when technology enhances learning—and when traditional methods are more effective.

For example, many elementary and middle school classrooms now use new math workbooks, allowing more problem-solving to happen on paper while technology may be used for practice, feedback, or visual demonstrations. In addition, our K-2 literacy curriculum also has a workbook.

When used intentionally, technology can support learning in important ways:

  • Extending lessons beyond the textbook: Interactive diagrams, videos, and simulations can bring complex concepts to life.
  • Customizing learning experiences: Teachers can provide targeted practice, enrichment, or different levels of challenge to meet students where they are.
  • Improving accessibility for all learners: Built-in tools can read text aloud, translate content into multiple languages, and adjust visual settings to support different learning needs.
  • Providing timely feedback: Teachers can see student work in real time and provide quicker feedback to support learning.

Technology works best when it supports strong teaching—not replaces it.


Student Devices

Grades K–8: iPads

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade use district-issued iPads as learning tools in the classroom.

Teachers use iPads for activities such as:

  • Interactive learning apps
  • Research and exploration
  • Digital practice and feedback
  • Creative projects and presentations
  • Submit work and receive feedback

These tools are used alongside traditional learning methods like reading, writing, discussion, and hands-on activities.

Grades 9–12: Chromebooks

High school students use district-issued Chromebooks to support learning and coursework.

Chromebooks allow students to:

  • Access course materials and assignments
  • Collaborate with teachers and classmates
  • Conduct research and complete digital projects
  • Submit work and receive feedback


Safety, Filtering, and Monitoring

To support safe and focused technology use, the district maintains web filtering and monitoring systems on all student devices while they are at school.

District tools include:

  • Jamf Safe Internet Filter: Blocks inappropriate or distracting content on district iPads at school and at home.
  • Jamf Teacher/Apple Classroom: Allows teachers to guide student focus and reduce distractions during lessons.

 

Tools for Families

We also offer tools to help families reinforce expectations at home.

For K–8 iPads

Outside of the school day, the Jamf Parent App gives parents enhanced filtering options for their child's school-issued device right from their own smartphone. 

Through the Jamf Parent app, you can:

  • Set basic limits for apps or device functions at home on a school-issued iPad.

  • Create additional limits on web browsing beyond the filtering already in place.

  • Encourage responsible technology habits by limiting when or how long an app can be used.

Getting Started is Easy:

Need Help?
Check out Jamf more detailed information here - Getting Started with Jamf Parent.

Additional Home Options

Families may also choose to use tools available through their home internet or devices:

  • Home Wi-Fi Filtering: Many providers (Xfinity, Quantum Fiber, CenturyLink) offer parental controls to block websites or set device usage limits.
  • Google Family Link (Chromebooks): Allows families to set screen time, app limits, and website restrictions when students log into personal Google accounts outside school hours.
  • Router-Based Controls: Some home routers allow families to filter content or set internet schedules for specific devices.

While we maintain strong safeguards at school, we recognize that technology use continues beyond the school day, and these tools can help families reinforce expectations at home.


Clear Expectations at Home

To support focused learning environments, we maintain consistent expectations for device use.

  • iPads are learning tools: During the school day, iPads are expected to be used for learning activities. While students may occasionally have “choice time,” options will remain connected to academic goals.

  • Consistent classroom expectations: Teachers may use Apple Classroom or Jamf Teacher to guide device use and ask students to put devices away when they are not needed.
  • Cell phone and headphone restrictions: Following state law and district policy, personal cell phones and headphones are not allowed during the school day. While these expectations are not new, families and students will see stronger, more consistent enforcement across our schools this year.


Our Commitment

Across School District 197, meaningful learning is happening every day—from experiments and group projects to reading, writing, and real-world problem-solving. As we continue to work with staff and families, we remain committed to ensuring technology remains a helpful learning tool while maintaining a strong focus, engagement, and balance in the classroom.

Thank you for partnering with us in this important work.