Apple has officially announced it has been awarded a $30 million iPad deal from the LA Unified School District, the second largest school district in the USA. Apple says there are close to 10 million iPads in schools today.
“Education is in Apple’s DNA and we’re thrilled to work with Los Angeles Unified public schools on this major initiative as they plan to roll out iPads to every student across 47 campuses this fall,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “Schools around the world have embraced the engaging and interactive quality of iPad with nearly 10 million iPads already in schools today.”
“The Board voted unanimously for Apple because iPad rated the best in quality, was the least expensive option and received the highest scoring by the review panel that included students and teachers,” said Jaime Aquino, LAUSD Deputy Superintendent of Instruction. “The vote is another step forward in the District’s plan to equip every one of its students with a device by 2014. When completed, the LAUSD will become the largest district in the nation to provide each of its students with the technology.”
Apple will supply iPads which will include the Pearson Common Core System of Courses, to be delivered via a new app. Other apps such as iWork, iLife, iTunes and other education third-party apps will be included as well. AllThingsD first reported Apple had landed the deal earlier this morning.
Update: AllThingsD says these iPads will come with a three year warranty and cost $678 each.
