LURAY, Va. — A social media trend that encourages intentional short-circuiting of school-issued property has reached Page County. Local officials hope to stop the trend before more damage is done.
The “prank,” known as the “Chromebook Challenge,” involves jamming items (such as paper clips) into USB ports of Chromebooks, causing them to short-circuit and, in some cases, catch fire.
Such damage has been reported by school districts in other states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Maryland.
In a May 9, 2025, letter to families, Page County Public Schools (PCPS) Superintendent Dr. Antonia Fox issued the following statement:
From time to time, we reach out to families to raise awareness about issues that directly impact our students, staff, and schools. In conjunction with the Page County Sheriff’s Office, we have become aware of a concerning trend on TikTok that encourages students to insert objects into their Chromebooks, resulting in significant damage. Unfortunately, this dangerous trend has now reached our community.
Despite proactive steps, including small group meetings and direct warnings from school administration, it is unfortunate that an incident involving intentional Chromebook vandalism related to this trend has occurred.
The letter did not specify where or when the Chromebook vandalism occurred within the PCPS system, but went on to warn parents and students of consequences.
Should a student choose to participate in this reckless behavior, you, as the parent or legal guardian of the student, are advised that the following will occur:
Any student found damaging school property, including Chromebooks, will face serious disciplinary actions. This includes charges of vandalism, which may affect a student’s record.
The Page County Commonwealth’s Attorney will be utilizing the following state of Virginia codes – 18.2-137 (intent to destroy government property creating damage) and 18.2-138 (destruction of property).
Students will be held financially responsible for any damages caused. Payment for repairs or replacement of the damaged property will be required.
Students will have restricted access to extracurricular activities as defined by any referral given.
The letter went on to ask students and parents for their support in stopping this trend in its tracks.
If you or your child hears of any students who may voice they are going to participate in this challenge, we ask that you report this information to the school, report it on the StopIt app, or share it with law enforcement.
This week, a New Jersey high school student was charged after damaging a Chromebook to the point of causing it to ignite. An Oklahoma school district reported that at least nine Chromebooks are out of commission due to vandalism. Prince George’s County Public Schools confirmed 10 incidents. On Thursday, a Connecticut middle school student was rushed to the hospital following a fire that police believe was part of the trend.
Schools use Chromebooks due to their ease of management, collaboration, and security features. Classroom resources and subject materials are hosted on the cloud and can be easily accessed from anywhere. The cost of replacing a school-issued laptop can be as much as $400.