Technology Requirements

Heritage Christian School recognizes that we are preparing students to live and lead in a rapidly evolving world, and that today’s learners engage with information in ways that differ from past generations. While we value the role of technology as a helpful tool, we ensure it complements, rather than replaces, our foundational educational approach. We believe that in conjunction with classroom instruction, technology can enhance learning, promote collaboration, and provide access to valuable resources. We are committed to maintaining a learning environment that prioritizes discernment, and students are encouraged to grow in character and accountability, all within a Biblical worldview.

All students in grades 7-12 are required to bring a personal device for classroom use.

Device Requirements for the 2026-27 School Year for Grades 7-12

Recommended Devices:

• PC (Windows operating system) laptop
• MacBook Air
• MacBook Pro
• Macbook Neo

Note: iPads, Android tablets, and Chromebooks are not among the allowed devices for grades 7-12 HCS students.

Devices MUST minimally have one of the following OS versions:

• Windows 11
• macOS 14 “Tahoma” or above

Surface laptops/tablets, Windows S laptops are acceptable however if you purchase a Surface laptop running Windows S or another brand laptop running it you must switch it out of S mode in order to install Google Chrome, etc. HCS is a Google Apps for Education campus and therefore this is a requirement. You can find instructions here on how you may convert your student’s device.

Additional Specifications:

• Display - 10” minimum
• CPU - Dual/Multi-core Processor, 2GHz or higher
• Memory - 4 GB or more
• Hard Drive - 128 GB or more
• Network - 802.11 ac or better Wi-Fi capability
• Built-in microphone and webcam
• Wired headphones
• Recommended:
  • Extended battery or backup battery if possible
  • Additional charger to bring to school

Data Plans

Although Apple offers iPads with cellular data plans, this feature is NOT required. Data plans involve a monthly fee and allow "universal" and unsecured internet connectivity through a service similar to an iPhone. For these reasons, HCS recommends not purchasing a data plan. Students will be required to connect their laptop to the HCS wireless network and to disable cellular access while on the HCS campus.

Optional Accessories

• Case/Screen Protector
• Extended battery or backup battery if possible
• Headphones/Earbuds

Other Recommendations

We highly recommend that individual devices be insured. Apple provides Apple Care insurance. Various companies offer additional optional insurance as well. If using an Apple device, it should have the free “Find My” app installed.

Device Loan for Students

The Technology department has a limited amount of devices available for students that have forgotten or damaged their personal device. Students may borrow a device as needed. Please read the Device Loan Policy document.

VPN and Proxy Apps

There are several apps that allow students to circumvent internet filters. Often these apps are called "privacy", "vpn", "proxy" or "secure surfing" apps. HCS does block many of these apps, however, the best way to keep these apps off a student device is for parents to restrict student access to the app store. Any attempt by students to bypass network monitoring violates HCS Policy.

Questions? Contact Admissions.