Pacific Grove School Board approves new Chromebook and iPad refresh plan

Mental health initiatives took center stage at the Pacific Grove Unified School District (PGUSD) Board Meeting on April 4, 2025, as trustees emphasized the importance of social-emotional learning in navigating the challenges of the future. Trustee Atmar highlighted the critical role of mental health support, stating, "Social emotional learning and mental health are just so vital." The board acknowledged the district's commitment to prioritizing the well-being of students, with Trustee Mary expressing gratitude for the collective efforts of therapists, counselors, and staff in fostering a supportive environment.

The meeting also addressed a significant decision regarding the refresh of student computing devices. Director of Educational Technology Matthew Binder presented a comprehensive plan to replace aging Chromebooks and iPads, which are nearing the end of their lifespan. The current fleet, purchased in 2020, is showing signs of wear, prompting the need for a strategic refresh to ensure students have access to reliable technology.

Binder detailed the extensive research and input gathered from staff and students, noting that the selected model for the new devices, the HP G11, offers improved performance and durability. The decision to move forward with this model was based on a competitive evaluation of vendors, with the chosen provider, Trofera, offering valuable features such as asset tagging and WiFi configuration.

The board unanimously approved the first phase of the refresh plan, which will begin this summer, allowing students to utilize the new devices in the upcoming school year. This proactive approach aims to enhance the learning experience while extending the life of existing devices by reallocating them to lower grade levels.

As the meeting concluded, the board reaffirmed its commitment to both mental health and technological advancement, recognizing their interconnectedness in fostering a thriving educational environment. The anticipated outcomes of these initiatives are expected to significantly benefit the students and the broader community in the years to come.