Shiny New Devices
This year, thanks to a significant technology grant, our district was able to do something truly transformative: we replaced every single device across our K–12 environment — from the smallest hands in kindergarten to our most seasoned teachers.
But as every I.T. Director knows, deploying new hardware is just the beginning. The real challenge? Preparing, protecting, and managing that investment for years to come.
Here’s how we tackled it.
K–6: iPads Meet Rugged Readiness
Our elementary students (grades K–6) received brand new iPads paired with the Logitech Rugged Combo 4 Touch keyboard cases.
We chose this combo for several key reasons:
✅ Built-in trackpad: Great for developing typing and navigation skills
✅ Rugged protection: Military-grade drop protection means we sleep better at night
✅ Easy to clean: Previous Rugged Combos had a cloth texture that got really grungy. These new ones are a clean rubbery membrane.
7–12: MacBook Airs + Brenthaven 360 Protection
Our secondary students received shiny new MacBook Airs with Apple’s latest M4 processors. To protect these devices from locker dings, backpack drops, and classroom chaos, we paired them with the Brenthaven 360 case.
Why this combo works:
✅ Slim, low-profile design
✅ Ventilated to avoid overheating
✅ Non-slip grip ideal for older students
✅ Compatible with most carts and charging stations
🛠️ Pro Deployment Move: We applied asset tags underneath each clear case before installation, making it easy to ID devices without removing the case during check-ins.
Teachers & Staff: UAG Plasma Series for MacBook Air (M4)
We didn’t forget the staff. Every certified staff member and administrator also received an M4 MacBook Air, protected with the rugged yet refined UAG Plasma Series case.
✅ Transparent but tough — doesn’t hide Apple’s design
✅ Compatible with docks, carts, and sleeves
✅ Designed to survive travel between home and school
Our staff devices often see the most travel and the most variety in use cases. The UAG case strikes a great balance between protection and style — and yes, it fits in tight satchel bags too.
How We Prepped for Deployment
This wasn’t just a device swap — it was a coordinated rollout with careful planning. Some of our behind-the-scenes steps included:
✅ Pre-Enrollment & MDM
Mosyle handled all of our zero-touch deployment and device supervision
iPads were enrolled into Apple School Manager for classroom syncing
MacBooks were supervised and configured with policies on day one
✅ App Loadouts & Settings
Installed core apps before handing out devices
Used grade-based MDM profiles to restrict access appropriately
Set up wallpapers with school branding for instant visual ID
✅ Student & Staff Expectations
Each classroom received a poster on “How to Care for Your Device”
Teachers were briefed on app restrictions, reporting damaged cases, and tracking charging habits
We hosted a short “tech boot camp” for students transitioning from iPad to MacBook
Protecting the Investment
We didn’t stop with just a case. Every device is:
🔒 Activation Locked and assigned in ASM
🔍 Trackable via MDM if lost or misplaced
❌ Restricted from app store installs (K–12)
We're also storing serial numbers, case models, and charger assignments in a centralized asset system that ties directly into our helpdesk process.
Final Thoughts
Rolling out a new device fleet is no small task. But with the right accessories, prep, and protection strategy, you’re not just distributing hardware — you’re setting your district up for success over the long haul. Don’t forget to include spares of everything. From cases to charging cords, back-ups are a must.
If you're in a similar position and have questions about MDM, cases, deployment, or damage prevention — feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to share more.
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