Chromebooks making a difference for all district students

Posted November 2020

By Sergio Valles

Staff Editor

The district, which serves approximately 10,000 students, including nine elementary schools, three middle schools, one alternative high school, and one high school, made Chromebooks available to all its students so each student can participate in Comprehensive Distance Learning, or CDL.

“We have about 12,500 Chromebooks," district director of technology and assessment, Derek Edens said.

The Chromebooks were safely checked out during drive-up registration in September. The district website lists “tips and tricks” for students parents to help maintain the devices.

"Keep food and drink away from the device to avoid accidental damage," the list instructs. "Handle the device with clean hands. Use appropriate cleaning supplies. Always keep your Chromebook in its protective case. Store it in a safe location every night, preferably away from your bedroom."

The district also offers "Digital Citizenship" tips.

"Communicate responsibly with your device," the list instructs. "Cyberbullying is strictly prohibited and may lead to criminal charges. All student emails sent over district systems. Never reveal or post identifying personal information to unknown people on the internet. Do not attempt to bypass the district filter or browse materials unacceptable in an academic setting. If you accidentally find an inappropriate website, report it immediately to your teacher or parent. Follow copyright laws and fair use guidelines. Only download music, videos, or other content related to your school work.

There are also "Parent/Guardian" tips.

"Have a discussion with your student concerning the expectations around the use of their 1:1 device," the list instructs parents and guardians. "All 1:1 devices have an internet filter that blocks non-educational websites. No filter can catch every website, so talk with your student around safe and responsible web browsing. Have your student charge their device at night in a common area instead of their bedroom."