Superintendent Update

Dear Bedford Public Schools Community,

We want to make you aware of a concerning trend circulating on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, involving the intentional misuse of Chromebooks. This challenge encourages students to insert small objects, such as paperclips, staples, pushpins, or pencil lead, into Chromebook charging or USB ports to cause the device to overheat, smoke, or in some cases, catch fire. Here is a report about this issue from a news station in Connecticut.

Social media trends may appear harmless to students but this behavior poses serious safety risks, including electrical shock, fire hazards, and personal injury. It can also cause significant and irreparable damage to the Chromebook.

Please note:

• Malicious damage is not covered by our district’s Chromebook insurance policy. Families may be held financially responsible for repairs or replacements.
• Tampering with school-issued technology is a violation of the student code of conduct and may result in disciplinary action.
• We are asking for your partnership in addressing this issue at home. While Chromebooks are assigned as 1:1 devices at JGMS and Lane, students have access to Chromebooks in all four of our schools. Please take a few minutes to speak with your student(s) and reinforce the following expectations:
• Make responsible choices online and avoiding harmful trends
• Use school-issued devices for educational purposes only
• Understand the safety hazards and consequences of tampering with electronic devices
• Follow school rules regarding responsible use of technology and understand the potential consequences

Thank you for your continued support in keeping our students safe and ensuring that technology remains a valuable learning tool.

Best,

Cliff Chuang (he/him) 莊 宏 毅

Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools