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

We recommend using a Windows laptop or Macbook if students plan on taking a Computer Science course beyond 710. A tablet or Chromebook will not support the required installation of course specific software. Please note, students planning on taking 715 must have access to a Macbook as a Windows device does not support Apple mobile app development.

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

For Windows Laptops

Operating System   Recommended: Windows 11

Processor                 

  • Minimum: Intel Core i5 dual-core processor (10th Generation)
  • Recommended: Intel Core i5 quad-core processor, or i7 (11th Generation)

Memory                   

  • Recommended: 16GB or more

Hard Drive              

  • Minimum: 256GB SSD
  • Recommended: 512GB or larger SSD

 

For Apple Macbook Laptops

Operating System  

  • Minimum: MacOS Monterey
  • Recommended: MacOS Ventura

Processor                 

  • Recommended: Apple M1 or M2 processor

Memory                   

  • Recommended: 16GB or more

Hard Drive              

  • Minimum: 256GB or larger hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD)
  • Recommended: 512GB or larger SSD