Texas school district approves $11.19 million Apple deal to replace Chromebooks

The Beaumont Independent School District in Texas is moving from Chromebooks to Apple devices after its board approved a $11.19 million four-year lease.

The agreement will provide 14,585 devices for students and teachers from pre-K through 12th grade. The district is replacing Chromebooks, some of which were purchased more than five years ago, after spending nearly $500,000 on repairs and support.

Device allocation by grade

Students from pre-K through second grade will receive more than 4,000 iPads. Students in grades three through 12 will receive 9,500 MacBook Neo units, while teachers will receive another 1,000.

Comparison with Lenovo and Asus

The district compared the MacBook Neo with Lenovo and Asus models and concluded that Apple’s device had the strongest performance and reliability among those evaluated. Apple’s more favorable financing terms and access to AppleCare also influenced the decision.

The Lenovo model carried a minimum financing rate of 4%, a higher four-year cost and a guaranteed buyback value of $10 per device. Asus offered competitive upfront pricing and met instructional needs, but cost more over four years; the district also said its plastic parts would require more repairs.