Pre-vetted tools are rated in several categories

Educators seeking new technology can start by consulting a database of pre-vetted edtech tools, rated based on alignment with both child data privacy laws and the district’s instructional vision. Each entry includes notes about what the software does, how it can be used in the classroom, and the appropriate age level. Kaye is also working on aligning the database to the ISTE Standards so teachers can see at a glance which standards each tool can help them meet.

Every app falls into one of four categories:

• Tools the district approves, supports, pays for, and will train teachers to use.
• Tools that are approved and can be freely used on an independent basis.
• Tools that are approved with stipulations, such as age or parental permission requirements.
• Tools that are not approved because they don’t align with the district’s vision or data privacy needs.

Teachers can request to have a tool vetted

Teachers who choose a pre-vetted app from the approved list can start using it right away, without any further action needed. Educators who have a specific tool in mind that hasn’t yet been vetted can submit a request form that asks questions such as:

• How does the tool connect to the curriculum?
• Will students be consumers or producers when using it?
• How easy is it to learn and use?
• What are some of the things they plan on doing with it?