The 1:1 Chromebook Initiative began at Clear Creek Middle School and has made its way to Gilmer High.
GHS principle Carla Foley made the announcement last Thursday, and the plan is to start issuing devices next month.
Chromebooks are laptop computers that use a Linux-based Chrome operating system. Rather than depend on large internal storage, they rely on online cloud storage where information can be accessed as long as one has an internet connection.
The Chromebooks are used as a teaching tool, and students and teachers are able to communicate, and classwork can be assigned and turned in online.
“Gilmer High School is excited to announce that we will be participating in a 1:1 Chromebook Initiative,” Foley said in an email to parents. “What this means for your child, is that they will now have access to their own, school-issued device throughout the school day, as well as at home to assist with homework, projects, etc. While we know that some students do not have access to Wi-Fi at home, there are many offline assignments that students can still complete. In addition, by having their own device, students can communicate with their teachers and complete work when they are absent.”
Foley noted that school-issued Chromebooks are the only acceptable computing devices permitted on school grounds.
“Students will not be allowed to bring their own laptop/tablet devices if you choose to not allow your child to have a school-issued device,” she said. “This is because all devices are programmed for school use and testing platforms. In addition, if you choose for your child to not be issued a Chromebook, we cannot guarantee that one will always be available for your child to use at school.”
Students will be responsible for damages to the devices. That is currently the case as well when devices are damaged during the school day.
“If damages do occur, we will offer repair costs at a discounted price if a student has a school-issued device,” she said. “Additionally, students will be issued a sturdy case to add additional protection to the Chromebook as it is carried back and forth between home and school.”
The Chromebooks will cost $200 apiece and Foley noted, “We are using some local SPLOST funds, as well as Charter System Funds.”
Students who wish to participate in the program will be issued a device in March and they will turn it in at the end of the school year. They will be issued the same device in the fall and throughout their time at GHS.
A parent meeting was held in the GHS theater at press deadline to answer questions concerning the initiative.
“If after the parent meeting, you wish for your child to opt-out of participation in the 1:1 Chromebook Initiative, an opt-out letter will be provided upon your request,” Foley said.