 11 ($365 on Amazon--price subject to change) This computer is our top pick for most York students because of its quality, ease of use, durability, battery life, and price. The touchscreen can be easily converted into tablet mode. The frame is sturdy with quality hardware. This device is not recommended for digital art students or students who want to pursue deep-level computer programming; however, computers are available on campus for those classes.
Macbook Air (starting at $850) This is a very high quality computer at a very high price. Many students and teachers find that the quality is worth the cost. This is a popular machine on campus, but no family should feel pressure to purchase one. No classes require students to own a Mac.
Windows There are many options on the market for Windows users, but we have found that Windows machines require more maintenance than Chromebooks or Macs, and York is unable to provide tech support for these machines. Windows machines made by Microsoft (such as the Surface) are generally easier to maintain and do not come overloaded with unnecessary 3rd party software. One can easily find an affordable Windows computer, but we advise against it. Chromebooks are the best inexpensive computers for York students.
TABLETS AND PHONES
Tablets such as iPads or Android tablets are nice to have as secondary devices, but they are not necessary nor suitable as a student’s primary digital device. We’ve found that mobile operating systems like iOS and Android are great, but do not meet the demands of tasks assigned to our students. The Surface 3 is technically a tablet, but it runs a full version of Windows 10, and for York use, should be purchased with a full keyboard and trackpad.
We love our phones, and students are welcome to bring them to school as long as they don’t distract from our academic program. In fact, with their cameras and microphones, these devices can be used for many academic assignments. That said, they should NOT be a student’s primary digital device. No one should endure writing an entire essay on a smartphone.
To facilitate the BYOD process, families may purchase an Acer Chromebook directly from York School at cost (approximately $365 plus shipping and tax). Please note that these are estimated prices and are subject to change. If you would like to participate in this program, please contact Fana Oldfield in the Business Office 831.372.7338 x135 / email@example.com. We ask that interested families make their decisions by July 9 so we can order the appropriate number of Chromebooks and have them ready by August 1 for pickup. The total cost of the equipment will be confirmed at that time.
If purchasing a laptop would cause a financial hardship for your family, please contact Fana Oldfield by July 1 to discuss your situation. The School is prepared to assist families with payment plans or other accommodations for the purchase of a suitable machine.
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (AUP)
All York students are required to sign and abide by the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) and manage technology with respect, responsibility, and honesty. The AUP is included in registration materials sent to families each summer.
If you have questions concerning technology, please email Kevin Brookhouser at firstname.lastname@example.org.
"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." - Benjamin Franklin
Research in the science of learning shows that hands-on building projects help young people conceptualize ideas and understand issues in greater depth. In the summer of 2014, York is creating a dedicated space designed to encourage hands-on learning, creativity, and innovation. With items such as laser-cutters, soldering irons, routers, and 3D scanners and printers, York students studying all subject areas – from science and math to history and art – will be able to apply what they learn in the classroom by creating things in the Shop.
Faculty members are brainstorming ways for students to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to hands-on building projects. Teachers are encourag