Credit: SVC Reporter Nathan Knight, Otwell Middle School

Otwell Middle School student Nathan Knight explores how the new technology policy of Forsyth County Schools is affecting students, sharing mixed reactions to county-issued laptops.

Forsyth County Schools recently implemented a new policy requiring all students to use school-issued laptops. 

The decision was made to help with digital safety and make sure that students are using devices that can be monitored by teachers. 

With this change, students are no longer allowed to bring personal devices from home, and all schoolwork must be done on county-provided Chromebooks.

Student responses at Otwell Middle School have been mixed. 

Some, like sixth grader Daniel, appreciated the convenience.

“I like it because then you don’t have to fight other kids for a computer in the lock and charge,” he said. “But I also don’t like how many restrictions there are.” 

The restrictions are a program that filters content and allows teachers to monitor student activity.

A survey of six students showed that four liked taking computers home and working outside of school. 

“I didn’t have a personal computer before, so now I can finally do my work on Canvas from home," said eighth grader Abidan.