[G3] Preparing for Grade 4: MacBook Laptop Requirements

Dear Parents of Current Grade 3 Students,

As your child moves into Grade 4, one important change is coming: students in Grades 4–12 are required to bring an Apple MacBook to school every day. This is the first year your family will need one, so we want to make sure you have everything you need to prepare for it.

What you need to do before August 2026

Your child will need a MacBook that meets the school’s requirements, ready for the first day of school. Full details — including recommended models, minimum specifications, and where to buy — are on our laptop program page, here. 

New this year: school-managed software (Grades 4 - 6)

Starting in August 2026, the SSIS ICT team will manage the operating system (macOS) and educational software on all MacBooks for students in Grades 4 - 6. This means the ICT team will install and maintain the programs your child needs for school, so you don’t have to. There is no cost to families for this service.

Your family still purchases and owns the laptop. SSIS only manages the software needed for learning. The school does not access, monitor, or store your personal files or private data. Parents maintain administrative permissions, and students will have standard permissions.

At the start of the school year, your child will bring their MacBook to school for a one-time software setup session. We will confirm the specific date and any preparation steps before the start of school. 

Optional: Home screen time support

For families who would find it useful, we will also offer an option to help manage laptop access at home during certain hours. This is entirely optional and free of charge. We will share more details in the coming months.

Questions?

We are happy to help! Please contact Danai Maramba, Instructional Coach for ES Technology, at dmaramba@ssis.edu.vn. 

Thank you for your continued partnership as your child takes this next step.

Mrs. Melanie Sylvester
Elementary School Principal