PowerSchool is used to manage a lot of student information, make school administration easy. There are however other platforms that can meet the needs of some schools more effectively with unique features. In 2024, here is an overview of the best PowerSchool alternatives with special features among others.
Why switch to the best PowerSchool alternatives?
PowerSchool can be a great tool but sometimes schools might need something which is a little different, maybe an easier log-in system, real-time updates or better reporting options. The alternatives mentioned below highlight alternative features that could serve certain schools better.
1. NCEdCloud
Highlights: Single Sign-On (SSO), Resource Integration, Access for K-12 Schools.
NCEdCloud Login SSO allows students and teachers to sign in to all their school tools using one username and password. This allows them to access everything that they need without remembering countless logins. It is excellent for schools that have many digital, online resources.
Perfect for: Schools that have assembled dozens of apps and tools — gradebooks, homework sites, etc. — and want students and teachers to access everything in one spot.
2. Infinite Campus
Highlights: Family Portal, Real-Time Data, Grade Tracking
Being able to have a well-built family portal is why Infinite Campus is about connecting schools to families. Parents have access to their children’s attendance, grades, and assignments coming up. Schools love its browser-based dashboard that provides instant access to essential student information.
Usage Scenario: Some schools have a focus on parent engagement, which Infinite Campus meets with its real-time updates and a commitment to clarity.
3. Skyward
Highlights: Financial Management, Attendance Tracking, Scheduling Tools
Skyward makes a great option for schools that want to track student information and finances, too. In addition to normal student data, it handles things like attendance, fees, lunch accounts, and other financial things.
Usage Scenario: Schools needing to integrate student information, financial information including fees and lunch balances.
4. Alma
Best For: Custom Reports, Data Tracking, and Personalization.
Alma also gives the ability to make detailed reports and track who is progressing where, in a way that can actually be tailored to the needs of the school. It is customizable because teachers and administrators can alter the system to display the data they need the most.
Perfect For: Includes schools that need more personalized tracking of student progress, as well as those that need report generating capabilities on specific data points.