Lipscomb Academy Middle School iPad Initiative

We are excited that Lipscomb Academy Middle School will be using iPads in the classroom beginning with the 2013-2014 school year. We are asking Middle School (grades 5-8) parents to provide an iPad for their child to use during the school day.

What type of iPad is required?

Either:
An iPad 4 with Retina Display *Wi-Fi with at least 32 GB of Memory
or
An iPad Mini *Wi-Fi with at least 32 GB of Memory

For the 2013-2014 school year, we will allow an iPad 2 to be used or an iPad 4 or iPad Mini with 16 GB of memory. In subsequent years we feel that 16 GB will not be sufficient for school needs. Please do not purchase a new iPad with only 16 GB of memory and please do not purchase a new iPad 2 for school use.

*We do not recommend purchasing a cellular option with your iPad. Students will not be allowed to use cellular connections at school.

What is required in addition to the iPad?

• A case with hard corner protection (we are recommending the Griffin Survivor case)
• Damage coverage - AppleCare or Care2 from MacAuthority
• MacAuthority will allow you to purchase the Care2 warranty with previously purchased unopened iPads. An opened iPad will have to be inspected by one of their technicians before they will cover it.

Where can we buy?

• MacAuthority
  • MacAuthority has set up a purchasing portal for Lipscomb Academy families at http://buy.macauthority.com/lipscombacademy/register/. This will allow registration and then purchasing of an iPad with minimum specifications (Wi-Fi only), required Care2 damage coverage, an optional Griffin case, and optional engraving.
  • MacAuthority can provide 6 months financing with no interest (more info here). Zero interest financing is not available through their e-commerce site; you will have to go to the store.
• The Apple Store - Green Hills Mall or Cool Springs Galleria.
• Apple Online
• Other retail or online stores

What costs can we expect?

• The iPad Mini 32 GB Wifi is $429. The iPad with Retina Display 32 GB WiFi is $599. MacAuthority is giving a small discount on these prices.
• AppleCare or Care2 is $99.
• The Griffin survivor case retails for $79.99 but can usually be purchased for less through MacAuthority or other retailers.
• You may be asked to purchase apps. We will make a determined effort to use free apps when available and keep requests for app purchases to a minimum.