Basics

What is a Chromebook?

A: Chromebooks are laptops designed around the Google Chrome OS, and are built for ease of use, security, and manageability. Apps and extensions can be installed, but only as approved by the district. In addition, while primarily an Internet connected device, each Chromebook has local storage for documents and assignments when internet access is not available.

What grades will be receiving a Chromebook?

A: The district currently provides Chromebooks for Grades 5-12.

How is the district funding this implementation?

As part of the district's long-term Technology plan, we have been able to shift from a traditional model of desktop computers in labs to distributed Chromebooks through the careful allocation of district operating budgets. By maintaining existing ChromeBooks we have throughout our schools for 5th, 7th, 8th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Grade students, and purchasing new ChromeBooks for 6th and 9th Grade students, we are able to deploy a sustainable 1 to 1 program that we can afford into the future. Our improved network infrastructure, made possible through bond issues, and appropriate staffing adjustments, made possible through past tax allocations, allow us to support a technology intensive program within our schools. None of this would be possible without the support of our voters. Thank you!

Will my Chromebook be brand new?

New Chromebooks are purchased every year for incoming 6th and 9th Grade students. For students transferring into one of our schools, we make every effort to provide a device matching the model handed out to your grade level, and would only be a new device if you are a 6th or 9th Grade student. Our Technology Staff works hard to maintain all of our devices at their highest level, so all of the same insurance policies and repair costs apply to every Chromebook, regardless of its age.

Will the district be adapting to meet the needs of students with disabilities?

Fort Zumwalt School District is committed to all students having the tools needed to access their curriculum. The devices that students with disabilities use will be determined by their Individualized Education Program (IEP). For most students this will be a Chromebook, while for others it might be a specialized device that allows for access and meets the unique needs of the student. Devices will not be removed and replaced without consideration given to each individual situation. In the case where a Chromebook is not the appropriate electronic device another type of device will be considered to assist the student in accessing the curriculum.