It wipes data, it’s often not worth it (usually CBs for k12 are 16gb rom). When I managed my admin console I ran Linux on a CB to help resolve an issue we had with Zoom due to device limitations, but Linux at the time was still crippled by no correct access to microphone, which may have since changed. It’s a school device, just leave it be. You’re going to come up on state standardized testing time which means they’ll likely lock down your updates to prevent any further ones from applying. Plus you’ll most likely create a situation where the device will have to be power washed and reset again to comply with secure browsers.

Most likely developer mode was left open as certain programming classes required it to be open in order to run some interface I can’t remember.