Technology

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

Not necessarily. We understand the investment you've already made and will work with your student's current device to maximize its usefulness. Our experience with BYOD has shown that lower-end devices are often too slow to keep up with classroom activities. These entry-level laptops also tend to lack sufficient storage for required software and updates. For the best long-term experience, we recommend purchasing a laptop with higher processing power and storage. A better-performing device will last longer and help your student thrive.

Which is better — Windows or something else?

Summit teachers prefer students to use laptops running Microsoft Windows. Our staff is most familiar with the Windows platform and can better assist students with troubleshooting and in-class instruction. Devices running Windows are available from many manufacturers and at a wide range of price points. If your student uses a different platform, they will need to be confident navigating that system independently, as it may not mirror what’s shown in class.

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

Summit has partnered with Microsoft to offer an excellent laptop and warranty package built around the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go. You can learn more about this program through the school.

How much should I spend?

Laptops that meet our minimum specs typically start around $350–$450. While these devices may technically meet the requirements, many lower-cost or used models can be frustratingly slow. Spending a bit more on improved speed and storage often results in a better experience and longer lifespan. Sales, closeouts, and open-box deals can save 10–20%. Be sure to check for student educational discounts when shopping.

Do I need a laptop with a touchscreen?

Touchscreens are not required, but many students find them helpful for certain tasks.

What if my computer breaks?

Summit provides tech support for school-related software, Wi-Fi access, on-campus printing, and general use questions. However, students are responsible for maintaining and caring for their devices. For major issues or hardware repairs, laptops should be taken to a local service center or handled through the manufacturer’s warranty. We strongly recommend purchasing an extended warranty to cover unexpected issues.

Where can my child charge their device?

Students must arrive each day with a fully charged laptop. Just like they charge their phones at night, they should develop a routine of charging their laptops overnight. While classrooms have some outlets, access is limited—battery management during the school day is essential.

Hard Drives: SSD vs HDD – An SSD (Solid State Drive) is significantly faster and less prone to failure caused by movement or bumps, as it has no moving parts. For better speed and durability, choose SSD.

Life of Device – All devices and hardware have a limited lifespan. This is affected by how the device is treated and by the rapidly evolving demands of modern software, which increasingly requires more powerful systems.

Families should anticipate the need for a student to go through at least two devices between intermediate and high school years. Low-end laptops tend to have shorter lifespans and may need replacement after two years. Summit Christian Academy recommends that families invest in a backpack with a dedicated, padded laptop compartment.

Big Laptop vs Smaller Notebook – Larger laptops are bulky, heavy, and harder for students to carry from class to class. They also tend to consume more power, resulting in shorter battery life. For these reasons, we discourage laptops with screens 15" or larger.

Software Management – A fast device is helpful, but managing what’s installed is just as important. Devices with excessive or unnecessary software may run slower and have reduced battery life. Installing software from unknown or untrusted sources can introduce malware that slows down performance or causes harm. Students should be aware of what they install and manage their software responsibly.

Supported Operating Systems – SCA supports only computers running Microsoft Windows 10 or Windows 11 (preferred). We do not provide support for Windows XP, Vista, or versions 7, 8, or Windows "S" editions.

Virus and Malware Protection – Summit Christian Academy requires all students to install and run our approved antivirus solution, currently Malwarebytes. All other antivirus software should be uninstalled. 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 problems at Summit Christian Academy. Most laptops come with care instructions, which we encourage students to review. Additional recommendations include:

• Devices should be protected by a username and password. Students should not share passwords.

• Always store laptops in a protective backpack with a padded compartment designed for electronics.

• Do not place other items (like chargers, books, or papers) in the same pocket as the laptop.

• Avoid storing laptops at the bottom of school bags, where pressure can damage screens and hinges.

• Carry your laptop in its protective sleeve, even when inside a larger bag.

• Never lift a laptop by the screen. This stresses the hinges and internal connectors.

• Do not leave laptops unattended during the school day.

• Devices should be labeled clearly with the student’s name.

Warranty – Most laptops come with a 1-year standard warranty, with optional extended coverage up to 3 years. Warranties typically cover manufacturer-related hardware issues such as defective components but do not cover damage caused by misuse.

Insurance – Many home insurance policies may cover theft or damage to student devices. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and assess the value of filing a claim, considering any deductible that may apply. The device owner is responsible for insuring the laptop.

Saving and Backup – Students are responsible for backing up their own data. We strongly recommend using Microsoft OneDrive, included with each student’s Microsoft Office account, to store important files in the cloud.