District weighs iPads and new MacBook Neo as it retools tech staff and digital strategy

The district’s technology lead (addressed in the meeting as Jason) delivered an update on the district’s technology vision, next‑generation devices and staffing needs.

Jason said the district’s Chromebooks are at end of life and that staff are “strongly considering an iPad for secondary with a rugged case” while monitoring Apple’s recently announced MacBook Neo, which could offer a MacBook‑like experience at a lower price. He told trustees pricing between the iPad (with case and warranty) and the Neo appeared similar, and that the district has not made a final decision.

Beyond device selection, the presentation outlined a restructured technology department split into three groups—technology systems, data and services, and instructional technology—with hires proposed including an instructional technology coordinator, two instructional technology coaches (elementary and secondary), a network administrator and a help desk operator to reduce the reliance on school staff performing tier‑1 support.

Jason also emphasized priorities around digital literacy, screen‑time management and security. Trustees asked about user groups involved in selection; Jason said a teacher advisory group, instructional coaches and principals contributed input. Superintendent and board discussion framed technology choices as tools to support instruction and stressed the importance of training and guardrails before rollout.

The board did not take a binding vote on device selection; the technology team expects to return with a recommendation next month.