Parent Letter

First of all thanks to everyone who is reading the blog!   In Monday's blog in the comment section I was asked to share my parent letter.  I was not able to figure out how to make a link, so I decided to just cut and paste the letter here in the blog.

August 26, 2010

Dear Parents,

Your child has a unique opportunity this school year to use iPod Touches within the school setting and at home.  I wrote and received a technology grant from (insert school district)  for a class set of iPod Touches for the 2010-2011 school year.  We will be using these iPods in many different ways. 

One way will be through research the students will be using the Internet, and will be able to set their own personal bookmarks to help with their research.  Students will use their iPod to write stories and use their own creativity for illustrations. A third way will be through collaboration in which students will share their new knowledge of the iPod to help all of us grow.  The last use will be a review for academic skills, which will be interactive and fun.

As with any technology, there will be a few guidelines.  First the iPods will be treated, as the school computers, which means (insert school district name)l code of technology, will be followed.  The students are responsible for any damage that results from the misuse of the iPods.  Most accidents are covered by the warranties, but damage caused by misuse would cause us to buy a new iPod for $199.  If a student breaks any rules, there will be a consequence starting with the loss of their iPod, and you will be notified if this would occur. 

The iPods will be able to be used at home, and the students are encouraged to use it for their homework. They should not download or add any applications to their iPod.  I would appreciate your support at home with this as well as helping your child take care of it.

In addition, I will be taking photos and videos of the students using their iPod and would like your permission to post these photos and our videos. Our class will also be observed during the school year so that other teachers can observe and learn how to implement the iPods into their own classroom.

Thanks for your support and I look forward to implementing the iPods so they will extend your child’s learning.

Mrs. Caplin

Cc:  (principal's name)

This is a second page that will be attached for signatures, and I will collect this page and file them.

Please sign the terms of use of the iPod and use of photos/videos.
If you have any questions, feel free to email me.


Your child’s name  _____________________________________


1.  We agree to the terms of use for the iPod for our child.


Parent Signature ____________________________________
Date _______________________



2.  We agree to allow Mrs. Caplin to use images and videos.


Parent Signature ______________________________
Date ________________________

Feel free to use all or parts of the letter-hope it helps you with your thinking with iPods!