Question:
Please help me understand why the RLS middle school does not allow students to charge their Chromebooks in class? My child is being sent to the Library to swap a computer and miss teaching time because of some random policy and desire to make kids more responsible. The Chromebook was assigned to my child, i.e., I didn't ask for it, and while minimal, it is my PG&E bill that is impacted. Sounds as if the school should plan to shoulder the burden of charging their school-issued device. What about families who are living paycheck to paycheck? Also, I have heard the high school allows kids to charge in class - why is it different at the middle school?
Response:
To address the concerns shared, we reviewed the 24/25 Technology Agreement between families/students and SHUSD. We have listed the components in that document that are relevant to your questions.
General Policies
- Students are responsible for bringing their Chromebooks fully charged to all classes each day.
- Students and their families are responsible for the proper care and safeguarding of Chromebooks, which includes the reasonable prevention of damage.
- Students must submit their Chromebooks to teachers or administrators for inspection at any time.
Forgetting Your Chromebook
- Students are expected to bring their Chromebooks to school every day fully charged and ready to be used.
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
- Support students in bringing their Chromebooks to school fully charged each day.
- Students and their families are responsible for the proper care and safeguarding of the Chromebooks, which includes the reasonable prevention of damage.
Protecting & Storing Your Chromebook
- Student Chromebooks will be labeled in the manner specified by each school site. Students will be instructed in site-specific protocols for establishing secure passwords. When students are not using their Chromebooks, they should be stored safely. Nothing should be placed on top of the Chromebook. Chromebooks should not be stored in vehicles. Chromebooks may be stored with the Library Media Specialist at the end of the day should the student or student’s parents/guardians choose to do so.
Many teachers allow students to charge their Chromebooks during class. Those who do not comply with the SHUSD Technology Agreement, and at times, this is for safety reasons. Some classrooms are more functionally appropriate for charging cords, while others would create a safety concern.
I’ll share that this practice is under discussion at RLS, and they remain open to feedback as they consider their school rules. That said, at this time, RLS is compliant with the approved technology agreement.
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