Web-Based Software provides student information database.
Press Release Summary:
With Open Database Connectivity, PowerSchool Premier integrates mission-critical applications demanded in K-12 environments, and delivers information to administrators, teachers, parents, and students for decision-making, reporting, and collaborative communications. Sybase SQL database allows software to support districts with large or complex student populations. Interoperability eliminates need to enter duplicate data in multiple applications.
Original Press Release:
PowerSchool Introduces New Database Option
Proven, Web-Based Applications With SQL Address Increasing Complexities, Provide Added Scalability and Flexibility
FOLSOM, Calif., Feb. 14 -- PowerSchool, a division of Apple and leading maker of web-based, student information systems (SIS), today announced general availability of PowerSchool Premier, which was developed for schools requiring a more scalable Structured Query Language (SQL) relational database. PowerSchool Premier leverages PowerSchool's proven technology to offer a mature solution that can meet the needs of schools and districts that are much larger, complex, or have more sophisticated technology requirements.
PowerSchool Premier is a result of PowerSchool's ongoing commitment to deliver one of the most flexible student information systems available today. Its "Open SIS" approach offers a web-based, hardware independent platform, enables compliance with the Schools Interoperability Framework (SIF), and now provides an even more powerful database.
"Student information systems are transforming from closed back-end administrative systems to dynamic decision-support systems. What were simple forms of automation and reporting must currently meet more complex operational and instructional requirements," said Bob Longo, PowerSchool's president. "Database choice is a key component of PowerSchool's Open SIS strategy to give our customers the flexibility and scalability to take full advantage of their student information."
PowerSchool's core system tightly integrates all of the mission-critical applications demanded in today's changing K-12 environments and responsively delivers critical information to administrators, teachers, parents and students for decision-making, operational efficiency, reporting and collaborative communications.
PowerSchool Premier delivers the following key benefits:
-- Complete Open Data Access -- Through the benefits of Open Database Connectivity (ODBC), school districts can easily integrate applications, create sophisticated reports, and tailor instruction to each student's needs.
-- Interoperability -- PowerSchool Premier includes a bundled SIF agent. Interoperability eliminates the need to enter duplicate data in multiple applications, which ultimately leads to greater operational efficiencies and significant cost savings.
-- Scalability/Reliability -- The robust Sybase SQL database allows PowerSchool Premier to support districts with much larger or complex student populations or that have more sophisticated strategic technology plans.
-- Application maturity and stability -- PowerSchool Premier offers the strengths of a SQL database coupled with the maturity of PowerSchool's technology. The user interface and application logic are identical to the proven PowerSchool SIS technology that currently supports millions of students in schools across the nation.
-- Low Total Cost of Ownership -- PowerSchool bundles all of the key applications, with the database of choice, into a single product license. PowerSchool requires a minimal hardware investment and offers a maintenance support program that includes new updates and new versions of the SIS.
"We have several SQL based applications where the source data resides in PowerSchool," said Dean Dahlvang, Director of IT for Proctor Independent School District #704, Proctor, Minnesota. "Now with PowerSchool Premier, I simply changed the connection stream, and in an instant, the data was there. This type of seamless integration between PowerSchool and other SQL based applications is critical not only for operational efficiencies, but for facilitating individualized instruction."
"PowerSchool is the hub of all student data in our district and Premier is enabling this to become even more the case," said Jamie Ramos, IIS Systems Coordinator, Kokomo Center Schools. "As we automate the integration with other SQL based applications and leverage sophisticated analytical tools, we will be able to more effectively drive, monitor and understand student performance."
Both PowerSchool Pro and PowerSchool Premier are available now. Schools and districts interested in learning more should call 1-877-873-1550.
PowerSchool, a division of Apple Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), provides web-based, SIF-compliant, student information systems (SIS) for schools and school districts. The well-established PowerSchool Pro delivers a comprehensive SIS feature set in an easy-to-use, low cost environment that is fully supported with training and technology support services. PowerSchool Premier, with a SQL database, offers those same benefits to school districts desiring flexibility in size, as well as industry standard data access and interoperability. Everyday millions of students, parents, teachers, and administrators can easily and cost-effectively access student information in order to develop smarter strategies and make better decisions because they have the power of PowerSchool. For more information, visit www.powerschool.com.
NOTE: Apple, the Apple logo and PowerSchool are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.
