MLTI District Fee Clarification
Published:October 23, 2010
Dear MLTI Schools,
Recent reports have created some confusion related to MLTI policy and guidance from the Department regarding insurance and other protection plans used by schools. The Department would like to take this opportunity to clarify for schools MLTI's policies and guidance in this area.
The complete MLTI Policy Manual may be viewed online (and downloaded) on the MLTI Manual Page.
Regarding commercial insurance plans, as noted on page 10 of the MLTI Policy Manual (excerpt):
The Department does not require that schools purchase commercial insurance for accidental damage and theft of the MLTI devices, nor does it require that the school modify its school building insurance plans.
The Department holds insurance to cover catastrophic loss on school property (e.g., fire, flood, theft — minimum occurrence $25k). For catastrophic loss incidents smaller then $25k, the Department will utilize the Buffer Pool to protect schools.
However, beyond what the Buffer Pool can provide to schools as a self-insurance model, schools should assess whether or not individual laptop loss insurance is necessary at the school.
Further, as noted on page 9 of the MLTI Policy Manual (excerpt):
While the Department does not encourage schools to impose additional fees upon families, it recognizes that some schools implement these fees nonetheless. The Department cautions schools that choose to impose these fees that it should clearly explain what coverage the Buffer Pool provides, costs associated to repairs, and how the amount of the fee was determined. Lack of clarity around these types of mandatory fees has historically been the source of significant misunderstandings between schools, their communities, and the State.
Detailed buffer pool information is available on page 33 of the MLTI Policy Manual.
All MLTI participating schools agreed to establish locally determined take home policies. The Department recommends that schools establish these policies to meet the school's community standard. Historically, these policies are adopted by schools with local school board approval to ensure that the policy meets local community standards.
If your school has additional questions regarding the MLTI policies or guidance, please contact Steve Garton, Coordinator of Educational Technology, Maine Department of Education.
Thank You
MLTI Team