Back-to-School Technology Reminders

District 65-issued devices and accounts are provided to students as learning tools to support and enhance instruction across grade levels and content areas. In our classrooms technology is often used as a tool for students to create, collaborate, and think critically with their peers.

Our staff play a tremendous role in shaping our students’ experience with technology. We are proud that we had more than 600 staff members who took technology summer learning courses before the start of this school year!

See below for our back-to-school technology reminders for the 2025-2026 school year:

• Devices: 
  • District devices: All students in grades K–8 are issued an iPad. Students in grades 3–8 also use a keyboard case with their iPads. 
  • Personal devices: Beginning this year, all personal electronic devices must be powered off (not in silent or vibrate mode) and stored in a locker or a designated classroom storage area for the entire school day. View the full procedure and FAQ
• Student Accounts: All students are issued District 65 account credentials (a username and password) when they enroll in District 65 in order to access online tools. If a student forgets their username or password, guardians can view this information in the PowerSchool Parent Portal (directions in English and Spanish). 
• Clever Single Sign-On: Clever is the district’s single sign-on platform that allows students to access many of the instructional apps and tools used in District 65 with one login. Students can access Clever through the Clever app on iPads. Students log in using their District 65 Google credentials or, in grades PK–2, by scanning their Clever QR code badge in the Clever app. Educators distribute new Clever badges to students each school year. 
• Take-Home: Students in grades 6–8 take their devices home daily starting the first week of school. Students in grades K–5 begin taking devices home by November 1, in alignment with the District 65 E-Learning Plan. 
• Device Protection: As part of annual student fees, families pay a technology fee that includes the Device Protection Plan. This plan covers up to two claims per school year for accidental damage or loss, such as cracked screens, broken ports, or missing accessories. Students are expected to care for their devices, follow staff directions for responsible use, and notify a teacher right away if a device is damaged or lost so Technology Services can coordinate repairs or replacements.
• iPad Passcodes: Students in grades 6–8 are required to set a passcode on their iPads. Passcodes are created by students, not assigned by Technology Services. If a passcode is forgotten, the Tech Team can clear it remotely so a new one can be set. Students should let a teacher know right away if they are locked out of their iPad so support can be requested.
• Chargers: Students in kindergarten, 1st grade, and 5th grade receive new devices along with a charger to take home. If additional chargers are needed, students can ask their homeroom teacher (K–5) or any educator (6–8) to submit a technology support ticket on their behalf.
• YouTube: Students will no longer have open access to the YouTube website on district devices, whether at school or at home. They will still be able to view YouTube videos that are shared by their teachers directly through Google Classroom. This change is being made to help students engage more meaningfully with learning content, support safer and more intentional use of technology, and reduce digital distractions.

Manage Device Use at Home with Screen Time and Securly Home

Parents and guardians are responsible for managing their child’s device and internet use outside of school. To support families, District 65 offers resources such as Apple Screen Time for iPads and the Securly Home app, which allow caregivers to set limits, monitor activity, and block certain websites when students are using district-issued devices at home. Support for families can be found on the District website.