How do I get help with the Chromebook? First -- let your teacher know. If a Chromebook is lost, damaged or just isn’t working, you will get a replacement after your teacher has filled out a form. Replacements are provided at the Main Office Security desk or the Technology Office.
Why should I get the District’s Chromebook Insurance? Parents can purchase insurance that covers 2 major accidental breakages or lost devices and one replacement charger. Without insurance, students will be charged repair and replacement costs including:
- Broken Screen: $50
- Broken Keyboard: $25
- Replacement charger: $30
- Chromebook Replacement: $300
What is the difference between accidental and intentional damage? An accident is something that is clearly not your fault, like a Chromebook gets knocked off the desk. But if you punch the Chromebook off the desk, that is NOT an accident. Other examples of intentional damage include: Leaving a Chromebook on the floor where it can get stepped on, writing with pen or pencil on the Chromebook, or peeling the rubber feet off the bottom. These are all activities that will cause you to be charged a damage fee.
If I have lost the Chromebook, how can it be found? Retrace your steps and do your best to locate your Chromebook- it’s your responsibility! If you are unable to find it, Chromebooks can be tracked by user and activity on the network. Even if the barcode and serial number are missing, we can retrieve those on the network and from the hard drive. When a Chromebook is missing, it is put in a disabled state, so it can’t be used until it is returned.
How can I fix problems on the Chromebook? When things don’t work right, a “Powerwash” is a good trick. Hold down the Shift, Control, Alt and r keys. Follow the instructions, and when it asks for Wi-Fi, choose GPS GUEST.
What can I do if the Chromebook won’t start up or stay charged?
- Plug it in and let it charge for at least 15 minutes.
- Try a hard restart- hold down escape, refresh and power keys until you see the screen flash. When you see the “insert recovery USB ” message, hold the refresh button and then tap the power button once.
- Make sure it is plugged into an outlet that works and that is not controlled by a light switch.
- Check to make sure the charger isn’t damaged and that it is plugged in all the way in the Chromebook AND the power outlet.
What can I do about my Google account not connecting? Sign out of the Chromebook, then restart it. Also, make sure that Chrome is up to date- Go to settings, About Chrome, check for updates.
I can’t connect to the internet- how can I fix this? First, make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi. At school you should be connected to GPS Wi-Fi. Sign out and restart. Or try performing a Powerwash (see instructions above).
Can I bring my own device? Our District recommends that you use a district issued Chromebook so that you have access to all resources. If you choose to use your own at school, you will connect to the guest network, which is more strictly filtered. In addition, your Google account is monitored no matter what device you use.
Why can’t I play games on the Chromebook? Quite simply, the school issued Chromebook is for School work only. Games are a distraction to your academic success. Game sites also can carry viruses and cause the system to slow down.
