By Shayan Abbasi
In 2024, technology plays a crucial role in education. We know this to be true. Fountain Valley High School (FVHS), similar to many educational institutions from secondary school to college alike, has developed an academic structure around the computer. From quizzes to tests to online presentations, an academic environment without technology is unimaginable.
School districts across the nation have embraced this shift toward education by giving out Chromebooks to students, which are then used throughout the student’s academic career at that school. All is well, right?
Unfortunately not. A new school policy introduced in FVHS for the second semester finds that Chromebook loaners will not be loaned out anymore, which raises questions.
There will be no exceptions made for students who have forgotten their Chromebooks or chargers at home, as the library will not give out loaner Chromebooks anymore, as so resoundingly stated through a flyer emailed out during finals week. Though this announcement may seem unfathomable and illogical at first glance, the true reasons are more rational.
For one, the school has been able to loan out enough computers to meet the demands of anxious students needing Chromebooks ahead of test day, as evidenced by the ominous “Sorry, we are out of Chromebooks” sign attached to the door. Though it can be partially attributed to simply too many students needing Chromebooks, and the library being unable to keep up with the demand, part of the blame lies with students as well.
A large number of Chromebooks have gone missing, due to students either forgetting to bring them back to school or damaging them and choosing not to return them. Whatever the case may be, the number of Chromebooks the library currently holds has greatly reduced in the past semester, and this problem poses complications for all.
This issue is centered around a lack of responsibility among students. Chromebooks provided by the school are important resources that are essential contributors to the learning experience, and as such are crucial school materials that must be treated with respect. The privilege of being allocated a Chromebook should be recognized and respected, yet this is not what is relayed within the jarring decrease from 160 to a mere 10 units available at the school library.
These devices are no mere tools, rather, they are indicators of a shared responsibility within the Baron community, as when students do not return Chromebooks on time, they risk compromising the learning environment for many others, as they are necessary components of the education system through being required for tests. In the meantime, the school administration can look at strategies such as implementing deposit systems.
Overall, the current policy change at Fountain Valley High School can serve as a wake-up call, a call for responsibility, as the technology being provided to students is a privilege, not a right.
By returning Chromebooks on time and in their proper condition, students can show their commitment to upholding thriving academic standards, and make sure that all students have the skills necessary to excel. For many, Chromebooks are the only way in which quality access to technology is available, and in this regard should be treated with excel, as proper access to technology is often an important precursor to success in educational journeys.
