FAQs

When will students' be receiving the Chromebooks?

We expect to hand out the Chromebooks starting the week of January 7th with the goal that all Sophomore students will have their device by the start of Term 3 (January 22nd).

Can a student refuse the 1:1 Chromebook?

Just like we have students use the same textbook in class, students will now be required to have the same Chromebook (Lenovo 300e) in school. When every student has a device, the district ensures that all students have access to the same tools and resources. It also allows us to decrease any use of smartphones in the classroom for academic purposes. We are excited about the possibilities for instructional flexibility, personalized learning, and collaboration provided by all students having the same Chromebook.

Will teachers also be getting Chromebooks?

Unfortunately no. The budget does allow for the purchase of Chromebooks for teachers. However, teachers can sign out loaner laptops to become familiar with the devices.

What should a student do if he/she forgot their laptop?

For the roll out in January we will not be handing out loaner laptops to students who forget their Chromebook at home unless it's needed for an in class assignment. Our priority is to have loaners on hand in case of damages and/or hardware/software issues. It's difficult to estimate how many issues we will have within this first month and will be able to reassess the loaner situation in February. If you are planning a lesson around students having a Chromebook you will be able to fill out a form and students can come to the main office to pick up a Chromebook loaner for your class.

Eventually students will have access to loaner Chromebooks from the main office. Loaner Chromebooks will need to be returned at the end of the school day. We will have approximately 50 loaners at South.

What if a student has a hardware issue?

If a student needs a computer repaired he/she can visit the Tech Office (9104). A representation from the tech department will always be available during J block. In cases where the Chromebook needs to be sent out for repair, students will receive a loaner Chromebook. In cases of damage/theft, parents/guardians need to file a police/fire report.

What if a student has a software issue?

This is a work in progress. As of now, students can come to the Tech Office for support (9104). However, throughout this rollout we will better understand the needs of students and if necessary change our plan to meet the needs of the students.

What should a student do if he/she forgot their charger?

During the 2017-2018 pilot we found that if students had forgotten their charger they were loaned one from a friend or classmate. For this year, we will not be loaning chargers to students. We can reassess charging issues next year. It's important to note that the Lenovo 300e Chromebooks hold a 10 hour charge, and take approximately 1.5 hours to go from 0% battery to full.

Will the Chromebooks be able to print?

As of now, the Chromebooks will not be able to print. Students can continue to go to the library to print out papers/materials for classes.

Will there be an expectation for teachers to provide more materials electronically and for students to submit work electronically?

No, there is no expectation for teachers to do more work online. But there is the hope that we will eventually move in this direction - from both a cost standpoint and from a good steward of the environment standpoint.

What are the school norms/expectations for technology use in the classroom?

We do not expect that laptops will be used every day. We do not expect you to change your practice to incorporate technology into your lessons. Teachers should view this as a tool to further what you are already doing in your classroom - or to make your classroom practice easier. Our hope is that teachers are open to learning and trying new things in their classroom with these devices and sharing what works and what doesn't work.

Is there a way to restrict online student use?

The web filtering and security that is all part of the certificate roll-out limits access to particular off-limit sites, but in general we have a history (maybe even philosophy) of NOT filtering or banning particular sites except those that may be prohibited by law/regulation based on the fact that we receive federal funds.

Is there any plan to restrict or monitor students’ laptops through the teacher (GoGuardian or another program)?

At this time no. The programs are too expensive and with the purchase of all these computers and some software to support teachers and student learning we can’t purchase monitoring software at this time.

Does 1:1 mean we will, henceforth, only purchase books that are online?

No. There is no plan to only purchase books or textbooks online. However, these devices give students easy access to digital books in addition to the flexibility to read/study in a format that works best for him/her (online or paper).