Upper Grand District School Board Device Lifecycle Initiative

This case study outlines the initiative by the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) to evaluate the repurposing of retired Chromebook hardware using FydeOS, a ChromiumOS-based operating system. The primary objective was to maximize existing hardware investments, reduce electronic waste, and enhance access to computing resources while adhering to security, privacy, and support standards. The evaluation process included technical testing, security reviews, pilot planning, and operational readiness activities. UGDSB identified FydeOS as a suitable platform for extending the lifecycle of selected devices. The structured deployment strategy consists of eight phases, including discovery, pilot planning, technical testing, security compliance, pilot deployment, evaluation, scaled deployment, and operational transition. The initiative aims to establish a governed lifecycle program for device reuse, ensuring that retired devices can continue to provide educational value while minimizing environmental impact. Future stages involve pilot deployment and further evaluations to determine the initiative's success.