Laptop Shortages Leave School Districts Scrambling

A Rapid Shift to Remote Learning

School districts across the country are scrambling to equip students with laptops as many schools begin the year partially or fully online. Some schools were expecting to have in-person learning in the fall, and made the decision to move online just weeks before school started. They are now ordering laptops and facing delays due to supply chain disruptions and surging demand.

In Florida, Texas, New Jersey, Missouri, Nevada, Alabama, and other states, tens of thousands of students may not have the devices they need to start school.

Low-Cost Laptops Are Scarce

Supplies are particularly tight for low-cost laptops. The Chromebook, made by Google (GOOGL), costs less than $300, and is a very popular computer for school districts and parents to purchase for students. Even before the pandemic, about 30 million Chromebooks were used in schools across the world. That number skyrocketed as schools moved online, and Chromebook manufacturers are struggling to keep up with the spike in demand.

At Best Buy (BBY), only about 16% of laptops available cost less than $500. Wealthier parents can splurge on laptops for their children this year, but low-income students whose school districts are unable to provide laptops for them may face significant hardships as school begins. Educators are worried about the long-term impact this year could have on many students’ futures.

Districts Find Creative Solutions

School districts and teachers are going to great lengths to find creative ways to deal with the laptop shortage and ensure that students get the support they need.

Some are adapting their educational tools so they can be used on mobile phones, not just on laptops. For students who do not have access to WiFi, some districts are using school busses as hotspots. Many districts are hopeful that their laptops will arrive soon, but until then, students, parents, and teachers, are up against yet another challenge as they begin a school year like no other.

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.
The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.
Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Advisor
SoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.
SOSS083102