Kirsten Baesler Superintendent | North Dakota Department of Public Instruction
Beginning in October, Infinite Campus will collaborate with Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to implement a new student information system (SIS). This initiative is part of BRIDGE, the state's K-12 data modernization solution.
The Infinite Campus implementation team has identified several key preparations to ensure a smooth transition to the new SIS. These are termed "extra credit" opportunities and include specific steps for seamless data migration.
One step involves cleaning up existing data in PowerSchool. It is essential to ensure that data is clean and consistent. Focus areas include reviewing addresses for consistency in abbreviations and spelling, verifying guardianship information, ensuring contact information accuracy, and removing special characters or system-generated prefixes from names and other fields.
Another step is taking inventory of existing reports used in PowerSchool. Identifying which reports are needed in Infinite Campus will help prepare users to create and utilize new reporting features once the system goes live. Training on generating custom reports will be available at that time.
Additionally, it is important to inventory current third-party vendors that will integrate with Infinite Campus. For each vendor, having a list of administrators with their contact details, logins for vendor portals, and information on any data exchanges between current systems and vendors is crucial. This inventory will assist the implementation team in configuring integrations and streamlining the setup process.
Completing these tasks prepares users for the implementation of Infinite Campus SIS and aligns them with BRIDGE's goals. This preparation supports a smooth transition aimed at improving data quality, streamlining reporting, and enhancing outcomes for students across North Dakota.