Powerschool system puts Northwestern students in cyberspace

There’s a new way to stay sharp in school this year. Northwestern Regional High School’s new online program, Powerschool, allows teachers to post their students’ grades online for both the student and their parents to view.

Each Northwestern student has received a username and password to log on to the system, providing access to their grades.

Northwestern head of guidance, Bruce Van Valen, said the main reason for creating the program was "to improve communication with parents, to let parents see an easier way to communicate with kids in school."

Teachers say they are in favor of Powerschool.

"It’s great for parents to keep track of their students...and e-mail teachers with questions and concerns," said Western Civilization teacher Robin Waring.

Powerschool seems to be beneficial for many students.

"Yes, I use it, I like it," sophomore Marissa Vasko said. "I like seeing my grades ahead of time."

Sage Hahn, freshman, said, "I view my grades almost once a week because it helps me keep track of the classes I need help in, and the classes I’m doing well in."

Though many students enjoy using the system, some feel Powerschool isn’t necessary. Freshman Alyssa Cassenelli said, "No, I don’t care to see my grades, I already know my grades."

Powerschool may sound ideal to the majority of students, but there is a downside to the system.

"There are two potential flaws," said Van Valen. "Parents don’t always go online and look [at student’s grades], and teachers can’t always post [the assignments] as quickly as they’d like. For example, U.S. history teachers’ term papers will necessarily take awhile to grade and post."

Some students agree with Van Valen. Parents are not viewing their children’s grades as often as they might.

"My parents don’t look at mine," said sophomore Caitlin Lawrence.

Northwestern officials say they hope more parents will utilize Powerschool.

"Communication with parents is important," Van Valen said.