• Chromebook Protection Plan FAQs 

     

    The protection plan covers new Chromebooks purchased by MCS for distribution during the 2025 school year. In accordance with Board Policy, all students will receive a new Chromebook.

     

    1. Does the first repair reset each year?

    Yes, repair allowances reset each year with the purchase of the protection plan. 

    2. Is it an option to opt out of the new Chromebooks? 

    Per board policy, all students must be issued a Chromebook by the district.

    3. Is “repair” synonymous with “replacement” if the first “repair” is an irreparable Chromebook?

     If the device is inspected and the damage is deemed irreparable, the service obligation switches from repair to replacement. This replacement is only covered if a covered incident caused the original damage and was not due to intentional damage, or an excluded cause (like loss or theft).

    4. Why is the Chromebook cost so high compared to devices parents can buy elsewhere?

    The Chromebooks we purchased include a case that protects the device if accidentally dropped. The Chromebooks are more rugged than an off-the-shelf model and are MilSpec MIL-STD-810G. This also includes the Google Enterprise license we are required to purchase for each Chromebook, and that license is non-transferable.

    5. Do the Chromebooks have a protective case to ensure the exterior of the device is protected?

    We provide a protective case with each device to safeguard the exterior. With proper care, these Chromebooks should remain functional until the next technology refresh. Additionally, the new Chromebook models offer improved durability compared to the previous generation.

    6. Can a student bring their own Chromebook?

    No, personal Chromebooks cannot join our Google Enterprise, and therefore, students would not have access to MCS applications used for instruction. Additionally, we would have to install software on your personal device to ensure the safety of our students and the MCS network.

    7. What about normal wear and tear items?

    Normal wear and tear refers to the minor, cosmetic deterioration that occurs with regular, careful use over time. Items covered under normal wear and tear include:

    If the charging port stops working due to an internal fault, or the battery fails to hold any charge.

    A non-responsive keyboard, touchpad, or touchscreen is covered if the failure is due to an internal defect and was not caused by intentional damage (e.g., liquid spill, impact, or vandalism).

    An LCD screen that fails to display an image (goes black) or has unusual lines/patterns due to an internal fault is covered. This excludes issues caused by physical damage.

    A headphone jack, USB port, or other port that stops working properly due to an internal mechanical failure is covered. This excludes damage from forcing objects into the port.

    Internal components like the motherboard, processor, memory, storage (hard drive/SSD), or Wi-Fi module that stop functioning are covered. 

    Issues directly related to the ChromeOS operating system (software) are covered.

    Examples of damage that are NOT covered (and may incur a repair fee) include:

    Cracked or smashed screens.

    Liquid spills on the keyboard or chassis.

    Bent or broken ports from excessive force.

    Hinges broken from being forced past their limit.

    Deep scratches, dents, or broken casing from dropping or impact.

     

    8. If I purchase the protection plan, what happens if my student’s device is lost or stolen?

    Lost and stolen devices are not covered by the protection plan. If a Chromebook is stolen, Madison City Schools requests that a copy of the police report be provided to the district, and we will work with your insurance company to recover the device or charges incurred.

    9. What if I do not select to opt in or opt out of the protection plan? 

    You have the option to accept or decline, but your student will receive the new Chromebook during the fall semester of 2025 per board policy. Those who do not opt in to the protection plan by October 17th will be presumed to have opted out and will be responsible for damages that fall outside of normal wear and tear.