While the debate of its pronunciation still stands, most would agree that ever since the implementation of Schoology, things have been running smoothly for students and teachers who use it as an online resource and classroom for students.

After SchoolFusion was set to be eliminated on Dec. 31, 2017, a Glen Rock Public Schools committee of teachers and administrators piloted multiple options. The district had planned on replacing SchoolFusion since around the fall of 2016. Schoology was implemented on Dec. 8, 2017 because it is an ideal learning hub that will eventually consolidate all curriculum online resources. Funding for the program is based on an annual fee integrated into the district’s budgeting process.

“It will prepare students for the college experience as learning management systems are used on all college campuses,” said Dr. Kathleen Regan.

Several positive opinions on Schoology have been expressed by multiple Glen Rock High School users. The platform is designed to be reminiscent of social media for a user-friendly experience. It is also linked to Google allowing for the integration of Docs, Slides, and other platforms.

“So far I like Schoology. I plan to roll out Schoology in place of Google classroom next semester,” said Ms. Mara Siegel, an art teacher.

However, the new environment, while designed to be user-friendly, is taking some getting used to for some students. In particular, Jack Ferreri (‘20) expressed difficulty in ignoring its limitations and complications.

“Some of my favorite Schoology features are the integrated calendar and the announcements,” he said, “but it’s harder for me to access documents and PowerPoints.”

This is likely due to the simplicity of Google classroom that several students have grown accustomed to. Google classroom was a compelling resource for many students and teachers.

“So far my favorite platform has been Google classroom,” expressed Siegel. “I like that students can work collaboratively on one document. Google classroom also allows students to easily upload videos to an assignment, while Schoology does not.”

Although Google classroom was considered, the staff did not see it fit to become the district’s primary learning platform.

Schoology does have several tools designed to function in similar ways to Google Classroom, so it can be assumed that in the coming months once the student and teacher bodies grow accustomed to it, the integration of multiple functions and features will lead Schoology to be deemed a district-wide success.

“My experience with Schoology has been OK, but I just haven’t figured everything out yet,” Ferreri said.