mLISD: The mLISD Story

At Leander ISD, we are committed to transforming the learning experience so that all students graduate with every option open, maintaining the same joy and passion for learning they had when they first entered our schools, without economic barriers determining their success.

Through this transformation, we strive to create learning environments where students are actively engaged, collaborating with peers, connecting with their community and the world, solving real-world problems, and developing meaningful ideas. In our next-generation classrooms, students are empowered to learn in ways that work best for them and to demonstrate their learning through creative and innovative approaches.

Students take ownership of their growth by setting goals and reflecting on their progress. In Leander ISD, students are not just consumers of information; they are producers, scholars, creators, researchers, performers, and designers.

The Leander Mobile Learning Initiative (mLISD) supports this vision by ensuring students are prepared to enrich our world and succeed in a global society—where each student is challenged, encouraged, and supported to reach their highest potential in knowledge, skills, and character in a digital world.

From 2007 to 2010, Leander ISD began investing in technology for classrooms. Over time, much of this equipment became outdated, over 50% of devices are now more than five years old, with some over eight. In 2014, the Board of Trustees allocated funds to begin technology replacement.

Rethinking Technology in Classrooms

Instead of simply replacing desktops, we explored how technology could better support student learning. A district-wide team gathered input from teachers, campus leaders, and stakeholders. The feedback was clear:

• Students need more consistent access to devices.
• Shared classroom sets are less effective than devices traveling with students.
• Technology should place students at the center of learning, anytime and anywhere.

Why mLISD Was Created

Other factors influenced our approach:

• In 2011, the state combined textbook and technology funds into the Instructional Materials Allotment, reducing funding to about one-third of previous levels.
• More instructional materials are digital, and students need devices to access these resources.
• Access to digital content and resources is rapidly expanding, offering new learning opportunities.

mLISD was created to ensure students have the tools they need to engage with digital learning, maximize instructional time, and be prepared for a world where technology is central to education.

Leander ISD values the meaningful use of technology to support deeper learning and mastery of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Elementary students have daily access to a variety of devices on campus. Starting in 6th grade, students are encouraged to participate in the mLISD 1:1 program, using either a district-issued or personally owned laptop or Chromebook.

• Anytime, Anywhere Learning: Expands access to digital content, tools, and resources beyond the classroom.
• Student-Centered Learning: Encourages creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and student ownership of learning.
• Aligned to LISD Vision: Supports the Graduate Profile, Student Learning Model, Ethical Principles, and Student Learning Behaviors.
• Comprehensive Support Systems: Includes training for students, staff, and families; device management; infrastructure; and clear policies.
• Proven Pilot Success: Over 1,600 devices deployed with 90%+ student participation during initial pilot programs.
• Elementary Integration: Classrooms equipped with a mix of devices to support innovative teaching and learning.

• Tech it Out – Raider Rumbler
• Devices for Learning – EdTech Focus on K-12 1:1 Initiatives
• Why More Schools Are Breaking Away from In-house Device Management –EdTech Focus on K-12–
  “It’s Handled!”