The Houston County School District will soon begin issuing Google Chromebooks to all students in grades 1-12. Devices are expected to be delivered to all schools by the end of March. The Houston County Board of Education approved the purchase of the 16,000 devices during the November 2021 Board meeting using funds issued through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The remainder of the devices were purchased using Title I funding and a $2.3 million grant received from the Emergency Connectivity Fund in September 2021.

“Our Board is committed to providing resources that enhance our students’ access to a world-class education,” said Dr. Mark Scott, Superintendent of the Houston County School District. “Technology skills are extremely important in today’s world and these devices are a valuable tool for our teachers as they seek to enrich learning through technology-based activities.”

Prior to receiving the device, parents and students must visit www.hcbe.net/deviceprogram to read the Guide for Parents & Students and sign the Student Learning Device Agreement. Each school will communicate the dates when devices will be distributed. Chromebooks will come in a protective cover to help against scratches and everyday wear to the device. Beginning in second grade, students will be asked to charge their Chromebook at home each night and bring the device to school each day.

The devices also come with an accidental protection plan to cover against most breaks, spills, and drops. For more information about the District’s learning device program and optional insurance to protect against loss or theft, please visit www.hcbe.net/deviceprogram.