💻 Chromebook Care Tips for Families

As we begin the year, we want to ensure our students have the best experience possible with their school-issued Chromebooks. These devices are essential tools for daily lessons, collaborative projects, and assignments. Devices for students in grades 3-5 will be sent home each day while devices for students in PreK-2 will remain on campus. 

To keep our technology running smoothly and students ready to learn, we’ve put together a quick guide for "Chromebook Success" at home and school.

🔋 The #1 Rule: Charge Every Night!

A student’s Chromebook is just like a textbook or a notebook—they need it to participate in class!

• The Routine: Please help your child establish a "charging station" at home. Plugging the device in every night before bed ensures it has a full battery (which typically lasts 10 hours) for the next school day.

• Be Prepared: Students are expected to bring their fully charged device to school every single day. Loaner devices will only be issued for a district or state mandated test.

🛡️ Pro-Tips for Device Care

Chromebooks are sturdy, but their screens and hinges are sensitive. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:

• Hands Off the Screen: Never pick up the Chromebook by the screen. Always carry it with two hands from the base, and keep the lid closed when moving between rooms.

• The "Clear Zone": Avoid eating or drinking near the device. Small crumbs can jam keys, and spills can cause permanent internal damage.

• Look Before You Close: Before closing the lid, make sure there are no pens, pencils, or earbuds sitting on the keyboard. Closing the lid on even a small object is the leading cause of cracked screens!

• Flat Surfaces Only: Encourage your child to use their Chromebook on a desk or table rather than a bed or thick carpet, which can cause the device to overheat.

🧼 Cleaning & Storage

• Soft Cloths Only: If the screen gets smudgy, use a dry microfiber cloth. Please never use window cleaner, baby wipes, or harsh chemicals, as these can strip the protective coating off the screen.

• Safe Storage: When not in use, the Chromebook should be stored in a safe place away from pets and younger siblings. Avoid leaving it in a hot or cold car, as extreme temperatures can damage the battery.

Is your device acting up? If your student experiences any technical issues or accidental damage, please have them report it to their teacher or librarian immediately. Smaller problems can worsen over time and result in a full replacement charge if left unchecked. 

Did you know? 

CFBISD has implemented a device usage fee beginning this year. All students in grades 3–12 who receive a district-issued take-home device will be required to pay an annual Technology Device Fee of $40 ($25 for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals).
 
Here are a few highlights:

• The fee helps the district maintain and support thousands of student devices while navigating declining enrollment and a multimillion-dollar budget deficit.
• CFBISD is not alone in implementing a device usage fee. Many neighboring districts have had similar fees in place for several years.
• The funds help replace older devices that can no longer support necessary updates and help protect families from unexpected repair costs, which can sometimes exceed $400.
• We understand this is a new expense for families. The district offers the option to pay the full fee by Oct. 15 or set up an installment payment plan through RevTrack.
• Financial assistance may be available to qualifying families. You can apply by completing the online scholarship application.

For more information and FAQ, we ask you to visit the cfbisd.edu/technologydevicefee or send an email to devices@cfbisd.edu

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our students tech-ready and empowered to learn!