Technology

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

No. We understand the investment you've already made and will work with your student's device to maximize its potential. Our experience with BYOD taught us that lower-end devices were often too slow to keep up with classroom activities. These entry-level devices also failed to provide enough storage space for required software and updates. We recommend families purchase laptops with a bit more computing power. They will last longer and help your student thrive in the classroom.

Which is better — Mac or PC?

Summit teachers prefer for students to use Microsoft Windows laptops. Our teachers are most familiar with this platform and are more capable of answering student questions inside Windows. Ultimately, it comes down to preference. Laptops running Windows are available through multiple vendors and offer a variety of price points. Apple products tend to cost more upfront but may provide a longer lifespan. Students who choose to use an Apple MacBook will need to know how to navigate the Apple operating system without assistance. It may not look the same as what appears on the teacher's display.

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

Summit has partnered with Microsoft to offer a great laptop and warranty package for the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go! You can learn more about this program at Summit.

How much should I spend?

Entry-level laptops that meet our minimum requirements begin around $350-$450. These computers, and often used computers, can be frustratingly slow. Spending more on faster computers and additional storage space may benefit your student in the long run. You get what you pay for. Sales, closeouts, and open box items can often save 10-20%. Be sure to ask/look for educational discounts for students.

Do I need a laptop with a touchscreen?

Many students find a touchscreen laptop helpful, but it is not required.

What if my computer breaks?

Summit offers computer support for school-related software, school Wi-Fi connectivity, on-campus printing, and general questions about computer usage. Students are fully responsible for the care and upkeep of their laptops. Devices that malfunction or have major software issues should be taken to a local computer service center or processed through your manufacturer/extended warranty. We highly recommend purchasing an extended warranty for your device.

Where can my child charge his/her device?

Students must come to school with a fully charged laptop each day. Much like they charge their phones at night, students should develop a habit of charging their laptops each night. We ask students to use their battery time wisely. Classrooms have minimal access to power outlets.

Hard Drives: SSD vs HDD – An SSD (Solid State Drive) is significantly faster and less susceptible to failure due to movement and bumps as they are solid and not mechanical. Choose SSD.

Life of Device – All devices and hardware have a limited lifespan. This is affected by the treatment of the device. It's also affected by a rapidly changing environment with software that demands more powerful operating systems and devices on an ongoing basis.

Families should plan for a student to go through a minimum of two devices between intermediate and high school years. Low-end laptops have a significantly shorter lifespan and may need to be replaced after two years. Summit Christian Academy recommends that families invest in a backpack with a pocket designated explicitly for laptops.

Big Laptop vs Smaller Notebook – Larger laptops are bulky, heavy, and often more challenging to carry around the school from class to class. Laptops with larger screens are generally power hogs and can drain a battery quickly. We discourage laptops with screens 15" or larger.

Software Management – Having a fast computer is good, but managing software installed on your device is also essential. A computer with a lot of software installed will slow down and reduce the battery run time. Installing software from unknown or non-trusted locations may invite malware, which could cause harm to your computer and slow it down. Students need to know what they install on their machines and carefully manage their software.

Supported Operating Systems – SCA only supports computers running macOS or Microsoft Windows 10/Windows 11. Our IT department does not support Windows XP, Vista, and versions 7 & 8. Please also avoid Windows version "S".

Virus and Malware Protection – Summit Christian Academy REQUIRES that all students run and install our antivirus solution, currently Malwarebytes. All other AV software should be uninstalled. Malwarebytes is provided at no cost to students and faculty and will be installed during the first week of school.

Student Device Care and Security –

Mishandling laptops is the most significant cause of problems at Summit Christian Academy. Most devices will come with care guidelines, which we advise users to read. We recommend:

• A username and password should protect portable devices. Students should not disclose their passwords to others.
• Always store the laptops in a protective backpack with a designated padded pocket. Do not store anything else inside the laptop bag (chargers, papers, etc.).
• Avoid storing your laptop at the bottom of your school bag – pressure from books can damage the screen and hinges.
• Carry your laptop within its protective cover inside your regular school bag. (Pressure on the computer can cause permanent damage to the screen and other components.) Do not overfill your school bag.
• Never lift the laptop by the screen. This will stress the hinge mechanism, which also carries the data and power supply to the screen.
• Never leave your laptop in unsupervised areas during the school day.
• The security of a student-owned device is the responsibility of the student. Students should label laptops with their names.

Warranty – Most machines come with a 1-year warranty and a 3-year optional warranty. The laptop warranty generally covers the parts and labor for repairs. The majority of laptop warranties cover hardware problems that were not caused by the owner, such as defective keyboards, monitor problems, or other issues with internal components.

Insurance – Your existing home contents policy will cover most theft or damage. Please check with your insurance provider that this is the case. In most cases, an excess will apply, so you will need to weigh whether to make a claim. The owner of the device is responsible for insurance coverage.

Saving and Backup – Students are responsible for their backup of critical data at all times. We encourage students to store their work using Microsoft OneDrive, a cloud-based solution provided with their student Microsoft Office account.