Student/Parent Device Handbook

Chromebook and iPad Devices

Atlanta Public Schools is committed to providing every student with the tools they need to succeed in a digital world. District-issued Chromebooks and iPads support equitable learning opportunities by ensuring all students can participate in modem, technology-rich instruction at school and at home. These devices are tailored to support APS curriculum and provide a consistent, safe, and engaging learning experience. Each device comes preloaded with essential educational tools, secure browsing features, and access to classroom resources that promote college and career readiness.

Benefits of the APS device program include access to Google Workspace for class assignments and collaboration, participation in personalized real-time learning environments. engagement with digital citizenship and responsible internet use, and opportunities to explore STEM, literacy, and creative applications.

Student Device Agreement and Parent Acknowledgement:

Before a student is allowed to take a district-issued Chromebook home, parents and guardians must complete and submit the Student Device Agreement Parent Acknowledgement Form, and the student must complete the district’s Digital Citizenship Curriculum. The official form is available in the Infinite Campus Parent Portal.

All students must comply with APS policies related to responsible technology use, including Policy IFBGA (Responsible Use of the Enterprise Network), Policy JD (Student Code of Conduct), and Policy JS (Student Fines. Fees. and Charges). Students are expected to use devices responsibly at all times, on and off school property. Inappropriate use, tampering, or access to prohibited content may result in disciplinary or legal consequences.

Device Use

The Chromebook is an educational tool and shall only be used in that capacity. Once issued, the student and consenting parent or guardian are responsible for the Chromebook at all times.

• The student is the only authorized user of his or her assigned Chromebook. Students may never share or trade computers with another student.
• District-applied labels, asset tags. and other identifiers must not be removed.
• Chromebooks must be brought to school daily, fully charged.
• Chromebooks are the property of Atlanta Public Schools (APS). If a student stops attending APS, the Chromebook must be returned to the last enrolled APS school immediately or the student will be in possession of stolen property.

Device Care

Students and families share responsibility for keeping district-issued devices in good working order. Proper care extends device life and helps avoid repair charges.

• Use the Chromebook on a flat, stable surface.
• Never use liquid cleaners such as Windex on the Chromebook screen. Use a dry, soft lint-free or microfiber cloth, or pre-moistened cleaning tissues designed for electronics.
• Keep all food and drinks away from the Chromebook.
• Avoid placing or dropping heavy objects on top of the Chromebook.
• Chromebook lids should always be closed and tightly secured when moving. Do not carry the Chromebook while the screen is open.
• Do not carry the Chromebook by the screen or by the comer of the device.
• Do not place anything on the keyboard before closing the lid.
• nsert and remove the power adapter in the power port with care every time.

Device Transport and Home Use

• If carrying the Chromebook in a backpack, avoid sharp objects and avoid throwing or leaving the backpack where it can be accidentally kicked.
• Keep all food and drinks away from the Chromebook.
• Do not leave the Chromebook in an automobile. Computers cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold and may become damaged.
• Failing to bring the Chromebook to class daily will result in the inability to participate in classwork, homework, and projects.

Privacy

Students should not expect privacy when using a district-issued device. APS staff may inspect, monitor, and retrieve information stored on devices at any time. Devices are equipped with GPS tracking and remote management systems for lost or stolen device recovery and usage monitoring.

APS complies with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) requirements for student data protection.

Device Take-Home Opt-Out Option

All students will be allowed to take their district-issued Chromebook home each day to support continued learning beyond the classroom. Parents and guardians who do not want their child to bring the Chromebook home may opt out on the Student Device Agreement Parent Acknowledgement Form. If the family opts out, the child will use the Chromebook only during school hours, and the family acknowledges responsibility for providing a device at home for district-designated Extended Leaming Days.

Theft, Loss, and Return of Devices

Theft

If a district-issued device is stolen, a police report must be filed within 5 days, and a copy of the report must be submitted to the school administrator.

Returning the Device

Devices must be returned at the end of the school year or upon student withdrawal, transfer, or expulsion from Atlanta Public Schools. Students must return all accessories including the charger and protective case. Failure to return the device and accessories will result in fees and may lead to a hold on report cards, diplomas, or certificates of progress.

Failure to Return

Students who do not return their device or accessories and do not report them as lost or stolen will be charged the full replacement cost.

Fines for Device Damage, Loss, or Theft

Families are financially responsible for damages to or loss of the Chromebook or its accessories while issued to a student.

• Lost or Stolen Chromebook: Up to $500
• Damaged Chromebook: Up to $270
• Lost or Damaged Charger or Case: $30 each