Proper Chromebook care starts with active classroom monitoring. Studentsβespecially younger gradesβmay not fully understand how fragile these devices can be, and accidental (or intentional) damage can happen quickly.
Keys being pulled off
Key brackets or hinges snapped
Screens cracked or pressure-damaged
Chromebooks being factory-reset through simple keyboard shortcuts
For full details on common damage types and repair costs, please Click Here.
Some students have discovered ways to intentionally factory reset their Chromebooks. When this happens, the device may:
No longer be connected to the school network
Boot up to a "Welcome" screen instead of the login screen
Require re-enrollment into the district system
If you encounter a Chromebook in this state, please click here for instructions on what to do next.
Classroom Chromebooks are intended to remain in the room they are assigned to and should not be taken home or moved between classrooms by students.
Each Chromebook is enrolled into the district system with:
A specific classroom assignment
A specific grade-level configuration
The correct apps, filters, and settings pushed by our Digital Education Coordinators
When Chromebooks leave the room theyβre assigned to, it becomes much harder for the Technology Department to:
Troubleshoot issues
Identify network or login problems
Deliver the proper updates and settings
Ensure the device receives the correct grade-level apps
Keeping Chromebooks in their assigned classroom ensures they function correctly and receive all necessary updates.
For more information on how devices are assigned and managed, please click here.
Food and beverages should never be used around Chromebooks. Even a small spill can cause:
Sticky or unresponsive keys
Shorted-out internal components
Permanent damage that may require full device replacement
If a Chromebook is damaged by liquid, repair charges may apply.
For more information about Chromebook damages and repair costs, click here.
Cords, cables, and removable storage devices must be inserted slowly and carefully. Chromebooks are durable for learning, but ports and connectors can be easily damaged if forced.
Common issues weβve seen include:
Headphone jacks breaking off inside the auxiliary port
Bent or damaged USB ports from forcing cables in the wrong orientation
Broken charging connectors when Chromebooks are plugged in quickly or without paying attention
Encourage students to take a moment to line up the connector and gently plug it in.
Chromebooks should always be carried by the base, whether the screen is open or the device is fully closed.
Carrying a Chromebook by the screen puts stress on the hinges and increases the chance of dropping it.
We frequently see Chromebooks sent in for repair due to:
Broken screens
Damaged hinges
Internal components loosened from falls
A secure grip on the bottom half of the device helps prevent these accidents.
Stacking Chromebooks may seem convenient, but it leads to screen pressure damage.
Too much weight on the top device can cause:
Hairline cracks
Pressure spots
Full screen failure
Always store Chromebooks side-by-side, never on top of one another.
Before closing a Chromebook, make sure the keyboard is completely clear.
Items left on the keyboard β such as:
Pens
Pencils
Notebooks
Earbuds
Paperclips
β can exert pressure on the screen when the lid is closed, causing cracks, lines, or permanent display damage.
To keep classroom devices secure and prevent loss, itβs important to ensure all Chromebooks are returned, accounted for, and stored properly at the end of each period or school day.
Take a moment to confirm that every Chromebook has been placed back in the cart and is plugged in (if applicable).
A quick visual check helps prevent devices from being left behind in:
Desks
Backpacks
Hallways
Other classrooms
This simple step saves valuable time and prevents devices from going missing.
If you notice that a Chromebook is not in the cart:
Do not wait β contact the Technology Department right away.
We can use district tools to help locate its last known location or determine whether it has been logged in elsewhere.
Prompt reporting increases the likelihood of recovering the device quickly.
When Chromebooks are not in use:
Lock the cart if it has a functioning lock
If the cart cannot be locked, ensure the classroom door is locked when the teacher is not present
This helps deter accidental damage and unauthorized use, and keeps all devices safe.
We truly appreciate your support in keeping Chromebooks and classroom equipment safe, organized, and ready for learning. π»β¨
If you ever notice damage, have questions, or need assistance, simply Request a Technology Specialistβweβre always here to help!