Chromebook Care and Maintenance

General
The Chromebook is the property of The Oakland Public Schools and all users will follow all rules and regulations outlined on this website, Oakland's Use of Technology Policy, and the Network User Contract for this technology. Students are responsible for the general care of the Chromebook and two-part charger they have been issued by the school.

• Only labels or stickers approved by the school may be applied to the Chromebook.
• Cords and cables must be inserted carefully into the Chromebook to prevent damage. 
• Chromebooks and cases must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers or labels that are not the property of The Oakland Public Schools. 
• Chromebooks must never be left unattended.
• Keep the Chromebook away from food, drinks and pets. It is recommended that the Chromebook not be used in the cafeteria during lunch.

Battery
Students are responsible for keeping their Chromebook’s battery fully charged for school each day.

• Fully charged Chromebook batteries will typically accommodate eight hours of use.
• Avoid charging the Chromebook overnight. Once the Chromebook is fully charged, remove it from the charger.
• Chromebooks should never be left in a hot car or similar environment, damage to the battery will result.

Carrying/Cases
The protective cases provided with Chromebooks have sufficient padding to protect the Chromebook from normal wear and tear and provide a suitable means for carrying the device in and out of school.

• Chromebooks should never be removed from their protective cases.
• Chromebook cases furnished by the school must be returned with only normal wear and no alterations to avoid paying a replacement fee ($30).

Screen Care
The Chromebook screens can be damaged if subjected to rough treatment. The screens are particularly sensitive to damage from excessive pressure. 

• A solution of white vinegar and water sprayed onto a soft cloth can be used to clean the screen. Never spray anything directly on the Chromebook.
• Do not lean on the top of the Chromebook when it is closed. 
• Do not place anything near the Chromebook that could put pressure on the screen. 
• Do not place anything in the carrying case that will press against the cover.
• Do not “bump” the Chromebook against lockers, walls, car doors, floors, etc. as it will eventually break the screen.
• Do not carry the Chromebook by the screen/display.

Protecting/Storing
Students are encouraged to take their Chromebooks home every day after school, regardless of whether or not they are needed. Chromebooks should never be stored in a vehicle, especially in hot weather.

Under no circumstances should Chromebooks be left unattended. Unattended areas include the school grounds, lunchroom, computer labs, locker rooms, unlocked classrooms, bathrooms, hallways, etc. Any Chromebook left in these areas is in danger of being stolen. If an Chromebook is found in an unattended area, it will be taken to the main office.

Lost/Damaged/Stolen 
 

Repairs • Unexpected problems may occur with the Chromebooks that are not the fault of the user. The District’s Supervisor of Technology and Technology Coordinator, along with the building's respective technology staff, will assist students with resolving these issues. District-owned Chromebooks should never be taken to an outside computer service for any type of repairs or maintenance. Taking a Chromebook to an outside vendor will result in loss of Chromebook privileges.

Loaner Chromebooks • Temporary replacement Chromebooks (loaners) are available so learning is not disrupted by the repair process. Students are responsible for the care of the loaner Chromebook while it is issued to them. The same rules and guidelines apply to loaner Chromebooks.

Accident vs. Negligence • Accidents do happen. There is a difference, however, between an accident and negligence. All reports of Chromebook damage will be investigated by the school. If the damage is deemed to be intentional or negligent on the part of the student, the student may be subject to consequences based on our Code of Conduct.

Reporting • Students are responsible for the Chromebook and all accessories they have been issued. Chromebooks in need of repair must be reported to the Valley Middle School Main Office as soon as possible (same day or next day they are in school). Failure to report damage may result in consequences based on our Code of Conduct..

*Under no circumstances should a damaged Chromebook be brought to an outside vendor to repair.