KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – Kelseyville High School has turned the technology corner by issuing Chromebooks to all ninth through 12th grade students.

After a minor upgrade to the wireless Internet, students were given the opportunity to check out the ASUS Chromebook, free of charge and for the remainder of their high school attendance period.

Upon graduation, the Class of 2019 and beyond will be given the opportunity to purchase the book for a fee of $25 or return it as if it was a textbook.

Thus far a majority of students taking advantage of the opportunity, checking it out and using it with class room activities.

Many teachers are using the same technology with their students in their daily lessons. Students now have the opportunity to investigate and research as they interact online with the goal of developing the paperless classroom in the near future.

 The conversation can now begin about the purchase of online textbooks. This will be the first of many opportunities for Kelseyville High School students in developing their technology learning tools. The school is excited to have this opportunity and will continue to grow and develop in this area.

Additionally, with each Chromebook the student was given a charging station and carrying case. The value of the package is $300. The device and related equipment remain property of the Kelseyville Unified School District and is both filtered and monitored.

Students and parents were educated about the policy and procedures at a district sponsored in-service. At the presentation completion a signature was required to ensure the understanding and responsibility associated with the device.

Parents were receptive to the new additions, but were also apprehensive to the additional responsibility that comes with checking out a piece of equipment.

Any repairs will be handled on campus under the direction of Mr. Hoefler, the computer science teacher, with the assistance of a small group of trained students.

Damage resulting from misuse will be paid by the student; all other repairs will be covered by either warranty or the Kelseyville Unified School District.

For example, if a charger is lost or stolen it will cost the student $55 to have it replaced; screen damage requiring replacement will cost $60.

Although the school doesn't anticipate excessive amounts of damage, they are prepared to make repairs quickly in order to return the computer to the student for continued use.

This is a historic time for the Kelseyville Unified School District and its students. Technology continues to grow and advance and in this case the school is keeping ahead of the curve providing students with an outstanding opportunity.

School officials said they are grateful to have the chance to directly affect the way our students learn and provide the necessary tools for success.