Q: Why a Chromebook?

Chromebooks give every student access to the same learning tools, websites, and resources, both at school and at home. They work seamlessly with the Google programs our teachers use every day and allow us to provide better support and a consistent learning experience for all students. 

Having everyone use the same device also allows us to provide better support and keep our systems safe and secure.

Q: Who gets a Chromebook?

All students in grades 7-12 receive a district Chromebook. Students who enroll after grade 7 will receive one when they join the district.

Homeschooled students are not eligible.

Q: Does my student have to use the district Chromebook?

Yes. Students are expected to use their district-issued Chromebook at school each day.

Q: Can my student still use a personal laptop at school?

No. Beginning this school year, personal laptops and other student-owned computers may not be used at school or connected to the district network.

Students should bring their school Chromebook to school each day, fully charged and ready to learn.

Q: Why did the district make this change?

Using school-owned devices helps us:

Q: Can my student still use their personal computer at home?

Absolutely. Personal devices can still be used at home for games, entertainment, and personal activities.

We do encourage students to complete schoolwork on their district Chromebook whenever possible because it has all of the programs and resources they need.

Q: Will my student keep the Chromebook over the summer?

Yes. Students keep their Chromebooks over the summer unless they are graduating or leaving the district. We encourage families to store the device safely and continue using it for educational enrichment.

Q: Will all textbooks be online?

No. Some classes will still use printed textbooks and materials. 

Q: How long will my student keep their Chromebook?

Students who receive a Chromebook in grade 7, or when they enroll in the district, will keep it unless or until their device is refreshed or replaced, or through graduation. Any student who graduates from Pentucket or leaves the district for any reason must return both the Chromebook and charger before departing.

Q: What if my student forgets their Chromebook?

Students should bring their Chromebook to school every day. The district has a limited number of loaner devices, but they are not always available.

Q: What if the Chromebook is damaged?

Please report damage to the Technology Department as soon as possible. If you purchased insurance, the repair may be covered. If you did not purchase insurance, you may be responsible for repair or replacement costs.

Q: Why should I consider buying insurance?

Insurance can protect your family from unexpected repair or replacement costs. While insurance is optional, families without insurance are responsible for damage or loss of the device.

Q: Can I buy insurance later?

Yes. Insurance can be purchased at any time. However, the Chromebook must be in good working condition and free of damage before coverage can begin.

Q: I need to file an insurance claim. How do I do it?

Please refer to your insurance provider's policies and procedures for filing a claim.

Q: If I choose not to purchase the optional insurance, what repair costs should I expect?

Examples of common repair costs include:

Repair costs are subject to change based on parts and replacement pricing.

Q: Can students log into another district Chromebook?

Yes. Since student work is stored online, students can log into another district Chromebook if needed.

Q: What if the Chromebook is lost or stolen?

Lost or stolen devices should be reported to the Technology Department and school administration as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances, families without insurance may be responsible for replacement costs.

Q: Will the Chromebook still be filtered at home?

Yes. District Chromebooks are filtered both at school and at home to help keep students safe online and to comply with federal requirements.

Q: Can students use the Chromebook at home?

Students may use their Chromebook for appropriate school-related activities, provided that all use complies with the district's Acceptable Use Policy.

Q: Can students connect personal laptops to school Wi-Fi?

No. Personal laptops and other student-owned devices may not be connected to the district network.

Q: Can students connect their phones to school Wi-Fi?

The district's expectations for student cell phone use have changed. Please refer to communications from the school regarding student cell phones and network access.

Q: What if my student needs a special program that isn't available on the Chromebook?

Please contact your teacher or the Technology Department. We will work with you to find a solution.

Q: What happens if my student leaves the district and does not return the Chromebook or charger?

Chromebooks and chargers remain the property of the Pentucket Regional School District and must be returned when a student withdraws or graduates. Families may be billed for any unreturned equipment.

Q: I still have questions. Who should I contact?

Please email Chromebook_Questions@prsd.org and we will be happy to help.