How Does it Work
Over the past ten years, Marion Local has implemented a 1 to 1 technology device program for students starting in 5th grade. With the 2020-2021 school year all students in 5th thru 12th grade will have a school issued device. Students will be assessed a yearly $35 technology device fee. This fee will be required for students to receive a device and allow the student the ability to own the device after the established time frame. This fee will be assessed with the student fees at the beginning of every year starting in 5th grade and continue thru 12th grade.
Here is how our 1 to 1 program will work: When the student enters the 5th grade he or she will be assigned a device, charger, and case. The students will keep the same device for the next 4 years. After the 8th grade year the device will be returned to the school. Then, when the student enters the 9th grade he or she will be issued a new device, and that device will follow the student for the next four years. Upon graduation, the student will receive permanent possession of the second device. All devices will be collected at the end of each year for routine maintenance.
The $35 fee will not cover any additional damages or lost devices. Students are expected to keep the device in good working condition. Any intentional or negligent damage will result in fines and possible disciplinary actions. Fines will vary depending on the type of damage. All repairs will be completed by the Marion Local Technology Department. As a parent of a child with a school issued device one thing you can do is randomly check the exterior condition of your child's device. It may help stop future repairs that might be needed on the device. To keep the Chromebook in good working order, some precautionary items are listed below.
- Past experience indicates that screens tend to see the most damage.
- Do not hold an opened device by the screen; hold it using the bottom, keyboard area.
- Do not lean on top of the device when the lid is closed.
- Do not poke the screen with your finger, pencil, or other objects.
- Do not place anything on the inside and then close the lid (even paper can damage the screen).
- Use only a dry, soft cloth to wipe the screen or casing
- Do not put it in a backpack; the weight of other objects can damage it.
- Do not store the device in excessive heat or cold.
- Do not eat or drink around the device. Even crumbs can make a keyboard difficult to use.
- Do not pick at the keys; when damaged, they are nearly impossible to re-attach and makes it difficult to type.
We feel the increased use of computers in education will have a beneficial effect on student learning. We truly want our students to be able to compete in our local economy by utilizing the 1 to 1 program. This move will help engage students in critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. Please feel free to contact me with additional questions.
Michelle Mescher
Technology Coordinator