Thriving Together
Academics
Academics
Middle School | Gr. 5-8

Middle School Technology

LAPTOPS FOR LEARNING

Laguna Blanca provides a technologically rich learning environment where teaching and learning are enhanced by using appropriate technology as part of the curriculum. We also teach our students how to be responsible digital citizens. The Technology Department uses the latest in content filtering tools for student Internet use and expects all students to observe the guidelines established in the Responsible Use Policy.

The Laptops for Learning program requires all students in grades five through eight to bring their own laptops to school every day. Below are frequently asked questions about the program. If you need additional information, please email technology@lagunablanca.org.

Frequently Asked Questions by Parents

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

  • What is the purpose of the Laptops for Learning Program at LBS?

    The primary goals of the Laptops for Learning Program are:
    • to provide students with direct and continuous access to learning resources and experiences throughout the school day.
    • to have students use their laptops regularly and with purpose during teacher directed activities.
    • to have personal digital devices, such as laptops, ultimately become cognitive tools that are holistically integrated into the teaching and learning processes of the school.
    • to improve students' technology skills and better prepare them for a technology filled future.
    • for everyone involved to recognize that in this digital age, teaching practices are continually evolving, and that LBS teachers will continue to seek out and model best practices that infuse technology appropriately into the learning process.

  • How much does this program cost?

    See below for projected laptop costs if a student does not currently own one:

    Laptop: $300-1,500
    Protective Carrying Case (Hard shell case recommended): $20-50

  • Will parents be required to purchase a new laptop for the Laptops for Learning Program?

    Only if they currently do not own one that meets the minimum requirements below. Families that need assistance with acquiring a suitable laptop can email technology@lagunablanca.org.

  • What are the minimum requirements for the laptop?

    Laptop minimum requirements:
    • A long lasting battery life (3+ hours)
    • Should power on in less than 60 seconds
    • A full sized-screen (minimum 11")
    • A hardshell case to protect the laptop
    • Headphones
    • A functioning video camera
    • A processor that can support video conference & multitasking (i5 or higher)
    It is strongly recommended that the computer not be older than three years of age and that it is covered by an extended warranty with accident coverage.

  • Can my child bring an Internet capable device (i.e. smart phone, iPad, etc.) in lieu of using a laptop?

    No. The Laptops for Learning Program is designed around classroom use of laptops will full version software applications, and Web-based resources. While the small size of an iPad or smart phone is convenient, the processing power and memory does not meet the specifications which will be required for the resources and assignments teachers are planning to use.

  • What about Internet filtering at school?

    All computers used at school are subject to our filtering system, whether on the WIFI or standard network. It's important to keep in mind that no filtering system is perfect, so students are expected to observe the guidelines set forth in the School’s Responsible Use Policy while using any digital device at school.

  • Are there any forms or documents parents need to sign?

    The Responsible Use Policy is included within the student/parent information handbook. Before any student can connect to the school network, a signed copy of the student/parent handbook form is required.

  • How will I be notified of any changes or announcements about the Program?

    You will receive email messages with important information and updates about the Laptops for Learning Program. Therefore, it is important that the school have current email addresses for parents. Please contact Sara Fenu in the Main Office to update email addresses. We will also post updates to this webpage as needed. Please contact the Tech Department at technology@lagunablanca.org with any questions that are not addressed on this webpage.

Frequently Asked Questions by Students

List of 13 frequently asked questions.

  • What is the Laptops for Learning Program?

    Students in grades five through eight are required to bring their own laptops to school every day to use in their classes. Students connect to the Internet over our WIFI network. They also connect to various websites depending on what teachers have planned for their classes.

  • What kind of laptop do I need?

    Students are to bring a fully charged, lightweight laptop with a battery life of at least four hours. Students are asked not to bring iPads to school for the L4L Program. You and your parents should be aware of the minimum requirements for your laptop as listed above.

  • What software do I need to have on my laptop?

    For Internet browsing, please download and install Firefox or Chrome. Some teachers may have you create some shortcuts or download certain “open source” software programs, which are free for everyone.

    The school uses Zoom for video conferencing and we recommend that students download Zoom on their laptop.

    Please make sure you have anti-virus on your laptop as well.

  • When should I start bringing my laptop to school?

    Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth grade students will bring laptops beginning the first day of school.

  • What else do I need to bring for my laptop?

    Please bring a protective carrying case and power cord. It is very important that you are able to protect your laptop from bumps and dropping with a sturdy case. A power cord is also very important especially if your laptop will not hold a charge for at least four hours.

  • I am a new student. How do I get my account started?

    Parents of new students will receive information via email on how their child can activate their school account.

  • What if my laptop won’t work properly at school?

    The Technology Department staff will do their best to get your computer going on the WiFi network. If we cannot resolve the problem because of low disk space, lack of current OS updates, viruses, or faulty or obsolete hardware, your parents may need to help with providing repairs or upgrades.

  • What if I lose or break my laptop?

    We will be able to provide a loaner for a few days while repairs or replacement of the student’s laptop can occur. Loaner computers cannot go home, so make sure to save your files online to Swoop Drive.

  • Where will I keep my computer files?

    You will not have access to school file servers unless you are using a School-owned computer. So, when using your laptop you should save your files to class folders on your computer using the Google Drive app.

  • Can I charge my laptop while at school?

    Yes. It is recommended that you come to school with a fully charged laptop each day. But if needed, teachers can provide extension cords for you to use during class. Be sure to bring your laptop power cord each day.

  • What if I forget to bring my laptop to school?

    You may check out a school loaner from the technology office for use while you are at school. Some teachers may have consequences for students who repeatedly forget to bring their laptop to school. So, do your best to bring it!

  • Can I let my friends use my laptop?

    Loaning your laptop to anyone else is strongly discouraged. The only exception may be leaving it with the Technology Department staff for troubleshooting problems for you.

  • Where do I keep my laptop when I’m not using it?

    When not in use, keep your laptop in your backpack or in your locker in its protective case. NEVER leave it unattended. Any laptop left lying out in the hallways or left in a classroom unattended will be taken to the Middle School office where you will need to go to retrieve it. If you repeatedly leave it out and unattended, the school will call your parents to come pick it up for you.
COMMON SENSE MEDIA
With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility

In our modern world, kids of all ages use digital media to explore, connect, create, and learn online, both at home and at school. Because of this, young people today have extraordinary opportunities, yet they face potential pitfalls, too.

Meanwhile, schools often deal with the associated ramifications -- cyber-bullying, digital cheating, and safety and security concerns. These issues underscore the need for digital literacy and citizenship skills instruction.

To help our students safely navigate and manage their digital lives, Laguna has adopted the Common Sense Digital Citizenship EK-12 curriculum. For more information regarding Common Sense and its wealth of parent resources, visit Common Sense Media.

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Laguna Blanca is Santa Barbara’s premier private, co-educational, college preparatory day school for students in Early Kindergarten through Grade 12.
LAGUNA BLANCA SCHOOL  |   4125 PALOMA DRIVE   SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA  93110  |   805.687.2461