Computing Equipment Standards

Last Updated: 5/29/2024 (MBP Specs updated)

This policy establishes a standardized computing configuration across our academic environment. In recognizing the pivotal role of technology in modern education, this policy aims to ensure a consistent and optimized computing experience for students, faculty, and staff. By defining the standard issue computing specifications, we strive to enhance efficiency, foster a seamless learning environment, and promote a shared technological foundation that supports our commitment to academic excellence at Miami Country Day School. This policy guides the acquisition, usage, and maintenance of computing devices, aligning with our school's vision for a technologically advanced and integrated educational experience.

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Laptops

MacBook Air - Standard

Apple MacBook Air laptops are lightweight, power-efficient, and modern laptops. This is our standard-issue laptop for students (Grades 5-8), faculty, staff, and administrators.

• Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU, 7‑core GPU, 16‑core Neural Engine

• 8GB unified memory

• 256GB SSD storage

• 13-inch Retina display with True Tone

• Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports

• 30W USB-C Power Adapter

• Backlit Magic Keyboard with Touch ID - US English

Windows Laptop - Staff and Administrator Option

Staff and Administrators have the option to request a Windows-based laptop instead of the MacBook Air standard laptop configuration. Windows-based laptops are manufactured by Lenovo and will be based on the following standard configuration:

• Intel i5 chip

• 8 GB RAM

• 256 GB SSD storage

• 14-inch display

MacBook Pro

Apple MacBook Pro laptops are designed for graphics-intensive, mobile use cases. These laptops are only provided to specific positions, based on the established professional responsibilities and duties required to be performed regularly.

• Apple M3 chip with 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine

• 24GB unified memory

• 1TB SSD storage

• 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display²

• 70W USB-C Power Adapter

• Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports, HDMI port, SDXC card slot, headphone jack, MagSafe 3 port

• Backlit Magic Keyboard with Touch ID - US English

Requesting Consideration for a MacBook Pro

The managing director for the position should place a formal request for consideration through the Incident IQ. The request should include the business justification and any additional information that would be useful when the CIO reviews the request.

After receiving a request for consideration, the CIO will obtain a current job description for the position from Human Resources. The CIO will then review the request along with the established responsibilities of the position. At their discretion, the CIO may reach out to request additional information from the managing director and/or Human Resources.

The decision of the CIO will be communicated through the request via Incident IQ. If approved, TIO will purchase the new laptop and will advise the team member receiving the upgraded laptop to begin their backup process to be prepared to receive their new computer.

*MacBook Pro laptops that are granted based on the job duties of a position will remain in place for new team members assuming vacated roles. Individuals changing jobs will not automatically be allowed to retain the MacBook Pro if their new role does not justify that technology asset.

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Monitors

24" Monitor - Standard

Professional community members will be provided with one standard-issue 24" external monitor upon request. The exact make and model will be determined at the time of the request.

Additional or Larger Monitors

Larger monitors (up to 32") may be requested to fulfill a specific accommodation plan on file with Human Resources, or due to a verified necessity of a specific position.

Requesting Consideration for a Second or Larger Monitor

The managing director for the position or Human Resources should place a formal request for consideration through the Incident IQ. The request should include the business justification, formal accommodation plan if requested by Human Resources, and any additional information that would be useful when the CIO reviews the request.

After receiving a request for consideration, the CIO will obtain a current job description for the position from Human Resources. The CIO will then review the request along with the established responsibilities of the position. At their discretion, the CIO may reach out to request additional information from the managing director and/or Human Resources.

The decision of the CIO will be communicated through the request via Incident IQ. If approved, TIO will purchase and deploy the additional or larger monitor and will coordinate deployment with the team member receiving the upgraded equipment.

*Additional and/or larger monitors granted based on the job duties of a position will remain in place for new team members assuming vacated roles. Individuals changing jobs will not automatically be permitted to transfer additional and/or larger monitors in their new role at the school.

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Computing Accessories

Charger and Cable

Every laptop and tablet is provided with an appropriate charger and cable.

Case or Cover

Laptops and tablets are provided with a protective case or cover. These accessories help extend the life of the device, and in some cases, expand the functionality, professional community members must use the provided case or cover.

Docking Station

A docking station will be provided to users with a laptop connected to a monitor who works in a dedicated office location.

HDMI Dongle

HDMI Dongles are provided upon request to assist mobile users in connecting to TVs and projectors in multiple locations across campus and when traveling on official school business.

External Keyboard, Mouse, Trackpad, or Stylus

An external keyboard, mouse, trackpad, or stylus may be requested at any time by the professional community team member. Special requests for specific models may need to be approved by the team member's supervisor and the cost may be charged back to their home department.

Desktop Printer

Printers are no longer provided to classroom locations. Printers are provided to departments which are then shared by multiple users. When at all possible, print jobs should be sent to copiers or the copy center in the Maintenance department. Existing printers located in specific classrooms and private offices will be maintained, but not replaced upon the end of their functional life.

Replacement Accessories

With the understanding that computing accessories provided to our professional community are provided to increase functionality and efficiency, all requests for replacement accessories made to the ITS Helpdesk will be immediately honored, without approval or notification to supervisors.

To manage and allocate resources efficiently, the cost of the provided replacement computer accessories will be charged back to the home department for any requested replacements. This policy ensures responsible usage and encourages mindful care of school equipment. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a conducive and cost-effective working, teaching, and learning environment.

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Standard Instructional and Conference Room Equipment

ViewSonic ViewBoard Touch-Screen Monitor

Each instructional space on campus is equipped with a ViewSonic 75" ViewBoard Touch-Screen Monitor. This monitor is positioned at the front of the class and is intended to be used as an instructional tool for faculty. Functionality for every ViewBoard includes the ability to mark up the screen and images projected on it using special markers. Additionally, every ViewBoard is equipped with an Apple TV and a dedicated Windows PC or MacMini.

Conference spaces may be equipped with ViewBoards or other large-format display monitors.

Apple TV

Instructional and conference spaces equipped with a ViewSonic ViewBoard or other large-format displays are also equipped with an Apple TV device. A standard set of applications and subscription services are included with the Apple TV. Additionally, the RiseVision player app is included and configured to display rotating messages from the digital signage around campus.

Apple Mac Mini

Apple Mac Mini computers are being deployed to replace the existing Windows PCs that are installed along with the ViewSonic ViewBoard displays. These Mac Mini computers are configured to take advantage of the touch-screen functionality of the ViewBoard.

Combination Keyboard and Trackpad/Trackball

A combination keyboard and trackpad/trackball device is included with each Mac Mini. This accessory should not be separated from the Mac Mini it is installed with.

IMPORTANT

Do not attempt to relocate or remove the installed classroom/conference/office equipment on your own. All moves should be submitted to, and performed by, members of ITS. Rolling carts may be moved around carefully within their assigned spaces, but may not be moved to another space without the approval and assistance of ITS.