General Information
Can my child just use a computer/device that we own as a family, or do they have to use the district-provided device?
Students will be required to use their district-provided device. This ensures all students can access the required materials and assignments, and makes it easier for teachers to support students in their learning.
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a device meant primarily for working with Internet based resources. It is fast and light, constantly updated and quick to power on. It has a 6-8 hour battery and connects with Google’s suite of applications which are used by every student and staff member in the district. Our devices will also allow students to write with a digital pencil on the screen in order to complete and turn in homework directly from their device. Check out these short videos to better understand the technology we are using: What is Google Chrome OS? | Introducing the Chromebook
Will students be using the same device for more than one year?
Generally, older students (grades 6-12) will use the same Chromebook from year to year. Younger students (grades 2-5) will have a device assigned to them though their classroom and may receive a different device each year. Chromebooks are scheduled to be on a 3 year replacement cycle. Our youngest learners (K-1) will have access to iPads in the classrooms to support learning.
What devices will my student receive?
Students in grades 6-12 will receive a Chromebook and a charger. These devices fully integrate with Schoology and allow students to complete many different types of assignments directly on their Chromebook.
Are there additional accessories I should buy?
Some students (grades 6-12) may wish to purchase a digitizer pen for use with the Chromebook. These can be purchased through the district for $30. Families may also wish to purchase headphones for use at school and add a mouse, but most find the trackpad to be adequate. You'll need to purchase these items on your own.
What should I do if my Chromebook breaks or gets lost?
Students are responsible for the general care of the Chromebook they have been issued by the school. Report the damage/loss to your media center and/or the technology department immediately.
Will students take the devices home?
Yes, students will carry the devices home in their case in order to do homework. It is expected that students in grades 6-12 will take their devices home regularly. Students in grades 2-5 will primarily keep their devices at school; devices will be sent home at specific times for specific purposes that will be communicated to parents in advance.
Will students keep the Chromebooks over breaks?
Students will keep the Chromebooks over all breaks in grades 6-12. Devices will be sent home selectively in grades 2-5.
Is the information on a Chromebook or in Google Apps for Education private (will Google sell or share our information)?
Data saved in Google Apps for Education is private and secure and is not used or sold in any way. Students do not receive targeted marketing or adds while using Google products within the district's domain. Learn more: The facts about student data privacy in Google Apps for Education and Chromebooks
Technical Support
Who will be responsible for maintenance/IT support on Chromebooks if something goes wrong? (malfunctioning software, virus, etc.)
The Chrome operating system updates automatically. Therefore, students are always running the most updated version of Chrome OS. Students can consult their peers, teachers and the Technology Department for help when needed. The family help-line will continue to operate and can be reached at familyhelp@stillwaterschools.org or 651-351-8404.
Will the school have a "spare pool" in the event a student has to send his/her Chromebook out for repair?
Yes, loaner devices will be available in the Media Center.
Loss, Theft, Damage
Will the Chromebooks be labeled, or marked, in a way that would make it easy for someone to return a lost laptop?
Yes. Chromebooks will be marked with asset tag barcodes. Students will carry their device in a provided case with their name on it.
What happens if a student breaks a Chromebook?
In cases of loss, damage or malfunction, the issue must be reported to the Technology Department. [See Device Fee Schedule]
Infrastructure
Will there be better internet connection within the school building?
Our systems are designed to support a 1-1 initiative. We will continue to boost wifi access in areas as needed.
If a student loses power will there be charging stations?
Students will charge at home and battery life should extend through the day. Power cords can be carried if necessary. Secure charging towers are being installed in secondary media centers and offices where students can leave their device to charge during the day.
Internet Access
Am I required to have internet access at home for use with the Chromebook?
No, you are not required to have internet access at home. However students will have increased access to tools and resources when they are connected to the internet. If families do not have internet access at home, please fill out the online form through PowerSchool.
How will Chrome Web Apps from the Chrome App Store work?
Students have a core suite of apps that are managed centrally by the Technology Department. Teachers are able to push apps to individual students or all of their classes through Google’s Play store for Education (play.google.com/edu).
Acceptable Use of Technology
Are the Chromebooks meant only for school work, or can students go to fun apps/games at home?
School provided hardware and accounts are intended for school-related use. All use of technology is governed by the District’s Policy 524: Student Technology and Internet Access and Acceptable Use
How is the Internet on the Chromebook filtered?
Internet traffic on the Chromebook is subject to the same Acceptable Use Policy restrictions and discipline procedures applied to all other technology infractions. The school’s wifi filters inappropriate content. Additionally, Chromebook devices are equipped with Google Extension filtering that is based on the student’s login. Student’s are expected to login with their district credentials; logging in with non-district credentials will result in filtering bypass and is not allowed.
The best filter is always adult supervision. At home, we encourage parents to work together with their children to monitor access.