As of the past couple of years, a strange phenomenon has been transpiring in schools, classes, and institutions around the country. At first glance, the differences are hard to notice, but taking a deeper look would reveal a shocking discovery. The desktop computers are being removed. That’s right, the glitchy, slow, but adored analog devices will soon no longer be with us. The unfortunate affair has been occurring ever since the controversial school-issued laptop’s arrival, unburdening the classic PC. In the advanced society of today, the computer just can’t keep up anymore, and the ever-improving technological world doesn’t have time to stop for stragglers. While they may not be a crucial part of our school lifestyle anymore, desktop computers will always hold a special place in the hearts of North Atlanta’s staff and students alike.
They may have been designed to be manipulated strictly for the purpose of education, but the presence of unrestricted internet access led to a more “carefree” use, specifically that of computer games. Cool Math and unblocked game sites were among the most popular with students, and games like Run, Papa’s Pizzeria, and Fireboy and Watergirl led to many cherished memories on the desktop computers. While many of these games and sites are still available on laptops, it was hard to beat the thrill of sneaking a quick game of Snake while the teacher was patrolling the room. “I remember getting put in time out for being on Cool Math during class in 4th grade,” said junior Noah Salzman. “Got my new high score on Burger Run though; very worth it.”
While there may have been a lot of play on the clunky computers, there was no shortage of work. Students were often required to take typing tests, math quizzes, and read online books when they could not be accessed on traditional paper. Although they weren’t the most efficient devices, they were able to get the job done and provide students with a tool to ace classes. “We used to have reading tests on the desktops all the time,” said junior Daniel Hunter. “It was clutch being able to type everything out instead of having to write it.”
The desktop computers truly embodied the spirit of the resourceful, diligent, and enthusiastic student during its tenure in classes around the world. While it will be sad to see them taken from the corner of the room, they spent so many amazing years in, it will be satisfying to know they were able to serve the students for as long as possible.