I personally dont use crates expecially if you are gone most of the day... maybe you could consider the
www.pottypatch.com , this way he cant chew it up and it will get him familar with grass for outside training. I think its great that you use an expen...The potty patch is sold at petco as well I believe it is 39.00, much cheaper in the long run then pee pads, expecially now that he is only a puppy he will get used to it fast.
I would make sure you get up super early and give him a good play session, to tire him out, make sure he has a kong or a bully stick to keep him busy for chewing. I know he is to young to go for walks now but after he has completed his shots try to take him for a good long walk before you leave for school , when your boyfriend comes home have him do an additional play session before he puts him in the expen. That should tire him out and he will want to rest!!