Students in Lehighton Area School District will have the option to bring their own electronic device, such as an iPad or Chromebook, with them this year to limit the amount of sharing going on within schools.

The “Bring Your Own Device” policy was described in a letter sent to parents Thursday. Many parents, however, thought that meant the district was requiring each student to bring their own device.

“This is not a requirement and if they do not have a personal device they will have access to technology when needed as part of the educational day,” Superintendent Jonathan Cleaver said in a follow-up statement on Friday. “Part of the Bring Your Own Device is an effort to limit the times that students are using a shared computer or other resources.”

The district said it will focus on the use of an iPad for students in K-2, and a Chromebook for students in grades 3-12.

“The Bring Your Own Device is an option that some parents and guardians may want to consider,” Cleaver said. “If a student does not have one, however, it will be provided for them.”

Thursday’s letter also stated that, at a minimum, students and staff would be required to have face coverings during transition times throughout the day.

The district is also encouraging students and staff to bring their own water bottles to school, as the use of fountains will be limited.