The Waxahachie Independent School District will soon allow students to use their own smartphones, tablets and laptops in the classroom.
The Waxahachie ISD Board of Trustees approved the "Bring Your Own Device" initiative that was recently implemented to enhance technology in the classroom.
The technology initiative, dubbed iNation, benefits students by giving them the ability to take notes, prepare assignments and interact with peers and instructors in a more effective way - preparing them for a college setting.
Over the last two years the district explored the possibility of providing each student with their own computer, but that idea proved to be financially unsustainable and the district turned to the BYOD initiative as a way to make each student more connected.
The new rule starts on Jan. 21, 2014, but there are certain guidelines that must be followed.
Outside of teacher approved classroom instruction time, electronic devices can only be used before and after school, during passing periods, and at lunch time.
The BYOD program is not required for any grade level or assignment.
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The district is working on a plan that will allow students to check out electronic devices from the high school libraries as needed.
"The Bring Your Own Device initiative will transform Waxahachie ISD schools as our students will be adequately prepared for college, careers, and life in a technology enriched and digital world," stated David S. Truitt, Interim Superintendent. "I want to thank the Board of Trustees; Robert Keith, Director of Technology; and, the technology team for sharing and believing in the iNation 2.0 vision and seeing this important initiative through for our students."
