What is a Chromebook? A Chromebook is a laptop that runs Chrome OS as its operating system. Chromebooks are designed to be used while connected to the Internet with access to Google Apps For Education, which is a platform for students and teachers to work collaboratively using docs, forms, email, slides, and much more.
Why can't my student(s) use their own personal device at school instead of the Dell Chromebook? SVUSD requires students to use the Dell Chromebook for many reasons: 1. By providing students with the same device, we can ensure that every student has the same access to the same applications to complete their assignments. 2. Consistent technology allows teachers to plan lessons and teach in a uniform technology environment, and our IT department will be able to provide support for all devices, something we can't offer in a BYOT environment. 3. Currently, SVUSD is not able to manage non-district devices, which means we are unable to push certain applications and settings needed for students to access assignments and lessons.
4. SVUSD has a specific web filter that is pushed out to our District owned Chromebooks and ensures that all internet content is filtered whether the student is at school or home. This web filter also has a built in Classroom Learning System our teachers use to facilitate learning with the Chromebooks in the classroom. Students will not be able to obtain this feature on their own device.
Will Chromebooks be used for everything? No, Chromebooks will not replace teachers or hands on activities that happen inside and outside the classroom. Use of Chromebooks will allow our students to access more 21st century learning skills: Collaboration, Creativity, Communication, Critical Thinking.
How will students be prevented from accessing inappropriate content online? Internet filtering software will be utilized on all Chromebooks whether they are used at home or school. However, it is important to recognize that there is no web filter that can block all inappropriate content at all times. It is important to ensure that students are acting responsibly on their device which requires school staff and parents to periodically "look over the shoulder" and monitor our students appropriate use.
Will Chromebooks be turned in over vacations and summer breaks? No, students will not be turning in their devices over vacations and summer breaks. Senior students will turn in their device at the end of the school year.
Can students access their school data from a personal computer? Yes, Google Apps For Education can be accessed from anywhere on any device as long as there is an Internet connection. Students simply sign into their Google account and all their work is stored and managed there.
What should we do if the Chromebook is lost or stolen? The Chromebook is issued as curricular material, similar to a text book. proper care and protection of the Chromebook is the responsibility of the student and their parent/guardian. Failure to properly care for the Chromebook could result in out-of-pocket costs. All monies owed must be paid in full before a Chromebook is issued.
If a Chromebook is lost, a replacement fee of $210 will need to be paid in full before another Chromebook is issued.
If a Chromebook is stolen, a police report must be made to the local police department before another Chromebook will be issued. Please be advised, when making a police report, be sure to notify the police department that the device is property of the Sonoma Valley Unified School District.
Can Chromebooks be left at school? Chromebooks cannot be left at school. There is no facility available for students to leave their Chromebook in a safe place where it can charge overnight. Students are responsible for taking their Chromebook home every day and charging their device so it will be ready for use at school the next day.
Will Chromebooks be password protected? Yes, all students will have a username and password for their Chromebook. This username and password will also be used for their Google accounts. It is important that students do not share this information with others except for their teachers and parents.
Will students be able to download apps from the Google App store? No, students will not be able to purchase or download Apps for their device unless it is an App that is endorsed by SVUSD for use at school and home. The IT department will block devices from purchasing and downloading certain Apps.
