Student Device – Minimum Spec

The Chromebook is our minimally required device. There are two primary factors that support this recommendation. First, an overwhelming majority of the learning resources used in our classrooms are Internet-based. Second, there is a great deal of writing required of upper school students across our curricula. A device with a fully functional web browser and a full-size keyboard will best meet these needs.

Throughout our middle school students, (and upper school students upon request), will receive a DELL Chromebook 11 3189 with these specifications. Any computing device that meets or exceeds these minimum specifications below would be an acceptable alternative.

  • Screen size: minimum 11.6″
  • Processor: Celeron N3060
  • RAM: 16GB
  • SSD: 32GB
  • HD Graphics 400

Additional items you may wish to consider, but are not required:

  • Flipscreen capability
  • Touchscreen interface (particularly helpful when editing documents using a stylus)
  • Stylus (if the device has a touchscreen)

For Upper School students taking a course in Computer Science

A tablet or Chromebook will not support the required installations for courses beyond 710. Additionally, when selecting between Windows or Mac, please keep in mind that a Mac device will be needed for 715, where focus is developing for iOS (iPhone Operating System). This is the sole case that a Windows device will not be sufficient.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Computer Science Department Chair or Division Director with financial aid questions or hardships related to obtaining a device.

 

For Windows Laptops

Operating System                 Recommended: Windows 11 version 23H2 or later

Processor                                Minimum: Intel Core i5 dual-core processor (12th Generation)

                                                 Recommended: Intel Core i5 quad-core processor, i7, or i9 (13th Generation or later)

Memory                                  Recommended: 16GB or more

Hard Drive                             Minimum: 256GB SSD

                                                 Recommended: 512GB or larger SSD

 

For Apple Mac Laptops

Operating System                Minimum: MacOS Sonoma

                                               Recommended: MacOS Sequoia

Processor                              Minimum: Apple M2

                                               Recommended: Apple M3 or M4 processor

Memory                                Recommended: 16GB or more

Hard Drive                           Minimum: 256GB SSD

                                               Recommended: 512GB or larger SSD