Digital tools are selected to support clearly defined learning goals, align with MA state curriculum standards, and deepen student understanding.
Technology in the Classroom
This information was compiled by educators in the WPS Office of Innovation, which is separate from the Information Technology Department.
At Worcester Public Schools, we believe technology should enhance (not replace) the relationships, creativity, and curiosity that make authentic learning possible. When used with care and intention, digital tools can help students think deeply, connect meaningfully, and prepare for an ever changing world.
Our approach to selection, professional development, and usage reflects our district’s Vision of a Learner: to help every student build the mindsets and skills they need to thrive, now and in the future. These values ensure that students are supported in becoming empowered, purposeful, and connected learners. In particular, we emphasize the importance of:
Learning with Intention
Connection Before Screens
We prioritize meaningful human connection. Whether students are building relationships with teachers and peers or engaging with global communities, technology is used to amplify student voice and belonging.
Active Collaborative Learning
We look for tools that encourage students to collaborate, problem-solve, and create, helping them grow as effective communicators and team members.
Balanced Experiences
We believe that screen time should be carefully balanced with hands-on learning, physical activity, and rich discussion to ensure a healthy and developmentally appropriate learning experience.
Future Ready Skills with Humanity in Mind
Technology helps students think critically, engage ethically, and make connections to the world around them. We support students in becoming thoughtful digital citizens who are ready for the future.
Educator-Guided and Student-Centered
Our professional learning equips educators to create inclusive, innovative learning environments that bring the Vision of a Learner to life.
Protecting Student Privacy and Data
We are deeply committed to keeping students safe—both online and offline. Every app or tool we approve must meet strict data privacy and safety standards, including:
Data Privacy Agreements
Every tool used must have a signed and legally binding Student Data Privacy Agreement, in compliance with FERPA and COPPA regulations.
No Personal Data Sharing
Data Privacy Agreements ensure that companies cannot collect, use, or share personally identifiable student information (PII) for commercial purposes.
Privacy agreements are available for caregiver review at : (SDPA status). Please note: the list is sortable and includes both approved and unapproved apps, with reasons provided for any that were declined.
How We Select Digital Tools for Student Use
Technology tools used in Worcester classrooms must support both academic achievement and the development of Vision of a Learner skills. They come from two primary sources:
District Selected Tools
These are integrated into core instructional programs or selected as enhancements to teaching & learning. They are reviewed for alignment to curriculum goals and transferable Vision of a Learner skills like critical thinking and collaboration.
Educator - Requested Tools
Teachers may use tools they believe will enrich student learning. If these tools require a login, these requests are evaluated for instructional value, alignment to the Vision of a Learner, and compliance with privacy policies.
All approved tools must:
Support students in creating, collaborating, thinking critically, or connecting
Be age-appropriate and instructionally relevant
Meet privacy and security standards
Enhance strong teaching practices
Partnering with Families
Families play a vital role in helping students develop strong digital habits, both in and out of school. We encourage caregivers to:
Ask your child what they’re creating, exploring, or collaborating on at school
Balance screen time at home with reading, physical activity, and conversation
Talk regularly about digital safety, kindness, and responsible device use
If you have questions about how technology is used in your child’s classroom, we welcome your partnership. Together, we can ensure that every student’s experience with technology supports their growth as curious, confident, and connected learners.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Worcester Public Schools
Our use of AI—whether in instruction, teacher productivity, or student learning—is guided by the same values that shape all technology use:
AI use must support clear learning goals aligned to the MA state standards and/or Vision of a Learner
AI tools must comply with all student data privacy laws (FERPA, COPPA, CIPA)
We will continue to monitor AI developments and provide guidance and professional development that ensures student safety, educational benefit, and alignment with our core values.
District Selected Tools
Amplify CKLA: A knowledge-rich core ELA curriculum that integrates print and digital tools to build foundational reading and critical thinking skills.
Amplify mCLASS: A diagnostic literacy assessment system that provides real-time data to inform foundational reading instruction in early grades.
Amplify Reading: An adaptive reading program that supports fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary growth through research-based instruction.
