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Board approves SchoolLinks platform and CodeHS computer‑science program
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Summary
Albany County School District #1 trustees approved a college-and‑career readiness platform (SchoolLinks) and districtwide adoption of CodeHS for computer science after educator teams presented vetting results, cybersecurity checks and professional‑development plans.
Albany County School District #1 trustees voted to adopt SchoolLinks as a college and career readiness platform and to continue/expand use of CodeHS for computer science instruction.
Educators who reviewed vendors described a structured vetting process including educator metrics, student testing of interfaces and technology/cybersecurity review. Presenters emphasized features they judged most important: middle‑school tools and interest inventories, a four‑year planning function that can integrate with PowerScheduler and PowerSchool, ACT‑prep tools, and regional internship and mentorship listings.
Mister George and the counselor review team said SchoolLinks ranked highest for usability and the ability to track student progress from middle school through graduation. Miss Dale noted the platform’s communication features that let counselors and parents see pathway progress and volunteer/internship hours. Technology staff confirmed SchoolLinks had the strongest cybersecurity and PowerSchool‑integration profile among candidates.
For computer science, the review team evaluated Project Lead The Way, CodeHS and others and recommended CodeHS because of its range of curriculum options, teacher supports, lesson plans and on‑platform professional development. Presenters said CodeHS allows differentiated work across students and offers ready teacher resources and support.
Trustees asked about parent onboarding and mentorship continuity. Reviewers said rollout will begin with counselor and staff training this spring and transition over the summer, with family communications planned during incoming‑freshman onboarding. Board members praised the teacher‑led review process and moved to approve both purchases and associated budget items; motions passed on voice votes.
The purchases will be funded from the proposed budget lines presented to the board; computer science funding will be supported by Perkins funds when applicable. Staff will deliver training and onboarding plans and report back on initial rollouts and usage metrics.
