Teacher Guide
This guide provides an overview of the device tracking system to help you understand how it works and how to assist students with common questions.
System Overview
The FPS Device Tracking System helps us maintain accountability for over 18,000 Chromebooks across the district. Every device has a small program that periodically checks in with our servers to confirm device assignments.
Key Features:
- Automatic Tracking: Devices report their current user when students log in
- Periodic Check-ins: Students confirm their device assignment every ~90 days
- Swap Detection: System identifies when students may have exchanged devices
- Location Awareness: Helps us know if devices are on campus or at home
What Students See
Students will periodically see a check-in prompt on their Chromebook. This appears as a small notification that asks them to confirm they have the correct device.
The Check-in Prompt
Students see a simple dialog asking "Is this your assigned device?" with three options:
- "Yes, This Is My Device" - Confirms correct assignment
- "No, I Have a Different Device" - Reports they're using a different Chromebook
- "Not My Device" - Reports the device isn't theirs
Common Student Questions
Response: The check-in appears every few months to make sure you
still have your assigned Chromebook. Just check the serial number on the back of
your device and click the appropriate response. It only takes a few seconds!
Response: That's okay! Click "No, I Have a Different Device" on
the check-in prompt. Then check with your classmates to find the person who has
your Chromebook. You can also visit the Library/Media Center for help swapping back.
Response: The system will send reminders over the next couple of
weeks. If you continue to ignore them, your case may be escalated to IT for
follow-up. It's best to respond right away - it only takes a moment!
Response: Please visit the Library/Media Center to get your device
assignment set up. They can assign you a Chromebook and make sure it's properly
registered to your account.
When to Escalate to IT
Please contact IT or the Library/Media Specialist when:
Contact IT when:
- Multiple students report device swaps
- A student's Chromebook is damaged
- A device appears to be malfunctioning
- A student reports a stolen device
- Login or network issues persist
You can handle:
- Explaining check-in prompts
- Helping students swap back devices
- Basic troubleshooting (restart)
- Directing to Library/Media Center
- Charging/power issues
Cart Chromebooks
For classroom Chromebook carts, the system works slightly differently:
- Cart devices are shared among many students
- No specific student assignment is tracked
- If a student uses a cart Chromebook consistently (30+ days), they may see a check-in asking if this should become their assigned device
- This helps us identify when carts are being used as 1:1 devices
Resources
- Student Guide - Share this link with students who have questions
- About Check-ins - Detailed explanation of the check-in process
- FAQ - Frequently asked questions