Can my student use a MacBook, Chromebook, or iPad?

No. Summit’s BYOD program requires students in grades 7–12 to use a supported Windows laptop as their primary school device. MacBooks, Chromebooks, iPads, tablets, and other non-Windows devices are not supported for BYOD use.

The minimum requirements have changed. Do I need to purchase a new device?

Not necessarily. If your student already has a Windows laptop, Summit will work with the student’s current device as long as it can reasonably support classroom needs, required software, internet filtering, and updates.

However, our experience with BYOD has shown that lower-end devices are often too slow to keep up with classroom activities. Entry-level laptops may also lack sufficient storage for required software and Windows updates. For the best long-term experience, we recommend purchasing a laptop with strong processing performance, at least 8GB of RAM, and SSD storage.

Why does Summit require Windows laptops?

Summit’s classroom tools, testing platforms, filtering systems, software support, and technology procedures are built around Microsoft Windows. Using a Windows laptop helps provide a more consistent classroom experience and allows Summit staff to provide better support when needed.

Why doesn’t SCA negotiate with a single vendor for discounts?

Summit periodically evaluates device options and may provide recommended purchasing opportunities when available. However, BYOD gives families flexibility to choose a device that fits their budget and preferences, as long as it meets Summit’s requirements.

How much should I spend?

Laptops that meet the minimum requirements often start around $500–$800. While these devices may technically meet the requirements, many lower-cost models can become frustratingly slow over time.

Families who can invest a little more often benefit from better speed, storage, durability, and device lifespan. Sales, closeouts, open-box deals, and education discounts can help reduce the cost of a higher-quality device.

Do I need a laptop with a touchscreen?

No. Touchscreens are not required. Some students find them helpful, but a touchscreen should not be prioritized over performance, battery life, durability, or storage.

What if my computer breaks?

Summit provides technology support for school-related software, Wi-Fi access, on-campus printing, filtering, and general use questions. However, students and families are responsible for maintaining, protecting, and repairing personal devices.

For hardware problems or major repairs, families should contact a local service center, retailer, or the device manufacturer. Summit strongly recommends purchasing an extended warranty or accidental damage protection when possible.

Where can my child charge their device?

Students must arrive each day with a fully charged laptop. Students should develop a routine of charging their laptops each night before school.

Classrooms have limited access to outlets, and students should not rely on charging during the school day. Battery life and charging habits are important parts of being prepared for class.

Storage: SSD vs. HDD

Choose a laptop with a Solid State Drive (SSD). An SSD is significantly faster than a traditional hard drive (HDD) and is less likely to fail from movement, bumps, or everyday student use because it has no moving parts. For better speed, durability, and reliability, SSD storage is required.

Life of Device

All devices have a limited lifespan. A device’s useful life is affected by how it is treated, the quality of the hardware, and the increasing demands of modern software.

Families should anticipate that a student may need more than one device during grades 7–12. Low-end laptops often have shorter lifespans and may need replacement sooner. Summit Christian Academy recommends choosing a well-built device and using a backpack with a dedicated, padded laptop compartment.

Laptop Size

Larger laptops are bulky, heavy, and harder for students to carry from class to class. They also tend to use more power, which can reduce battery life. For these reasons, Summit recommends laptops with screens between 11” and 14” and does not recommend laptops with screens 15” or larger.

Software Management

A fast device is helpful, but managing what is installed is just as important. Devices with excessive or unnecessary software may run more slowly and have reduced battery life. Installing software from unknown or untrusted sources can introduce malware, reduce performance, or create security concerns. Students should install software responsibly and keep their devices clean and organized.

Supported Operating Systems

Summit Christian Academy supports only computers running Microsoft Windows 11.

Windows 10, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows “S Mode,” macOS, ChromeOS, iPadOS, Android, and Linux are not supported for BYOD use.

Devices running Windows in S Mode must be switched out of S Mode before they can be used as a supported school device.

Virus and Malware Protection

Summit Christian Academy requires all student BYOD laptops to install and run the school-approved antivirus and endpoint protection solution, currently Malwarebytes. Other antivirus software should be uninstalled to prevent conflicts.

Malwarebytes is provided at no cost to students and will be installed during the first week of school.

Student Device Care and Security

Mishandling devices is the leading cause of laptop problems at Summit Christian Academy. Students should review and follow the care instructions provided with their device.

Additional recommendations include:

• Protect devices with a username and password.
• Do not share passwords.
• Store laptops in a protective backpack with a padded electronics compartment.
• Do not place chargers, books, papers, or other items in the same pocket as the laptop.
• Avoid storing laptops at the bottom of school bags where pressure can damage screens and hinges.
• Use a protective sleeve when possible, even inside a larger bag.
• Never lift a laptop by the screen.
• Do not leave laptops unattended during the school day.
• Clearly label devices with the student’s name.

Warranty

Most laptops include a standard 1-year manufacturer's warranty, with optional extended coverage available from many retailers or manufacturers. Warranties typically cover manufacturer-related hardware issues, such as defective components, but usually do not cover accidental damage or misuse.

Families are encouraged to consider an extended warranty or accidental damage protection when purchasing a student device.

Insurance

Some homeowners or renters insurance policies may cover theft or damage to student devices. Families should check with their insurance provider to confirm coverage and determine whether filing a claim would be worthwhile after considering any deductible.

The device owner is responsible for insuring the laptop.

Saving and Backup

Students are responsible for backing up their own files. Summit strongly recommends using Microsoft OneDrive, which is included with each student’s Microsoft Office account, to store important school files in the cloud.