The reason the district is transitioning to a more traditional 1:1 (one device per student) model starting with the Class of 2026 are as follows:
The 1:1 model allows the district to install software programs used in the classroom on all student devices. The current PYOD model does not allow the district to install software on student-owned devices.
The 1:1 model allows for more efficient troubleshooting when issues arise. Currently, Garnet Valley High School has one Technology Support Specialist that is expected to troubleshoot multiple student devices running many different operating systems and programs.
The 1:1 model ensures that all teachers and students have the same device with the same programs, making it easier for teachers to know which programs will work on student devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will current 11th & 12th-grade high school students also receive a new laptop next year?
A. No, all current 11th & 12th-grade high school students will continue to participate in the PYOD (Pick Your Own Device) program through their graduation year. PYOD allows students to bring their own devices to school each day or lease a Chromebook from the district for $65 per year.
Q. Why do current high school students pay to lease a device and other students receive their device at no cost?
A. Current high school students that lease a Chromebook from the district get to keep that device upon graduation.
Q. Will the incoming 9th & 10th-grade students be allowed to keep this new laptop upon graduation?
A. No, students will be expected to return their laptops upon graduation. We do expect that students will be able to purchase their laptops but we do not know the cost at this time.
Q. How does the district ensure students are using the district-owned laptops appropriately and responsibly?
A. Garnet Valley is committed to helping students develop a healthy relationship with technology. Our goal is to provide the right balance of educating students to safely explore the digital world with age-appropriate content filtering and device restrictions. To do that:
Garnet Valley leverages Common Sense Media’s Digital Citizenship curriculum to address timely topics and prepare students to take ownership of their digital lives. Garnet Valley is one of only a handful of districts in the country to be named a Certified Common Sense School District. This award is given to districts that demonstrate a commitment to educating students on the responsible and appropriate use of technology. Click HERE to see an overview of Common Sense Media’s Digital Citizenship curriculum.
Garnet Valley is committed to developing an atmosphere of trust among parents and the community in our ability to provide not only a positive and enriching educational experience but a safe place for students to thrive. Our partnership with Family Zone has allowed us to create an educational hub for parents to explore technology-related tips and resources. This hub includes articles, videos, courses, and more. Click HERE to visit the Family Zone page found in the Parent Portal of our district website. Click HERE for Common Sense Media’s Family Engagement Resources.
Garnet Valley uses two types of content filtering systems. On-campus content filtering is provided by Fortinet, an industry-leading content filtering system. Fortinet security solutions are tested, validated, and certified by a broad range of industry organizations. Off-campus content filtering on school-issued student devices is provided through Linewize. Linewize gives Garnet Valley the ability to filter school-issued devices at home and provides visibility into what students are doing while online.
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