The Chrome Squad coordinates the 1:1 technology initiative at RCHS. Roles include inventory, repair, tech tips and professional development production for staff. The success of the Chrome Squad has attracted visitors from dozens of school districts of all sizes from across the United States. Chrome Squad students have been invited to tour Google Headquarters, Dell Headquarters and hold presentations to thousands of educators. Under the direction of Cody Holt, the Chrome Squad has become a model program for schools wishing to boost technology integration in the classroom. 

Google has named Royse City ISD as an official Google for Education Reference District. According to Google, “Google for Education Reference Districts are districts that demonstrate excellence and thought leadership through the innovative use of technology, including G Suite for Education (formerly known as Google Apps for Education) and Chromebooks, to drive impact and positive learning outcomes. Fewer than 150 schools and districts are Google for Education Reference Districts/Schools nationwide.  

A result of the 2012 Strategic Plan, RCISD embarked on a journey to authentically integrate technology into the educational process for students. The idea was to extend student learning anytime, anywhere. A 1:1 device initiative called Connected4Learning became the mission for both the curriculum and technology departments in the district. The G Suite for Education was implemented and put students and staff on the same platforms for email, document sharing and collaboration.

 “This recognition as a Google for Education Reference District is an honor! Less than 5 years ago, our students didn’t even have district issued email addresses and now, the collaboration opportunities shared by our teachers and students is considered a model in education,” said Superintendent Kevin Worthy. “The vision of the strategic plan and school board along with the unrivaled innovation in our curriculum and technology departments helped us advance to where we are today with technology integration.”

Currently, all high school and middle school students are offered Chromebook laptops for home and school use. Teachers use Google Classroom to issue and collect assignments as well as provide supplemental information to their lessons. Students can access this information on virtually any device with wifi access.