Why has CRLS shifted to a 1:1 device to student model?
CRLS Connects is a comprehensive program at CRLS that aims to provide support and access to digital resources for all students and teachers. The 1:1 school-issued device model ensures that all students have access to technology tools both in and out of school to support 21st century learning.
How was the Chromebook selected as the device?
Chromebooks were selected as the student device for a variety of reasons, including successful implementation in classrooms across the district in grades 3-12. They also align with the district use of the G Suite for Education and other online tools and resources. Chromebooks have a fast boot up time of 8 seconds which minimizes loss of instructional time, coupled with a battery life that exceeds the length of the school day.
Who is getting a Chromebook?
All students entering 9th grade will be receiving new Chromebooks, Acer C771 model. Current 10th, 11th, and 12th graders will continue to use their Chromebooks, and any students new to CRLS in grades 10-12 will receive Chromebook devices.
What happens if the student leaves CRLS?
The Chromebook is property of CPS and must be returned to the school.
My student already has a laptop, can they bring that to school instead?
Students will no longer be able to use their own devices at school. They will be asked to use the school-issued Chromebook at school. This is to ensure a standard model of student technology in the classroom for teacher planning, technical support, and alignment to educational resources. Assisting students with different operating systems and technical needs is not a good use of class time. In addition, public WiFi is only available in the Main Cafeteria, Media Cafeteria, and the Pearl K. Wise Library.
How will the technology needs of specific classes, such as graphic design or computer science, be met?
There are a handful of courses with more specific technology needs associated with them. Teachers work directly with their classes to ensure access to appropriate devices.
Do they take it home? Do they keep it over the summer? How long are they keeping it?
The Chromebook is issued to the student for both in school and out of school use for their duration as a student at CRLS. This includes overnight, weekends, school vacations, and summer. For this reason, it is the responsibility of the student to care for the Chromebook to ensure access to the device daily.
Does a case come with the device?
Yes. Each student will receive a Chromebook, charger, and hard shell protective case. Upon receipt, three components will be labeled and they will be recorded in the inventory.
Can I put stickers on my Chromebook?
No. The Chromebook is loaned to the student during their enrollment at CRLS. Stickers, decals, or any other markings are considered vandalism of school property.
Do students need to bring the Chromebook to school every day?
Yes. Although they may not use it every day in each class, it is likely that they will need access to online resources on a daily basis. It is also a good habit to set up a routine to charge the Chromebook each night and bring it to school each day prepared for use.
What if my child loses it?
Please immediately report any lost or stolen Chromebooks to CRLS Security at 617.349.6772, and be sure to provide your student’s name, grade, and Learning Community. You can also email
[email protected] and
[email protected] to report online. Students may also visit the Falcon Fixers Student HelpDesk in the CRLS to report lost or stolen Chromebooks.
What if my child damages it?
Any damaged Chromebook should be brought to the Falcon Fixers Student HelpDesk in the CRLS Library, and reported via email at
[email protected].
What if my student is having technology troubleshooting issues?
Students with technology issues should visit the Falcon Fixers Student HelpDesk in the CRLS Library, before school, during Lunch, or after school, or during class time with a pass. For technology troubleshooting issues outside of the school day, please have students email
[email protected] with their issue.
How can I access my CPS Google Drive files when I am offline?
You can access your Google Drive files in Chrome when you are offline by using the
Google Docs Offline Chrome extension. Follow
these instructions, or watch
this short video to learn how.
What else can my student do with a Chromebook?
Students can follow
this collection of Chromebook tutorial videos made by CRLS to help them get started using their devices.