Junior/Senior Laptop Initiative

Beginning with the 2012 Fall Semester, RMA juniors and seniors (11th and 12th grades only) will be permitted to bring laptop personal computers to the Academy.  This policy change has been made after much deliberation and planning.  Successful implementation will greatly depend on vigilant supervision, parental support, and consistent procedures. 

Why This Policy Change?
Utilizing appropriate and relevant technology to facilitate teaching and learning is one of our goals at RMA.  Balancing the inherent challenges that come with internet-capable technology (primarily social networking and pornography) is a constant battle – one we will wage cheerfully and doggedly.  We will extend the laptop privilege to juniors and seniors only (11th and 12th grades).  Cadets will be expected to manage these devices in accordance with the good order and discipline of the Corps prescribed by the Cadet Regulations.  Additionally, we think this will help them become familiar with the technological platform and accompanying hard and software that they will carry on to college.  It is also intended to provide some relief from the tedium and regimen of Academy life.  Let’s face it, the cadet schedule is exhausting; and we make no apologies for its rigor.  We also recognize that cadets need some relief and opportunities to demonstrate their growing maturity.  Finally, allowing laptops for the upper two classes will give the underclassmen something towards which to aspire. 

A Few Requirements
We do not want this process to be onerous, but there are basic expectations that must be clearly communicated and consistently enforced.

1. Determination of academic status as a junior or senior (11th or 12th grade) will be made by the Academic Dean. 
2. Each incoming laptop must be screened by the RMA technology department. 
3. Each cadet is required to have his laptop insured against damage and theft.  He should provide proof of insurance to the Technology Department, before placing his laptop into service.  Information on laptop insurance can be found here. 
4. Each cadet will be required to purchase an approved surge protector ($18.50) and laptop security device ($30.50) from the Cadet Store.  The surge protector plugs directly into the wall outlet, and it has six swiveling outlets on it. Purchasing from the Cadet Store will simplify the process and ensure compliance with the requirements of the program.
5. Only laptops designed with a physical keyboard, permanently attached, are allowable. 
6. Laptops should remain secured at all times.  This means in the cadet's room and locked to the desk, locked in the closet, or locked in the footlocker.

If you choose not to participate in this initiative, your son will be provided an adequate, functional desktop terminal that will serve his needs. 

For more information, please refer to the Riverside Laptop Initiative Frequently Asked Questions page.

Thanks in advance for your support in this new endeavor.