Canva: A digital creation tool that empowers students to design, communicate, and express ideas visually across content areas.
Clever: A secure single sign-on portal that simplifies student and teacher access to all district-approved digital tools.
Code.org: A free platform that introduces students to computer science and problem-solving through creative, age-appropriate coding activities.
CodeMonkey: A coding platform that introduces students to computer science and problem-solving through fun, interactive game-based learning.
DeltaMath: A math practice tool that provides scaffolded, standards-aligned problems to build procedural fluency and conceptual understanding.
Desmos Graphing Calculator: An interactive tool that promotes mathematical exploration, modeling, and visualization through real-time graphing.
Edmentum: A digital curriculum and assessment platform that offers personalized learning paths, credit recovery, and standards-aligned instruction to support academic growth and flexible learning options.
Gale Databases: A suite of academic research tools that help students develop information literacy, critical thinking, and research skills across disciplines.
Generation Genius: Standards-aligned science and math videos and activities that spark curiosity and deepen understanding through real-world connections and inquiry-based learning.
Gizmos (ExploreLearning): Interactive science and math simulations that allow students to visualize and experiment with complex concepts.
Google Apps for Education: A suite of cloud-based tools (Docs, Slides, Sheets) that foster real-time collaboration, writing, and digital literacy.
Google Classroom: A collaborative learning hub where teachers share assignments, feedback, and resources to support blended instruction.
Illuminate Education (Renaissance DnA): A formative and summative assessment platform that supports standards-based instruction and progress monitoring.
Imagine Language & Literacy: An adaptive literacy program that supports multilingual learners and early readers through personalized instruction in foundational language skills.
Naviance: A college and career readiness platform that helps students explore interests, set goals, and plan pathways to their postsecondary futures.
Nearpod: An interactive presentation and engagement tool that blends live teaching with formative assessment and multimedia.
Read&Write: literacy and accessibility software designed to help individuals with reading and writing tasks
Renaissance (myON, Freckle, Star Assessments): A reading and math ecosystem that personalizes practice and assessment while tracking growth and proficiency.
Seesaw: A digital learning journal that allows students to capture, reflect on, and share their learning through multimedia portfolios.
Sora by OverDrive: A student-friendly digital reading app that gives access to a wide variety of eBooks and audiobooks, promoting independent and lifelong reading habits.
Soundtrap: A digital audio studio that allows students to compose, record, and edit music or podcasts, fostering creativity, storytelling, and collaboration.
ST Math: A visual, game-based platform that builds deep conceptual understanding in math through problem solving and perseverance.
StudySync: A comprehensive, standards-aligned ELA curriculum that blends literature, writing, and collaboration to promote analytical thinking.
Typetastic: A keyboarding tool that builds foundational typing skills through playful and age-appropriate digital games.
iPads and Chromebooks
Worcester Public Schools believes that access to the digital learning experiences is at the forefront of educational equity. For this reason, we commit to providing a device to every student at no cost to families. We strive to create a community of empowered learners who use technology to reduce barriers, access information, and participate in current and future digital environments.
iPads
Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten use iPads. An iPad is a tablet that relies on the Internet for many functions and automatically saves students' work from most apps safely on the Internet. When a student signs into an iPad using their WPS Google account, it is easy to find their previous work, access Seesaw with assignments, and complete assignments using a variety of apps and websites.
Chromebooks
Students in Grades 1-12 use Chromebooks. A Chromebook is a laptop that relies on the Internet for many functions and automatically saves students' work from most apps safely on the Internet. When a student signs into a Chromebook using their WPS google account, it is easy to access and complete assignments using a variety of apps and websites.
ParentSquare
ParentSquare is the district’s two-way communications platform that provides instant translations in 100+ languages. To learn more, use the link below.
WooEdu Family Portal
Welcome to the WooEdu Campus Student and Campus Parent portals!
WooEdu is powered by Infinite Campus, which puts school information at your fingertips with real-time access to announcements, assignments, attendance, grades, schedules, and more.
To get started, click through the guides below and download the Campus Student and Campus Parent Apps in the Apple or Google Play Stores.