Academics

Technology

1:1 access for every student

Technology resources are a major component of our forward-thinking school. For more than ten years, Steward’s 1:1 program has ensured students have access to technology to enhance their education experience. In grades JK-8, iPads loaded with apps are provided to every student, and Upper School students are responsible for bringing their own devices every day. The heart of our mission is to prepare our students for college and for life; supporting technology in the classroom helps set the foundation for using devices confidently and wisely.

Our 1:1 program enhances student engagement, helps students develop research skills, and provides a variety of choices for student assessment. With proper use, technology can enhance and enrich the learning experience.

With proper use, technology can enhance and enrich the learning experience.

Device Usage and Digital Citizenship

Daily learning includes the use of laptops, tablets, and/or other devices, which help students prepare for an increasingly tech-driven world. Steward’s policies on device usage and digital citizenship help Spartans of all ages use technology responsibly. In addition, safety in all aspects of student life is our priority, and that includes protecting student data and privacy.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education

At Steward, faculty can use AI tools to support and enhance student learning. During the 2024-25 academic year, faculty and staff will have the opportunity to participate in a new program called SAIL (Steward AI Leaders Program) to supplement teaching, foster creativity, and engage students. The program aims to boost learning with the help of AI tools. SAIL-certified faculty will guide students in understanding how AI can be thoughtfully incorporated into the school experience.

The Digital Classroom

Learning management systems (LMS) such as Google Classroom and Blackbaud K12 are used in many of our classrooms. Students have access to online resources and digital textbooks, and blended learning models combine in-person and online instruction.

Technology in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Education

To enhance STEM learning, students of all ages learn coding; Lower School students’ engineering lessons and projects are bolstered through the use of LEGO Spike, a robotics kit designed to teach STEM concepts through hands-on learning and coding. Middle and Upper Schoolers learn about robotics and other technology in science and math classes. Steward frequently partners with local tech companies and STEM organizations to support STEM learning. In addition, students of all ages have the opportunity to engage in a summer coding camp, and Middle and Upper School students can join Steward’s Robotics Club.

Smart Classrooms

Steward classrooms include interactive flat panels (smartboards) that allow multiple users to write or draw on the screen simultaneously with their fingers or with styluses. Smartboards add an extra dimension to learning and instruction. The panels use myViewBoard software, a digital whiteboarding solution that increases interactivity. Audio, video, and photos added to the board can be annotated, adding an extra dimension to learning and instruction.

Support and Training
Professional development is available throughout the year to faculty and staff, including programs focused on technology integration in the classroom. As the school looks ahead, Steward plans to continue to incorporate emerging technologies into its curriculum.

Technology Highlights

In addition to the 1:1 program, the school’s technology highlights include:

Interactive whiteboards
Chromebook cart for grades 2-5
AV-equipped classrooms and conference rooms
Campus-wide student and guest wireless internet
State-of-the-art digital graphics lab with Macs and Adobe Creative Suite
Online access to World Book, iXL, Brain Pop, Brittanica School, and more
ELMO document cameras
3D printers located in Lower School and Middle/Upper School libraries as well as the Bryan Innovation Lab
KIBO and Sphero robots

Technology Requirements

All students in grades 9-12 are required to bring a laptop of their choosing.

Laptops must meet the following requirements:

Wireless Connectivity: Devices must support
WiFi6 (802.11 ax)
Diagonal Screen Size: at least 11 inches
Display: 1024x768 or more
RAM: 8 GB or more
CPU: Intel 11th Gen Core i5 or faster (or alternate equivalent processor)
Storage: 64 GB
Battery: 6 hours
Internet Browser: Edge, Chrome, Firefox, or Safari
Operating System: Windows 11 or higher; Mac 12 (Monterey) or higher
Preferred Features: Camera and microphone
Protective Case: Sturdy enough to handle a fall
Video Output: HDMI or HDMI adapter
Charger

Warranty: We strongly recommend that parents purchase an extended warranty for the device at the time of purchase. The Steward School Help Desk will be available for first-level support. If the problem can be easily fixed, the Help Desk will do so. If not, students will be provided with a loaner device for no longer than two days while the family repairs or replaces the device. Just like textbooks, the student owns and is ultimately responsible for the upkeep of the device.