Plan to protect your laptop

Just because it was handed to you to use, does not mean the responsibility of its care ends

Students+are+expected+to+care+for+the+laptops+as+if+they+are+their+own+devices.

Students are expected to care for the laptops as if they are their own devices.

Online learning is a challenge, but it would be impossible without a working laptop. That’s why the Tempe Union High School district has a great way to help computers stay safe and available to freshmen students. But keeping those machines functioning, is a costly matter that Bookstore manager Becky Salazar said students need to take note of. 

Guys, you have got to be more careful with our equipment, especially you freshmen,” said Mrs. Becky Salazar, bookstore manager. “Those laptops were given to you last year, the whole four years. And I’m getting them back in record numbers with cracked screens, damaged keyboards, etc. The screen alone could cost you $130.”

“And when you and your family signed your technology agreements, you agree that you will be financially responsible for any damage done. In light of that the district is now offering a laptop protection program for only $30 a year,” she added.

According to information released by the district, it’s part of the 1:1 technology initiative. Parents have the option to enroll in the Districts Laptop Protection Plan (LPP). Enrollment in the plan will minimize the potential repair and/or replacement costs associated with the laptop. By selecting this plan on the Technology Laptop User Agreement, you agree to pay an annual fee of $30 to be enrolled in the LPP. If a laptop becomes damaged, your student will take it to the school IT Technician and pay a $20 assessment fee. If the laptop is lost or stolen, a fee of $200 will be assessed to cover the cost of the laptop. These fees apply to each occurrence. Enrollment in the LPP does not begin until the annual $30 payment has been received.

Families have until December 4th to sign up and agree to the plan. It could save you lots of money. Anyone who doesn’t sign up – well, you are responsible for repairs or replacements. 

The plan covers things like accidental damage, cracked screens, battery replacement, or even a lost power cord. Be sure to take a look at what the estimated costs are for other repairs.

The plan also covers if the laptop is lost or stolen, but that means a police report has to be filed. Ms. Salazar said the district understands accidents, but students have to be careful. 

Intentional damage to the laptop is not covered under the plan. 

“We will assess your laptop that you return and I will let you know if any fees need to be added to your account. If you have any questions or concerns, please come down and see me in the bookstore. Your parents are welcome to email me or call me at any time. 

“I’m here to help,” Salazar said.

 So the bottom line, take care of the technology, or you’ll have a bill.