System connects parents, schools

Parents of children in nine Albany diocesan Catholic schools can access vital school-related information quickly and accurately, thanks to web-based "PowerSchool" software being implemented.

According to the diocesan Catholic Schools Office, Pearson School System's PowerSchool is a leading student information system, designed for K-12 schools.

It has several features, including scheduling, grade book, attendance, parent access and state reporting. Parents, students, teachers and administrators can use the system to share information about grades, attendance records and homework assignments.

Database

"PowerSchool has a centralized database that ensures that data are exchanged in real time and delivers the most current information available on a particular student," said Sister Mary Jane Herb, superintendent.

For example, when teachers enter attendance information or scores, that information is immediately available to parents.

"Parents can keep track of classroom assignments and view grades on important assignments as soon as teachers post them," Sister Jane explained.

Meeting goals

"PowerSchool will help us meet goals set as part of our strategic plan and Middle States Accreditation," said Theresa Ewell, principal of St. Catherine of Siena School in Albany. "Communication with parents about student progress is essential for student achievement," she added. "There are many benefits to having information available at any time, at home, work or school."

PowerSchool is up and running at nine schools: Bishop Maginn and St. Catherine of Siena, Albany; St. Mary's, Amsterdam; St. Patrick's, Catskill; St. Thomas, Delmar; St. Mary/St. Alphonsus, Glens Falls; Notre Dame-Bishop Gibbons, Schenectady; Catholic Central, Troy; and St. Brigid's, Watervliet.

It is anticipated that the program will be installed in the 21 remaining schools by the fall of 2008.

(10/26/06)