How to Use RenWeb and Google Classroom

Using RenWeb (now known as FACTS SIS) and Google Classroom together can be a game-changer for teachers and school administrators. These platforms streamline everything from managing student information to submitting assignments and communicating. If you’re wondering how to effectively use both tools in sync, this guide is for you.

Why Use RenWeb and Google Classroom Together?

Let’s face it, running multiple systems at once can be frustrating. However, RenWeb and Google Classroom serve different but complementary purposes. While RenWeb manages documentation, grades, records, and communication, Google Classroom is ideal for daily lessons, assignments, and student interactions.

Using them together, teachers can:

• Avoid duplicate work by syncing data

• Keep accurate and up-to-date academic records

• Deliver lessons and collect assignments more efficiently

• Improve communication with students and parents

Getting Started with RenWeb (FACTS SIS)

Create a Teacher Account

First, make sure you have a teacher login on your school’s FACTS SIS portal. Your school administrator will usually provide your credentials.

Set up your class information

• Log in to the FACTS SIS portal

• Visit your classes or classrooms

• Set up your class schedule, subjects, and grade level

Whatever you set up here will help later when you sync with Google Classroom.

Setting Up Google Classroom

Create a New Class

• Go to Google Classroom

• Click the “+” icon in the top right corner and select Create Class

• Enter the class name, section, subject, and room

Invite Students

You can:

• Share the class code with students so they can join

• Manually invite students using their email addresses

Organize your content

Use the “Class Assignments” tab to:

• Create topics (e.g. Week 1, Assignments, Quiz)

• Add content, questions, and assignments

• Schedule posts or publish them immediately

How to Integrate RenWeb and Google Classroom

1. Export student data from RenWeb

• Go to the class dashboard in RenWeb

• Export the student email list

• Save it as a CSV

2. Import students to Google Classroom

• Use the email list to manually invite students

• Or provide the class code and direct students to join using their school Gmail accounts

3. Sync grades (manual method)

While there is no direct sync between RenWeb and Google Classroom, here is a workaround:

• Once you grade your assignments in Google Classroom, export the grades

• Use Excel or Google Sheets to change the format

• Manually enter the grades into your RenWeb grade sheet

This may take a few minutes, but it keeps both systems in a consistent layout.

Tips to Save Time and Stay Organized

Create a weekly workflow

• Monday: Post assignments to Google Classroom

• Wednesday: Track student submissions

• Friday: Grade and update RenWeb

Use templates

Reuse lesson templates and assignment formats to reduce repetitive work.

Communicate Across Both Platforms

• Use RenWeb for formal communication, such as progress reports

• Use Google Classroom for quick updates, announcements, and feedback

How Parents Fit In

Parents can:

• Access RenWeb ParentWeb to check attendance, grades, and announcements

• Receive email summaries from Google Classroom (if the school allows it)

Learn parents how and where to find information so they’re up to date and engaged.

Best Practices for Teachers

• Be consistent in how you post content

• Clearly label topics in Google Classroom

• Regularly back up grades from both systems

• Train students how to effectively use both platforms

The Future: Automation Tools

Some schools are using tools like ClassLink, Clever, or custom APIs to sync data between platforms. If your school has IT support, ask if there are any integration tools available to automate syncing.

Summary

Using RenWeb and Google Classroom together may seem like double the work at first, but once you get the hang of it, it can save you time and frustration. Think of RenWeb as your official school registry and Google Classroom as your daily teaching assistant. With a little strategy, you can make both tools work for you—not the other way around.

FAQs

1. Can I sync grades directly from Google Classroom to RenWeb?

No, there’s currently no direct integration. You’ll need to export grades from Google Classroom and manually enter them into RenWeb.

2. Is both platforms free to use?

Google Classroom is free. RenWeb (FACTS SIS) requires a paid subscription, which is usually covered by the school.

3. What happens if students don’t join my Google Classroom?

Make sure you have provided them with the correct class code or email invite. If necessary, reach out to them via RenWeb messaging.

4. Can parents access Google Classroom?

Not directly, but they can receive email summaries if the school admin enables it.

5. Do I need to be tech savvy to use both platforms?

Not at all! Both platforms are user-friendly. With a little practice and consistency, you will be able to navigate them like a pro.