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Teaching and learning are deeply human-centered endeavors, and we hold this truth at the very heart of our work in District 65. While technology serves as a powerful tool to amplify instruction, foster active student creation, and extend learning, it is never a substitute for face-to-face relationships. District-issued devices and accounts are provided as intentional learning tools to support and enhance instruction across grade levels and content areas.

Our staff play a tremendous role in shaping our students' digital experiences, and we are proud that over 300 staff members completed technology summer learning courses prior to the start of this school year!

See below for our back-to-school technology reminders for the 2026-2027 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. Students in grades K–3 will leave their district-issued devices at school this school year, while students in grades 4–8 will take their devices home on a daily basis.
  • Personal devices: 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. Learn more about how to log-in to Clever on this page on the District website. 
• 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 Technology 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: As part of our device refresh cycle, students entering 5th grade receive a new device along with a charger to take home for daily use. Students in grades 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 do not receive new devices or new chargers automatically; however, if a student in grades 4–8 needs a charger for home use, they can ask any of their teachers to submit a technology request on their behalf.

Manage Device Use at Home with Screen Time and Securly Home

District 65 supports families through resources like the Securly Home app (available for all K–8 families) to monitor online activity and set access rules while the device is at home, as well as Apple Screen Time for iPads, which caregivers with take-home devices (students in grades 4–8) can set up directly on the device to manage screen boundaries while devices are at home. Additional resources and support for families can be found on the District website.