Reminder: Student Laptop Distribution

A Reminder:

Franconia Families,

As the school year approaches, we are finalizing the distribution plans for the technological needs of our students. Each 5th and 6th grade student WILL be issued a school laptop and families may request a laptop for any student in grades K-4. It is our goal to ensure that all students can actively participate in digital learning for the 2020-21 school year. If your child meets any of the following criteria, we will provide technology access for-

• K-4 students who do not have access to laptops,
• K-6 students who do not have access to a MiFi (mobile internet device) at home,
• and families who have multiple FCPS students who are sharing devices.

Grades K-4 (Complete one form per child):  If your child in K-4 meets any of the criteria above, please fill out this K-4 form to request a laptop and/or MiFi device for your student(s). Note: If you already have a school assigned laptop or MiFi device, you may continue to use it in the 20-21 school year and do not need to fill out this form.

Grades 5-6: Regardless of whether you meet the above criteria, each 5th and 6th grader will be issued a school laptop for use in distance learning. No form needs to be completed to receive a laptop for 5-6 students. Note: If you already have a school assigned laptop, you will exchange it for a different laptop to use in the 20-21 school year. If you would like to request a MiFi device for a 5-6 student, please fill out this form.

Our laptop distribution will occur on Friday, August 21st and August 28th. We will soon be sending a form for families to schedule a specific time laptop pickup from school on those dates. 

Also, we have received emails from families who would like to purchase their own computer equipment. If you are in the market to buy a device for your child, please consider purchasing a device that has a camera, microphone, and supports the Google Chrome Browser. Chromebooks are a popular, and often less expensive, at-home option for students. Please be aware that tablets might not have the full functionality of a laptop.

For more information on access to technology at FCPS, and vendors who offer educational discount rates, including purchasing software, please visit the FCPS Technology@Home program website.

If you have any technology questions, please contact the main office at 703-822-2200.

Sincerely,

Andrew Smith, Leeanne Pinski, and Elizabeth Scheurer