Joplin R-8 Board approves spending $218,000 to provide Chromebooks for all sixth and seventh graders

In a move that seems especially prudent going into a year that may require students to spend some time at home in addition to time in the classroom, the Joplin R-8 Board of Education, during a special meeting Thursday night, approved the purchase of Chromebooks for all sixth and seventh graders.

The district already provides Chromebooks to all eighth grade students, a recent change from the iPads that were used when the 1-1 initiative for eighth graders was first implemented.

According to board documentation, the Chromebooks will cost $218,106.08, with the money coming out of this year's operational budget.

In the documentation, the district's director of technology Eric Pitcher said, "The COVID-19 crisis has illuminated our need to make virtual/distance learning more equitable and viable for all secondary students in the district.

District officials will try to receive CARES Act funding to cover the cost.