1. Chromebook Carts
Kamiak High School

2. What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a laptop running Chrome OS as its operating system. The devices are designed to be used primarily while connected to the Internet, with most applications and data residing "in the cloud". A Chromebook is an example of a thin client. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chromebook Chromebooks are also called "cloudbooks" because the owner's applications, videos, image files and documents are stored remotely on virtual servers.
Important to know:
This is not a traditional computer with a hard drive for storage of files and program data. Runs off of the internet browser, Chrome. Requires internet access to function. Cannot install software – so programs must be web based.

3. Device Specific Features
No file storage on the device - cloud only
No printing from Chromebooks
Not a computer = no loading of software
Not touchscreen 
One browser - Chrome
Students cannot change their password on this device
Lower cost = more devices
Fast set up = ready to use now
Battery life rated at 8-10 hours
No printing = less paper used
Fast login and start up times
Office software available online via Office 365
Google Apps for Education also available
Printing can still happen using desktop computers in the school. Student files saved on OneDrive or Google Drive are accessible from desktop computers as well as the Chromebooks.
No stylus due to the fact that they are not touchscreen devices
Chrome being the only browser isn’t that big of a negative – it just means that if they find a site they want to use, they should test it in the Chrome browser before using with students – they won’t have the fall back option of ‘try another browser’

4. Cart Storage Anthro Carts with capacity for 33
Front access with padlock for security
Tub of headphones for each cart
Back panel locked for repair tech access only
Heavy when fully loaded – should only be moved by staff members
Toggle switch on back must be set to ‘charge tablets’ not outlets
Middle school carts have 30 tablets
High school carts have 33
One extra charging cable will be provided and kept with school librarian.

5. Keys to Success: Charging
Chromebooks will chart in their carts
Carts cycle power in 15 minute intervals
Must be plugged in EVERY NIGHT!
Must be plugged into designated outlet
Powerstrips can cause charging failure and are not recommended
Unplug the cart before moving!
Why the home classroom? Some of our buildings (or even parts of buildings) in the district have more circuitry challenges than others. Home classroom locations have been verified by facilities staff to have enough power to charge the devices. Some classrooms, or even some walls in some classrooms do not have power to charge the devices.
Knowing the power cycle is important – if you have low batteries, it will take twice as long to charge as you might think. An hour of charging on the cart really only delivers 30 minutes of charge time to each device.

6. Keys to Success: Scheduling
Plan ahead for tablet usage
Include time in your planning for:
Moving the cart into and out of your classroom
Passing out and return of devices (at least 5 minutes each)
Our building will be using SharePoint calendars.
Carts are not “owned” by the staff member who houses the cart.
Always report missing or broken items right away!

7. Keys to Success: Planning
Begin with your Learning Target – then find a tool
Login to a Chromebook and test the activity
Have a student (TA?) test any webpage links you might want to use to be sure they work for students.
Office 365 and Google Apps will give you many of the document types you need
The web store found on the launcher will allow you to search for apps

8. Keys to Success: Vigilance
Assign students to devices by number – require students to use the same device every time
Consider lab-type set ups where you can see all of the student screens when using the tablets
The classroom teacher is responsible for ensuring that educational technology used in class is used for appropriate purposes.
Preview all websites/apps/videos and other digital resources before assigning them to students
Set clear activity guidelines
Provide links to websites expected to be used by students
Using the same device every time makes it easier to track down for damage or other shenangins.
It also creates more of a sense of ownership – take care of this device, as you will use this one every time.

9. Keys to Success: Security
Set up a routine for returning tablets to the cart
Double check that all tablets are accounted for
Double check that all have power cords firmly seated
When unattended, use the padlock to lock the devices in the cart
The cart must be locked every day
Extra tips:
Fire Alarm? Lock classroom door.
We did lose tablets to theft by students at the elementary level. In all cases, the cart was not checked prior to students leaving the classroom, or the tablets were not collected in the cart due to not enough time being left to pack up at the conclusion of the activity.

10. Notes:
If you and/or your students have not already changed your district password, you MUST do so on a windows computer at school before using the Chromebooks. Report all success stories and challenges to the Cart Herders and/or Gail. If you have a broken or defective Chromebook complete a Computer Work Order at And send the Chromebook to the library with a note attached and the issue to be resolved. .
If they haven’t changed their password, they will not be synced up with