Westborough schools review device policy, replacement cycle and data protections in technology update

John Green, director of technology for Westborough Public Schools, told the School Committee on April 11 that the district’s technology program centers on a graded device model, student privacy protections and a multi‑year replacement cycle.

Green said the district assigns iPads in kindergarten through sixth grade (with iPads increasingly traveling home in grades 5–6), Chromebooks for grades 7–9 that travel with students, and a bring‑your‑own‑device approach in grades 10–12. “This progression of iPad to Chromebook to bring your own gives students a range of experiences with different tools and technologies,” he said.

The presentation outlined why the program matters: Green described technology as a tool for universal design for learning, supporting “multiple means of engagement, representation, and multiple means of expression and action” so more students can access the curriculum.

Green also described operational practices: the technology department has 17 full‑time equivalents; each elementary school typically has a computer support technician and a building technology paraeducator; district roles include an IT infrastructure administrator, data architect and a director of technology. He said PowerSchool and Google Identity Management are core systems and that the district limits vendor access to student data and prioritizes vendors that provide strong…