New Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services for Barrington 220 Staff and Students

“Where does he get those wonderful toys?”

At Barrington 220, we believe that technology should empower our teachers and students, providing them with the tools to create, collaborate, and thrive in a digital learning environment. Each month we will announce the newly approved apps, Google APIs, and software services now available district wide.

What’s New and Approved?

After careful evaluation and feedback from our staff and technology team, we have curated a list of apps and services that align with our educational goals and data privacy standards.

Apps for Creativity and Workflow

• MiCollab for Mobile: (iPadOS and macOS) Mobile app that supports our Mitel phone system. (Staff)
• MirrorTalk: Reflection with AI: (iPadOS) MirrorTalk allows students to connect with an AI-powered bot that helps students reflect on their work. (Students 6–12, Staff)
• FigJam: Whiteboard & Draw: (iPadOS) A versatile tool for collaborative brainstorming and creation. (Students 9–12, Staff)
• Adobe Aero: (iPadOS) Adobe Aero uses AR to connect students with content. (Students K–5, Staff)
• Visualizer: (macOS) App that connects with iPEVO cameras. (Staff)

Apps to Support Content

• Stage|Tracks: (iPadOS and macOS) Allows users to control, automate, and customize audio tracks for performances. (Students 6–12, Staff)
• Piascore - Smart Music Score: (iPadOS) Digital sheet music library. (Students 6–12, Staff)
• Pearson+: (iPadOS) Supports access to Pearson eTextbooks. (Students 9–12, Staff)
• Heart Zones Move: (iPadOS) App that connects with heart zone monitors. (Students 9–12, Staff)

Google APIs

• Screencastify: Screen recording software with added tools. (Staff)
• Carnegie Mellon Computer Science: Computer science curriculum: free for all, designed for you. (Staff)
• Cricut: Software for smart cutting machines. (Staff)

Software Services

• Nearpod 21st Century Readiness: (App and Website) Additional Nearpod units and lessons on Digital Citizenship, SEL, Financial Literacy, College and Career Readiness, and more. (Staff and Students)
• Brisk Teaching: (Google Extension) AI tool to assist teachers with content creation and timely, meaningful feedback. (Staff)

How to Access and Implement

These newly approved apps and services can be accessed directly through our district’s digital platform, the Digital Learning Hub.

For new requests, please use our NEW Barrington Request for Apps, Google APIs, and Software Services (BRAGS).

Why These Tools?

Teachers can request apps, Google APIs, and software services. Each request is reviewed by the Director of Innovation, Director of Network Services, District Technology Associate, and when applicable, the Director of Elementary Learning and Teaching and/or the Director of Secondary Learning and Teaching. Requests are assessed for their adherence to our cybersecurity requirements, cost, and connection with our curriculum.

Get started today!