ALSDE Supports Local Systems to Fully Implement PowerSchool Dr. Eric Mackey
Alabama State Superintendent of Education We are finally beginning to establish some sense of normalcy, after what can only be described as one of the most challenging school years ever. We do so with cautious optimism and a great amount of appreciation for the teachers, administrators, staff, and others who have so diligently helped get students back in school. In addition to reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are also beginning the implementation of PowerSchool, the state’s new student information system program. Full implementation, and understanding, of any new piece of statewide technology is always difficult. Implementation during a pandemic is even harder. I am a former teacher, vice-principal, principal, local superintendent, and I have been through a myriad of new student information systems over the years. From Osirus, to STI-Local, to STIState, to I-Now… and now to PowerSchool, I am familiar with both the excitement and the headache that learning the insand-outs of a new student management system brings. Each one comes with challenges and opportunities. There is always a learning curve and I want to take this opportunity to let you know how much I appreciate the hard work and determination you have put into getting to know this new system. On top of the daily responsibilities and challenges that come from just running a school, you now have the additional responsibility of learning a new student management system. It 20
is difficult. We understand that and are committed to supporting schools and school systems through the arc of this learning curve. Our commitment to continually provide intensive training, professional development, resources, and support as the state familiarizes itself with this new system is unwavering. In mid-November, we partnered with the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) to provide Principals with targeted training to address specific issues or concerns. The Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) subject-matter experts provided information on resources, level data and PowerSchool Support Models, PowerSchool updates, and more. In the coming months the ALSDE will provide training videos and tutorials that can be accessed at any time to give end-users specific instruction on some of the most common issues experienced with PowerSchool implementation.
We firmly believe that PowerSchool, once its full potential is truly realized, will forever change student information management, and district’s ability to efficiently manage instruction, learning, grading, attendance, assessment, analytics, reporting, and other facets of school management. Unlocking PowerSchool’s full potential in ways that are unique to individual school systems will revolutionize student information management. We understand that there are some areas of the state that need more training and specific training, and we are committed to being there every step of the way.
