The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) aims to ensure that students have equitable access to devices which are important for student achievement and well-being.

How It Works

The Chromebook Opt-In Process

  • Each student in Grade 9 to 12 will need to opt-in to receive a WRDSB-provided Chromebook to use while they are students at the WRDSB.
    • Students may also choose to bring their own devices to school to be used for learning purposes.
  • If a student already has a WRDSB-provided Chromebook, there is no need for them to opt-in.
    • Once you opt-in to receive a device, you do not need to opt-in again.
  • Students with Special Education (SEA) devices are not required to complete the opt-in process

Information on the Chromebook opt-in process will be shared with parents, families and caregivers ahead of the start of each school year.

About WRDSB-Provided Chromebooks

  • WRDSB-provided Chromebooks remain the property of WRDSB.
  • Devices will be assigned to an individual student.
  • Students with Special Education (SEA) devices should continue to use the device assigned to them.
  • If a student moves to another WRDSB secondary school or WRDSB program they will take their assigned Chromebook with them.
  • Students graduating or leaving the WRDSB must return their Chromebooks.
  • Devices that are not returned will be remotely disabled.

Chromebook Agreement for Secondary Students

  • Students must read and agree to follow the WRDSB’s Responsible Use Procedure.
  • Parents, families and caregivers complete the Chromebook Agreement (Secondary) as part of the opt-in process.

Bring Your Own Device

Parents, families and caregivers who do not wish to opt-in to receiving a WRDSB-provided Chromebook may instead choose to provide their own device.

Recommended minimum system requirements:

Chromebook

  • 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM
  • 32 gigabytes (GB) of storage
  • 1366 x 768 pixel resolution display

Windows laptop

  • Windows 11 operating system
  • 8 gigabytes (GB) of RAM
  • 256 gigabytes (GB) of storage
  • Antivirus software

MacBook

  • Intel Core i5 processor or better (including M-series of processors),
  • 8 gigabytes (GB) of RAM
  • 256 gigabytes (GB) of storage
  • Antivirus software

The WRDSB is not responsible for the repair or maintenance of devices not provided by the WRDSB to students.

Benefits to Student Learning

  • Ensures equitable access to digital resources that support diverse learning styles.
  • Provides opportunities to develop essential digital literacy and citizenship skills.
  • Enhances collaboration and communication among students and teachers
  • Provides access to digital tools for students to:
    • Create and share their learning
    • Foster creativity and innovation

Student Responsibilities

  • Use their device appropriately as a tool for learning.
  • Take care of their WRDSB-provided Chromebook.
  • Ensure that their device is charged for each school day.
  • Always follow the WRDSB’s Responsible Use Procedure.
  • When taken home, the WRDSB-provided Chromebook must be brought back to school charged and ready for use the next school day.
  • Report any damage or a lost WRDSB-provided Chromebook immediately to their teacher or principal.

Internet Filtering

  • Internet filtering is only in place on WRDSB controlled networks, and not on home networks. Parents, caregivers and families may wish to put website filtering tools into place at home to address this, if they deem it to be necessary.

Malfunctioning, Damaged or Lost Chromebooks

In the event a WRDSB-provided Chromebook is damaged or lost, school administrators will:

  • Determine if a replacement cost is required.
  • Ensure damaged devices remain the property of the school.
  • Collect any required funds through School Day.
Malfunctioning Accidental Damage Neglect or Intentional Damage Lost
No fee. $50 replacement charge. Full replacement cost (currently $400). Full replacement cost (currently $400).
Looking for information about Chromebooks for elementary students? Visit Chromebooks for Grade 7 to 8 Students.