Frequently Asked Questions

The Chromebook is just like any other school supply. They are expected to have it in class everyday. If for some reason they do not have theirs on any particular day it will be up to the teacher to decide how they will handle that.

We are self- insuring and will cover the device against accidental damage, theft, fire, flood, natural disasters, power surges, and/or vandalism not done by the student. We will provide full replacement cost coverage, and the Chromebook is protected for the any of the causes listed above on and off school grounds.

Even though we are self-insuring, you are responsible for the well being of the Chromebook. If the Chromebook damaged is accidental or stolen and we repair/replace the Chromebook your child will still have all privileges. If the district has to cover the cost of repair/replacement a second time, then the child will no longer be allowed to use the Chromebook after school hours. The device will remain secured on school premises.

Even though we hope this never happens, the consequences for each offense will be determined by the Administrator. See question 2 for additional details.

We do not have the capabilities to charge 700+ Chromebooks everyday. The students should charge their Chromebooks at home and that charge should last throughout the day. 

Our initial 1:1 program requires that all students carry with them and use the District-standard Chromebook at school for a number of reasons, including the following:

By providing a consistent device for every student, we can ensure that all students have the same applications and capabilities to complete their schoolwork, as well as to learn how to use the technology both in class and from their peers.

Consistent technology enables teachers to plan and teach to a uniform learning environment and allows district staff to provide effective on-campus support should a problem arise - something that we would be unable to provide in a free-for-all technology environment.

The new state online assessments require specific "secure" software that we are unable to install on personal computers. We can "push" out software and updates to District Chromebooks as needed, which we will be unable to do for personal computers.

Yes. RCSD is currently using a cloud based solution from iBoss.com which will filter students’ web browsing, when the Chromebook is using the schools’ wifi. However, because nothing in the technology field is ever 100% guaranteed, we recommended parents take an involved role in their child’s use of the device and the Internet.

We believe access to appropriate educational technology is increasingly becoming an integral part of the learning environment. However, if you feel that this is not the right solution for your student, we ask that parents/guardians inform their school administrator as soon as possible so that alternative accommodations can be discussed.

Not yet. 

A Chromebook is a laptop running Chrome OS as its operating system. Chromebooks are designed to be used primarily while connected to the Internet and integrate with Google Apps for Education, the collaborative learning environment used by Redwood City School District teachers and students.

 Chromebooks give students, teachers, and administrators a simple solution for fast, intuitive, and easy-to-manage computing. Chromebooks provide access to the web's education and collaboration resources, as well as offer centralized management and low total cost of ownership. Chromebooks offer durable and affordable access to learning resources for all students.

The district is currently issuing the Dell 11 Touchscreen Chromebook to students.

We will make every effort to give students back the same Chromebook each year. But students will not be guaranteed the same Chromebook.

Yes, all of the Chromebooks will have a protective case. These cases are made to keep the Chromebooks safe and the case clean. Even though they have a protective case the student will still have to be careful and responsible. The case will help prevent mishaps but are not perfect and student responsibility still will play a main role in the safety of the Chromebook. The students will be allowed to personalize their chromebook cases. 

You will receive a power cord and case (see question 11 for more details about the case).

Not yet.

The Chromebook is intended for students to complete homework. However, parents may use the Chromebook to check students grades and to communication with the school. 

We have headphones for student use. However, recommend that students buy headphones that are comfortable for them.

Students do not have access with their RCSD account to add apps and music. They may listen to music on a website that is not blocked by the district.

Not yet.

Contact the school office and make an appointment with the school’s Technology Coach.

No. The chromebook will not replace the teacher or traditional hands-on activities that also make learning fun and relevant. Teachers will carefully plan lessons that make appropriate use of technology and will continue to provide exceptional teaching and learning opportunities for students. Just as your student doesn't use a pencil for every learning activity at Union School District, neither will they use the chromebook for every learning activity.

No, students will continue to have textbooks; however, they can expect fewer textbooks in upcoming years as Redwood City School District expands its implementation of 1:1. Some students may be enrolled in courses that continue to utilize textbooks to support classroom instruction. It is important to note that the curriculum is not dictated by the textbook. The textbook is one of many resources used to deliver the curriculum.