Last-Minute Student Tech Shopping Guide

Still need that perfect gift that will keep on giving and that your student will appreciate? Our tech team has come up with their own list of tech gifts that have your student's name all over them. If all else fails, the ever-popular iTunes Gift Card is always an option...

Griffin Survivor iPad Case

Military-grade protection is the name of the game. Let's be real here - your children use their iPads for a lot more than just schoolwork, and that means that they get tossed around, left around, and who knows what else. If you want total protection for your iPad investment, $79.99 (full size iPad) is a small price to pay for that kind of peace-of-mind (iPad Mini case - $59.99). Yes, this one is black, but with 18 different color combinations currently available, even the pickiest can find one they will like. For more information, check out Griffin's website here: www.griffintechnology.com.

New Trent Portable USB Dual Charger

All of our best intentions to charge our electronic devices each night sometimes come up short. With this dual USB charger from New Trent though, students can have the extra juice they need, regardless of where they are throughout the day and if they plugged up overnight. And with two charging ports, they can even share a charge with their neighbor. At around just $50, this rugged water, dirt, and shockproof charger makes a great gift for your on-the-go student and can really come in handy in a bind. Like all other electronics though, it also needs to be charged at some point! You can find this charger on Amazon by clicking here.

iHome iDM8 Rechargeable Portable Bluetooth Speaker

For the music-lover, here's a great portable speaker option for when you want to share your music with everyone - not a great idea to take to school though! Perfect for road trips or study sessions, all you need is a bluetooth compatible device like an iPad or iPhone - even Android devices and most laptops will connect. The tennis ball-size speaker provides crisp sound that’s perfect for your music, games or apps, and the built-in lithium-ion battery is rechargeable, so you can enjoy music on the go without worrying about batteries. Get more info on the iHome website here: www.ihomeaudio.com.

ZAGG iPad Keyboard + Case Combo

This keyboard and case is ideal for the student who is a big note-taker but prefers the size and convenience of their iPad over a laptop. With a bluetooth-connected keyboard complete with backlit keys, and an integrated case that secures the screen of the iPad against the keyboard when closed, this combo is the ultimate in protection and convenience. Typing on the iPad has never been faster! See this and many other case/keyboard options online at www.zagg.com.

JUST FOR FUN:

LEGO Mindstorms Robot

If your child enjoys hands-on technology, then the LEGO robotics series is the perfect gift! Some of you may even be familiar with them from the elementary's B.O.O.S.T. class offered here at the Academy. At $349, it's pricey, but designed for ages 10+, it's sure to keep them both busy and exploring their creative side while developing their building and programming skills. Check out LEGO's website here for more information on this set: www.shop.lego.com. COMPILED BY: David Barber | Director of Network Operations Email Mr. Barber Esther Archer | Helpdesk Administrator Email Ms. Archer