Tech Equity 1:1 Take Home Program FAQs
What if my student has their own laptop or Chromebook?
Students may only use a district Chromebook during class time. The district has gone to great lengths to ensure that these laptops have all of the system/network configurations, digital resources, and local support in place to serve our district classrooms in the best possible way. We can only guarantee the same experience on district-owned devices at this time.
Does every student have to receive a Chromebook?
No, parents can choose to not accept a District-provided device. Parents who choose to have their students use their own device at home, rather than receive a district-issued device, may do so. Please note many of our classroom teachers use web-based programs, and there may be some software limitations due to licensing restrictions which could impact the performance of a personal device.
What if the Chromebook is broken or damaged?
Unexpected problems may occur with the devices which are not the fault of the user (computer crashes, faulty hardware, software errors, etc.).Lennox School District Tech Support is available at each school, during designated hours, to assist students with getting such issues resolved as rapidly as possible. The site technicians will do their very best to repair devices within 3-5 school days. If a device is not repairable, the student's device will be replaced with a like device as quickly as possible.
Will parents have a financial responsibility?
Yes, while Lennox School District is providing insurance on all the devices, the insurance only covers normal wear and tear and stolen devices. Parents will be responsible for the cost of the Chromebook replacement if the student loses the Chromebook or intentionally damages the device. If the device is lost or stolen (i.e. stolen from an unattended/unlocked car), the parent/guardian will pay $50 (20% of the replacement cost). If the power cord is lost or stolen, the parent/guardian will pay $15.00 towards replacement or replace the power cord.
Can parents repair Chromebooks?
No, Only the Lennox Technology Department is authorized to make repairs or alterations to any Chromebook including software or user accounts. Malfunctioning, damaged, lost, or stolen equipment must be immediately reported to a District teacher or administrator.
What if the Chromebook is stolen?
Lost or stolen equipment must be immediately reported to a District teacher or administrator. In addition, the parent/guardian must file a police report and submit it to [email protected]
If any student or parent becomes aware of any security problem (such as any compromise of the confidentiality of any login or account information) or misuse of the Equipment, he/she shall immediately report such information to their teacher or administrator.
How do we ensure these Chromebooks aren't contributing to too much screen time for students?
The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds us, "All children and teens need adequate sleep (8-12 hours, depending on age), physical activity (1 hour), and time away from media. Designate media-free times together (e.g., family dinner) and media-free zones (e.g., bedrooms). Children should not sleep with devices in their bedrooms, including TVs, computers, and smartphones.
How can I ensure my student is practicing safe internet browsing?
The web filtering provided on Chromebooks is consistent with both Federal regulations (CIPA), as well as current district standards and sites considered unsafe to visit. Lennox School District uses a tool for website filtering. The web filtering categories currently blocked include some of the following:
- Non-educational games
- Social media
- Guns and weapons
- Adult content
- Porn/nudity/child porn
- Violence and Hate
- Gambling
- Terrorism/Radicalization
All computers/devices on the district’s network are subject to the web filter. As Chromebooks travel home with students, there is programming on them that forces them to utilize the district’s filter when not on the district’s network (i.e. at home, Starbucks). Parents/guardians are also key partners in monitoring and keeping students safe online. However, please note, that although these devices will be filtered, and are safer than using a personal device, it is still possible that objectionable content can slip through the filters.
Can I use my Chromebook at home to listen to music, play games, or watch movies?
Listening to music, watching movies, and playing games on your device at home is allowed if the content is school and age-appropriate and you have permission from your parent/guardian.