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HMS 1:1 Parent FAQ’s
What is happening?
All HMS students will be provided with a laptop/chromebook for educational use in school and at home.
Why is this happening?
The focus of the laptop program at Holdrum Middle School is to prepare students for their futures in a world of digital technology and information. As we navigate the 21st century, excellence in education requires that technology, including access to the Internet, be readily available and seamlessly integrated throughout the educational program. Students will be expected to have their laptops charged and ready for learning every day.
What do I need to do?
Parents will be required to log on to the Genesis Parent Portal prior to September, review and acknowledge important documents, and pay the Accidental Damage Protection fee. Students will be required to pass a “Laptop Readiness Quiz” in September before being provided with their laptop (additional details will be provided by HMS administration this summer).
What about insurance?
The district will require each student to pay a $30 fee to cover Accidental Damage Protection from the manufacturer.
What does Accidental Damage Protection cover?
Non-intentional liquid spills, drops, collisions, damage to the screen, all other broken parts impairing the laptop performance or operation, and electrical surges that damage the laptop's circuitry.
What is NOT covered under Accidental Damage Protection?
Theft, fraud, unexplained or mysterious disappearance, or misplacement. Operator negligence, misuse, or mishandling. Damage that does not impact operation and functioning of the computer, including cosmetic damage to case or other non-operating parts or components. Damage due to exposure to weather conditions or environmental conditions outside of manufacturer's specifications.
What about student privacy?
As per the Anti Big Brother Act (N.J.S.A. 18A:3639 (P.L. 2013, c. 44), school issued electronic devices have the ability to record or collect information on user’s activity, both online and offline. The River Vale Public Schools will not use any of these capabilities in a manner that would violate the privacy rights of a student or inpidual residing with the student. All files stored on the River Vale Public Schools network or Google Apps Domain are the property of the district and are subject to regular review and monitoring for responsible use. Internet history and email checks may occur at the discretion of district administration. Students have no expectation of confidentiality or privacy with respect to the usage or content of a districtissued laptop, regardless of whether that use is for districtrelated or personal purposes, other than as specifically provided by law.
Will I own this laptop?
No. The laptop, protective sleeve, and all other district purchased equipment is the property of the River Vale Public School District and must be returned at the end of the school year or when a student leaves the district.
How can parents help?
Parents are encouraged to provide a safe environment for students to use their Laptops at home for school assignments. A WiFi Internet connection will be required for the majority of laptop use. Parents/Guardians are also encouraged to:
● set rules for student use at home.
● allow use in common areas of the home where student use can easily be monitored.
● demonstrate a genuine interest in student’s use of device.
● reinforce the idea that the device is a productivity tool to support learning, rather than used as a form of entertainment.