Google Apps for Education

2014 NACo Achievement Award Winner

Henrico County, Va., VA

About the Program

Category: Information Technology (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) prides itself on its innovative approach to instruction. We believe in the power of designing high-quality learning environments and providing tools that support the development and use of key 21st century skills. These beliefs are part of our culture and are at the heart of the Teaching Innovation Progression Chart (TIPC). As part of this approach, HCPS has harnessed the power of Google applications since early 2011. Google Apps for Education (GAFE) is an educational version of Google Apps that is hosted by Google and managed by HCPS. It gives users access to document-creation tools with features like real-time editing, powerful collaboration, and seamless integration with other resources. These tools provide all HCPS users with a variety of benefits, including the ability to stay connected to the learning experience regardless of the time, their location or their computing platform. The integration of Google Apps for Education has given our users an authentic, engaging and productive collaborative experience. The program has created an environment for teaching and learning unlike any HCPS has enjoyed before.