Laptops, Tablets, Devices
New 1:1 Program handbookAt Gross Catholic, we have a proud tradition of incorporating technology into our curriculum.
Technology Program
Class of 2027
We have tremendous pride in our educational technology program and are in the process of standardizing student hardware devices. Beginning with the class of 2027, students will be required to purchase the same laptop device from the school. By using a standardized device, many advantages are provided to the student such as improved reliability, expanded usage, and increased equity.
Check out the 1:1 Handbook for all the detailed information that you need.
The 1:1 Device Program Purchase Information and Payment Schedule is available now.
We have a full time technology director on staff to handle the warranty issues for the class of 2027. The laptops purchased from the school by the class of 2027 will include a 4 year accidental damage contract. All repairs will be covered except for battery and charger cord replacement.
All devices will come with a protective case, but families may wish to purchase a bag to carry the laptop to and from school.
Classes 2024 to 2026
Students in classes 2024 to 2026 will continue to use their current Bring Your Own Device which should be a laptop or a tablet that the student has purchased and must maintain. The device must connect to the school wifi network. Cell phones are not considered an effective device.
Each teacher is responsible for letting students know which devices are suitable for each particular lesson. It is the responsibility of the student to use the device appropriately for education. Cell phones are normally not allowed to be used in classrooms unless the teacher specifically deems them necessary for a lesson.
Students in classes 2023 to 2026 will be assisted by the technology coordinator to repair laptops when possible. A high school is an environment where devices can easily be damaged. Each family of students in classes 2023 to 2026 may want to set aside some money in case the device needs repair.
Windows Environment
We are a Windows environment, but we do allow Macs. They are more difficult to work on, but technician will do his best on any device that he receives. If he cannot fix it (which is rare) he will facilitate repair for you.
Protection for Your Technology
A high school is an environment where devices can easily be damaged. It is up to individual families to decide if they want to acquire accidental damage plans at the time of their purchase. As stated earlier, our technician can repair most anything cheaper and faster than any place in town. Each family may want to set aside some money just in case a device needs repair.
Technology Bag
Additionally, all students need to purchase a device bag on their own for their laptops. The bag should used only for the device and should only have one strap (backpack style laptop bags are not allowed.) Devices other than laptops should have a protective case.
Web Filter
Gross Catholic has a top-notch web filter in place that blocks inappropriate sites. Our web filter does not work outside of school. Parents may want to investigate appropriate web filters for their home network.
Recommendations for Your Technology Purchase if Not in the 1: 1 Program
In general, we suggest purchasing a mid-range laptop. Inexpensive laptops usually are too slow and therefore very frustrating to use. If you are really on a budget, some students have gotten by with Chromebooks, but they are limited in what they can do and you will need to figure out work-arounds depending on the teacher or class.
Processors: We only recommend Intel Core Processors. Our experience with AMD processors has not been great. Core i5 makes up the majority of mainstream computers, so an i5 is a safe bet. We do not recommend Core i3. If you want great processors, then move up to i7 or i9.
RAM: 8GB is the minimum. If you run a lot of apps at the same time, 16GB is the way to go. 32GB (or beyond) is usually not needed unless you are a gamer.
Storage: Most laptops now have solid state drives (SSD.) That is what we suggest.
Ports: Your laptop should have more than one USB port.
Please contact Mr. Jim Homan at homan@gcgmail.org if you have any questions or concerns.