Hello CWCS Families!

Having a Chromebook/Laptop is a privilege at Connecting Waters Charter Schools. It is a tool that will not only help you in your school work, but it will teach you skills that are necessary in most jobs today.

In most cases, proper care of CWCS devices will assist in making a device last for longer periods of time. Please note that the CWCS IT Department will evaluate each device upon return for repair and check for any causes for a device failure. If a device fails due to misuse, negligence, or purposeful damage, the family will be responsible for the cost to fix or replace the device out of pocket, as student funds cannot be used for this purpose. Nonetheless, there are certain circumstances that a device fails, even when there was no negligence. In this case, a replacement device will be issued.

Figure 1: Opening a computer device.

Figure 2. Closing a computer device.

Internet Safety

General Precautions

• No food or drink should be next to your device.
• Computer devices should not be used or stored near pets.
• Computer devices should not be used with the power cord plugged in when the cord may be a tripping hazard.
• Computer devices must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, and labels.
• Heavy objects should never be placed on top of a device.
• Computer devices should never be loaned to another student or individual.

Carrying Chromebooks

• Always transport computer devices with care.
• Students should hold their computer device (cover closed) with two hands if they need to carry the device anywhere.
• Never lift a device by the screen.
• Never carry a device with the screen open.

Opening the Chromebook

• Open the computer device only when it is resting on a flat surface such as a table or desk.
• To open the device, use one hand to hold the keyboard against the table. Use the other hand to open the screen by grasping the screen"s edge (in the middle) and gently moving the screen to the open position. (Figure 1. Opening a computer device.)
• The hinge of the screen will only allow the screen to be open to a slight angle. Do not attempt to open the screen beyond this stopping point as the screen will break if forced.

Closing the Chromebook

• Before closing the screen, make sure there is nothing on the keyboard to prevent the full closure of the device. Obstacles on the keyboard could cause broken screens or damaged hinges.
• Close the screen only when the device is resting on a flat surface such as a table or desk.
• Close the Chromebook using two hands-one at either corner of the screen (Figure 2. Closing a computer device.)
• Close the screen gently.

Screen Care

• The device"s screen can be damaged if subjected to heavy objects, rough treatment, some cleaning solvents, and other liquids. The screens are particularly sensitive to damage from excessive pressure.
• Do not put pressure on the top of a computer device when it is closed.
• Do not store a computer device with the screen open.
• Do not place anything in the protective case that will press against the cover.
• Make sure there is nothing on the keyboard before closing the lid (e.g. pens, pencils, or disks).
• Never lift the computer device by the screen.
• Only clean the screen with a soft, dry microfiber cloth or anti-static cloth.

Asset Tags/Barcodes

• All devices will be labeled with a CWCS asset tag/barcode.
• Asset tags/barcodes may not be modified or tampered with in any way.