Google Recognizes Strongsville Schools

STRONGSVILLE, OH — The Strongsville Schools have earned a rare and distinct honor. The district was named a Google for Education Reference District, making it one of the first school systems in Northeast Ohio to earn the honor.

Google for Education Reference Districts demonstrate "excellence and thought leadership" through the innovative use of technology, according to a statement from the school district. That innovative use includes the G Suite for Education (the suite formerly known as GoogleApps for Education) and Chromebooks. Reference districts are offered the opportunity to host Google-sponsored events and test Google products.

To receive the distinction, the district had to complete a rigorous application process that showed its commitment to technology. In a detailed "Stories of Impact" slideshow, school officials laid out the plan to issue Chromebooks to 100 percent of Strongsville High School students (freshmen currently have a 1:1 ratio with Chromebooks). The district also wants to the elementary and middle schools to be at an 80 percent ratio of students to Chromebooks, a goal the district has achieved.

The district also created stipended positions to help teachers utilize Google technology in classrooms. Staff and students have also adopted a Gmail system.

“We are proud to be recognized as a Google for Education Reference District. Our District has worked extremely hard to continue to integrate technology, and, specifically, the many wonderful learning resources Google has to offer, into all classrooms. Our teachers and administration are embracing the ways technology can lead to even greater learning for our students, and our students have been utilizing the very latest tools to enhance their knowledge and mastery of subjects,” said Vicki Turner, director of instructional technology for Strongsville City Schools in a statement.

“This recognition for Strongsville City Schools is very meaningful. We appreciate the many tools and resources that Google provides to support student development and growth. It is not just the Google designation, but the day-to-day work that is being featured in our classrooms, that further contributes to preparing our students for college and career,” said Ryba.

Photo from Strongsville Schools, Google