LAKEPORT, Calif. – A new educational tool is being put to use in Lakeport Unified School District classrooms.

It is a mission of the Lakeport Unified School District to provide 21st century educational opportunities to all students.

The district's goal is to prepare students for participating in a technological world. Through the use of Google Classroom, LUSD is working to fulfill this mission.

Google Classroom is an application that allows teachers to efficiently share assignments and information with students.

The application allows teachers to provide feedback about student performance on assignments in real time. Students can also work with one another on assignments that are completely computer based.

Additional benefits of Google Classroom are the opportunities for paperless classrooms, immediate feedback, and the use of real work applications.

The Lakeport Innovative Technology Educators (LITE) Team was established to support LUSD teachers and staff in the use of Google Classroom.

The LITE team provides support by giving individual assistance to teachers who want to implement Google Classroom into their curriculum.

LITE Team members who have helped teachers expand the use of Google Classroom are Melanie Sturr, Shanna Lee, Nicki Goodwin and Kristen Hiatt.

Professional development through the use of Google Classroom provides educators new opportunities for growth.

Approximately 65 LUSD teachers attended a half-day training provided by the LITE Team on Aug. 10.

Teachers were asked to choose classes to support their needs and interests in a variety of topics including Google Classroom, use of available software programs and technology resources, and troubleshooting issues with technology.

The teachers all appreciated the opportunity to practice the skills needed to expand the use of technology at Lakeport Unified.

“Our talented teachers, administrators and support staff continue to work as a team to provide our students with a rigorous academic program and a variety of enriching educational opportunities that prepare them for pursuing a higher education or the work force,” said LUSD Superintendent Erin Smith-Hagberg.