Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

BYOD, or "Bring Your Own Device," provides a 1:1 student-to-device environment in every classroom. This allows teachers opportunities to create activities leveraging the power of Internet tools and resources to differentiate instruction and personalize learning for every student. Students develop information literacy skills and positive work habits when working with technology, such as managing distractions, practicing responsible online communication, and demonstrating digital citizenship and cybersafety.

Chromebooks are lightweight, cost effective devices available from a variety of manufacturers at different price points. They are at low risk for viruses, have an operating system that automatically updates, and are easily configured to access our school network. With their 6-8 hour battery life and 10-second startup time, teachers are able to design blended learning activities with transitions that seamlessly move between different styles of learning throughout the school day. Having a common platform also increases teacher efficiency in the classroom by streamlining troubleshooting and content integration.

For these reasons, we highly recommend Chromebooks for student use, but other personally owned devices are also acceptable. For information on other devices, review our Minimum Requirements. Please note that other devices may have issues connecting to the district network.

Students are responsible for bringing their fully charged device to school with them each day. Chromebooks should be able to go the entire day on a single full charge, but students should still carry charging blocks and cords should additional charging be necessary. Please note that many classrooms are not equipped with multiple outlets for in-class charging, so it is important that devices be charged at home.

At school, students are expected to use their devices in accordance with all school and district policies. For more information, please review the Student Code of Conduct policies regarding technology use and personal devices (pages 30-32).

Students and their parents are primarily responsible for maintenance and upkeep of devices, another reason why Chromebooks are recommended, as the software updates automatically and they are at a low risk for viruses. Devices purchased through the GovConnection DCSD Parent Purchase Program come with three years of extended Accidental Damage Protection. The school is not responsible for any maintenance, loss or damage of devices.

Students can receive support for their personally owned devices in the Learning Commons with assistance from Learning Commons staff. There are a limited number of Chromebooks available for year-long checkout from the library and all classrooms have a few devices for students who need one for that period.

• Chromebook — District purchases
• Chromebook FAQs
• Chromebook help resourcesS
• Google Chrome webstore

• Office 365: Douglas County School District students (K-12) and staff can download and access Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus for free. 
• Comcast internet essentials: Comcast offers affordable home Internet options for eligible households. 
• Common Sense Media: Trusted ratings for books, movies, television, apps and games created with families in mind.