Case Study
Thompson Schools Saves Big: Chrome OS Migration Slashes Time & Costs
Thompson School District is deeply committed to advancing digital access and equity for every student.
This unwavering dedication finds its powerful ally in Vivacity and the agile, secure, and collaborative world of Chrome. For Thompson, the shift from a complex, legacy Windows environment to the streamlined efficiency of Chrome isn't just an upgrade; it's a paradigm shift that redefines student access, operational savings, and future-ready learning. Thompson School District, serving over 15,000 K-12 students across 29 schools, is a beacon of innovation in Colorado. Their "Tech4All 1:1" program, a cornerstone of the Strive 2025 strategic roadmap, is dedicated to equipping every student with the devices they need to thrive.
The Challenge
Untangling the Web of a Legacy Windows Environment
For years, Thompson School District found itself caught in the limitations of a Windows-based environment. This legacy system, while familiar, presented significant hurdles to their vision of equitable 1:1 device access and efficient technology management.
The district grappled with:
- Fragmented Device Ecosystem & Operational Complexity
In an effort to meet evolving classroom needs, the district had gradually introduced a mix of devices—including 11 different Chromebook models and 9 iPad models—without a unified, scalable refresh strategy. This piecemeal approach led to a wide variety of device types, increasing complexity for IT management and maintenance. Juggling multiple models created a logistical nightmare for IT staff. - Limited 1:1 Access
The dream of providing every student with a device was financially and operationally challenging. - Security Vulnerabilities
A Windows environment presented persistent concerns about viruses and cyber threats—an especially critical issue for K-12 schools, which are now ranked as the leading target for ransomware attacks. - Soaring IT Management Costs
Time-consuming maintenance and costly deployments stretched already tight budgets.
The Solution
A Strategic Alliance with Vivacity and the Power of Chrome
Thompson School District embarked on a transformative partnership with Vivacity, shifting their entire approach to student device management. This wasn’t just about replacing devices; it was about building a strategic, scalable, and sustainable plan anchored in the simplicity and power of Chrome.
"Through Vivacity's consultation, we were able to identify the right device configurations for each grade level," notes Kelly Sain, Chief Technology Officer at Thompson School District. "Their expertise helped us balance budget constraints with educational needs so we could make student-centered decisions. In addition, most of the teachers opted in when they saw the Chromebook Plus."
Seamless Student Device Management Plan
Vivacity helped Thompson streamline their device inventory, moving from a complex mix of models to a simplified, grade-level-specific Chromebook strategy. This approach ensured that each student received the most appropriate device for their learning needs, all while aligning with a sustainable four-year refresh cycle.
"Once you find somebody who is willing to listen and understand how to make all of these different connections—interoperability—that's like gold," Sain emphasizes. "Working with a vendor who believes in students was one of the main reasons why we ended up going with Vivacity."
Repair Academy: Student-Led Device Repairs & Career Readiness Path
Beyond device standardization, procurement, and deployment, Vivacity partnered with Thompson to revolutionize device maintenance. The innovative Repair Academy transformed a traditional cost center into a powerful career readiness program, empowering students with hands-on technical skills and real-world experience.
"The Repair Academy was one of the main reasons why we went with Vivacity," said Sain. "Our students get valuable work because we have apprentices and interns that help us manage all our fleet."
This student-led initiative not only minimizes device downtime and repair costs but also cultivates a new generation of IT professionals—with some graduates even joining the district’s IT team.
"Once you find somebody who is willing to listen and understand how to make all of these different connections—interoperability—that's like gold. Working with a vendor who believes in students was one of the main reasons why we ended up going with Vivacity."
The Results
Unlocking Efficiency, Security, and Student Potential
The strategic shift to a Chrome environment, facilitated by Vivacity, delivered profound and measurable benefits for Thompson School District:
Four-Year Chromebook Refresh with Considerable Time & Cost Savings
By moving away from reactive, year-to-year purchases, Thompson achieved a sustainable refresh cycle—maximizing their budget and ensuring consistent access to up-to-date technology. The inherent affordability and simplified management of Chromebooks freed up resources previously consumed by a complex Windows infrastructure.
"To be able to go 1:1 without having to hire additional IT staff speaks to the efficiency and simplicity of running a Chrome environment," confirms Sain.
Seamless & Secure Chromebook Deployment
What once took months now takes mere days. The deployment of Thompson's entire Chromebook fleet across 29 schools was completed in just three days, with devices ready for student use on day one. The Google Admin Console significantly reduced the workload on IT staff while eliminating security vulnerabilities that plagued their previous Windows environment.
"With Chrome, [viruses] are virtually non-existent," notes Sain, emphasizing the peace of mind that comes with enhanced security. "Overall, Chromebooks and Chromebook Plus devices are easier to use and manage from a Mobile Device Management (MDM) point of view."
Enhanced Chromebook Durability & Cost Savings
A combination of Vivacity’s expertise in recommending durable device models, along with protective cases and blue light-blocking screen protectors, led to a 50% reduction in device damage. This extended the lifespan of devices and reduced repair costs—further amplifying the district’s savings.
Empowering Educators & Students
The cloud-based nature of Chrome empowers both staff and students. Teachers can quickly swap devices when needed without losing instructional time or dealing with complex software reinstallations. Meanwhile, students gained valuable IT skills through Vivacity’s Repair Academy, which created a clear career pathway—some graduates even joined the district’s IT team.
"Our focus is to ensure that our students do not enter the workforce at a disadvantage," declares Sain.
Students aren’t just consumers of technology—they’re active participants in its maintenance and evolution. And they prefer the Chrome experience: anywhere, anytime access, collaboration, and reliability.
The Results
Unlocking Efficiency, Security, and Student Potential
The strategic shift to a Chrome environment, facilitated by Vivacity, delivered profound and measurable benefits for Thompson School District:
One Collaborative Thompson + Vivacity EdTech Partnership
Vivacity has become more than a vendor; they are an extension of Thompson's technology team, deeply invested in the district's digital transformation. Vivacity’s seamless Chromebook deployment ensures devices are ready on day one, and the Repair Academy training is empowering students and staff to handle in-house device repairs.
“Partnering with Thompson School District has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Their students have visited our Thornton facility multiple times to explore what a day in the life of a computer technician looks like — from touring our workspace and meeting our team to participating in mock interviews with our managers. The students’ enthusiasm for the field is contagious, and I always walk away from these visits inspired by the incredible work Thompson’s staff is doing to spark career curiosity and opportunity for their students.”
Ready to Transform Your Device Management?
Join thousands of K-12 schools who've simplified their Chromebook management.