SJND is happy to introduce the Bring Your Own Computer program, coming to campus in the fall of 2012.

Each student will be required every day to bring a computer – laptop, netbook or tablet – with them to school. Rather than specify one device, the school is encouraging students to bring the computer they have, providing it meets the minimum specifications.

The idea of the BYOC program, which mirrors what students will encounter in college, is to make it accessible and convenient for all. SJND has identified a computer that will meet the program’s needs for an estimated $400.

The program comes after two years of research by administrators on how to best create a fully digital campus. The BYOC program will be key to the learning process here at SJND because:

• Computers provide students with multiple ways of learning and prompt students to apply higher-order thinking skills to “big-picture” strategic issues.
• Students with computers spend more time engaged in collaborative work and more readily engage in problem solving and critical thinking.
• Students will use a computer as a tool to organize due dates, assignments and other engagements.
• A digital campus will give students greater skills, comfort and confidence in using technology.

Perhaps the greatest benefit to SJND families is the decreased dependency on textbooks. E-textbooks will gradually be integrated into the curriculum, so that students will have all of their materials in one place.

This will serve to reduce book costs to families. We also expect ongoing improvement in student and teacher communication as assignments and feedback will largely be electronic.

The administration and faculty looks forward to launching this exciting program to benefit our students in so many ways.