Top 5 Best Student Information Systems for Schools in 2021
As educational institutions continue to shift towards digital platforms, schools have been looking for ways to streamline their administrative processes. Student Information Systems (SIS) are becoming increasingly popular in schools as they provide a centralized database for student data, helping schools manage attendance, grades, schedules, and other crucial information.
Choosing the right SIS for your school can be challenging, with numerous vendors offering multiple features. In this blog post, we’ve narrowed down the top 5 best student information systems for schools in 2021 to help you make an informed decision.
1. PowerSchool
PowerSchool is the leading SIS provider for K-12 schools and offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including attendance tracking, grading, and online registration. It also includes a parent portal, allowing parents to track their child’s progress. PowerSchool’s seamless integration with other systems enables schools to customize their dashboard, ensuring they have a personalized experience that works for them.
In addition to the core features, PowerSchool offers a variety of add-ons such as special education management, analytics and reporting, and student safety solutions to enhance your school’s operations.
2. Infinite Campus
Infinite Campus offers a cloud-based SIS that allows schools to manage student information from anywhere, anytime. The system provides easy access to student data and includes features such as attendance, grade books, and academic reporting. School districts can opt to add on features such as transportation management or cafeteria management to streamline their operations further.
Infinite Campus’ mobile app provides real-time access to student data, enabling teachers to monitor student progress and update grades from their mobile devices. Additionally, teachers can communicate with parents and students via the app for improved engagement.
3. Skyward
Skyward is another cloud-based provider that offers a comprehensive suite of tools such as online registration, enrollment management, and grade books. It also features a parent portal that allows parents to monitor their child’s progress and stay informed.
One of Skyward’s unique features is its Student Management Suite, allowing schools to manage data beyond academic records, such as behavioral data and health records. This feature enables schools to identify students who may require additional support, making it an excellent choice for schools looking for a more holistic approach.
4. Alma
Alma is a relatively new player in the market, but it has rapidly gained popularity among schools due to ease of use. The SIS features a user-friendly interface and powerful tools, including attendance tracking, grade books, and report cards.
Alma’s educators portal allows teachers to communicate easily with parents and students, providing updates on grades and upcoming assignments. The system also includes a mobile app that lets teachers manage their daily tasks from anywhere, improving efficiency and productivity.
5. Gradelink
Gradelink offers a cloud-based SIS designed specifically for small and medium-sized schools. The system’s intuitive interface makes it easy to learn and use, with features such as scheduling, attendance tracking, and grade books. Gradelink also includes a parent portal, allowing parents to stay informed about their child’s progress.
One of Gradelink’s unique features is an integrated Admissions component, which allows schools to manage the entire admissions process, from initial application to enrollment. This feature is particularly useful for schools that are growing quickly or undergoing expansion.
In conclusion, choosing an SIS can be challenging, with multiple vendors offering numerous features. However, the above list of best student information systems for schools in 2021 should help guide you towards the right choice for your school. By selecting an SIS that provides seamless integration, customizable dashboards, and reliable support, you’ll be able to manage your school’s data more efficiently, saving time, and improving student outcomes.
