Staff Chromebooks

Why is SDUHSD moving to Chromebook Plus devices for teachers and Education Specialists?

ChromeOS devices like the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 provide enhanced account security, including automatic updates and data protection. 

Who and what is included in this transition?

• • Teachers and Education Specialists. All other staff can request to switch to a Chromebook Plus but it is not required at this time.

  • Standard classrooms and Ed Specialist office spaces. Existing computer labs that require district-approved, course-specific software will remain for instructor and student use.

Site-Specific Info & Workstation Survey

In the weeks leading up to your campus rollout, you will receive an email with site-specific information and a brief teacher workstation survey. The survey will help Technology identify setup needs and any advance accessibility or technical support needs.

Site Visits & Walkthroughs

Before your site's workstation switchover, Technology staff will work with site administration to review teacher workstation survey responses, workstation setups, technical needs, and plans for the switchover.

Advance Device Delivery

• You will receive your Lenovo Chromebook Plus in the weeks prior to your site’s workstation switchover, allowing time to log in, ensure needed files are available, and get familiar with the device.

• The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 is powered by an Intel Core processor and 16 GB of RAM. It effortlessly handles heavy multitasking, 50+ active tabs, and local AI tools without stutter. For connectivity, it features 2 USB-C ports with charging and display support, 2 traditional USB-A, HDMI, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5 mm audio jack.

On-Site Technical Support

Physical setup will take place during scheduled non-instructional breaks. Dedicated, full-time technology staff will be present on campus after the switchover to assist with setup, questions, and troubleshooting.

Formatting of Microsoft Word files has significantly improved when opening files from Google Drive.  Most files created using the desktop version of Word require minimal reformatting when left as a .docx file and when converted to Google Docs. See a math example in this video.

There are three options for accessing and editing Microsoft Word files from a Chromebook:

1. From Drive, double click on a Word file and open it as a Word document in the Docs editor.  This maintains the .docx file type while allowing editing of text and equations.

2. From Drive, open the Word file and convert it to a Google Doc.  

3. Log in to Microsoft365 and open the online version of Microsoft Word.  Open the file and edit as needed.

Video: Open Word Files Online (using an advanced math example)

In addition to the built-in equation editor tool in Google Docs, there are several options available:

• For existing Microsoft Word files, Microsoft 365 online is available to edit existing equations as well as add new equations.

• Staff can install the Equat.io extension which open an editor directly in Google Docs. The editor is built on the Desmos calculator allowing for natural typing to create equations and graphs as well as the option to use LaTex. Once you add an equation, just double click to edit it.

• There is a Google Docs and Google Slides version of MathType available as an add-on.  This works similarly to Equat.io and is the same MathType you are used to in Microsoft Word.  SDUHSD has licenses for MathType for those who prefer this option after the free trial period.

Chromebooks print wirelessly to all district printers.  Options to staple and whole punch are available for all Xerox and Konica Minolta copy machines.  

All classrooms are equipped with the following options to connect to the classroom display:

• HDMI connection with three independent displays or mirroring the Chromebook/external monitor. 

• Vivi wireless presentation.  If you are interested in learning more about using Vivi in the classroom, visit the online Vivi Teacher Guide or the SDUHSD Staff Chromebook User Guide. 

Video: Vivi Walkthrough

Teachers who need DVD playback may request a standalone DVD player from Technology through a tech ticket (or indicate this on the workstation survey). 

An HDMI connection mirrors or extends to the projector to display exactly what is shown on the Chromebook Plus screen, including most streaming services. Select services, including Peacock, do not allow for connecting to a classroom display from any type of device due to their own restrictions.

There is no access to H: Drives, M: Drives, P: Drives, etc. from a Chromebook.  Staff will need to copy any files they may need from their computer's desktop, C: Drive, and H: Drive to their Google Drive prior to switching to a Chromebook.  If you need assistance with this process, please submit a tech ticket.

Microsoft 365 Online is currently available to support transitions from Microsoft Word/PowerPoint files

Alternative district-supported tools are available for instructional needs (ie Formative to support assessments needs,  Kami for PDF annotation, EquatIO extension, MathType add-on for Docs and licenses)

Some existing software, including ExamView, no longer supports installation of the desktop app and no longer supplies security updates. As a result, the program cannot be installed on any district devices.

Chromebooks will be distributed with sub folders and classroom keys.

Solution: When you click to share your screen, be sure to check the box in the pop-up window to "Share System Audio"

Solution: Mute the speakers on your Chromebook.  

Explanation: The audio controls for the Chromebook and those for Vivi are completely separate.  To adjust the volume of the classroom speakers, use the controls for your projector (wall panel or remote, depending on your classroom), the volume control in Vivi, and the volume control in the player you are accessing (YouTube, Spotify, etc.)

Solution: Open the settings on the Chromebook (Click the clock, then gear wheel).  Click "Device", then choose "Display".  Click and drag the boxes that represent each screen so that they are in the correct order.