Schoology Out, Google Classroom In

With the start of the 2026-2027 school year, teachers and students are experiencing a shift in online learning platforms. Schools are gradually introducing and encouraging the transition from Schoology to Google Classroom. Since the pandemic disrupted schools, the reliance on digital platforms has increased dramatically. Laptops are now required in most classes, and the majority of classwork and assessments are completed and submitted online.

Schoology was introduced two years ago in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. While both students and teachers initially faced challenges adapting to it, they eventually grew comfortable and continue to use it today. However, starting next year, schools will be required to switch from Schoology to Google Classroom.

The district believes that now is the right time to make the change, but many teachers and students have mixed feelings about learning a new platform. Tenth-grader Anabelle Martinez says, “I believe they should allocate the funds elsewhere instead of switching websites.”

She’s not alone in her frustration. Sophomore Tristan Gonzalez shared that he initially had “no clue” how to use Schoology, but once a teacher explained it, he became used to it and had no problems. Now, faced with learning Google Classroom, Tristan wonders, “What’s the point of changing something if you’ve gotten used to it?”

Students aren’t the only ones affected. Teachers have also voiced their concerns. Ms. Edwards, a creative writing and language arts teacher, struggled at first with Schoology but became comfortable over time. Faced with the upcoming switch, she said, “It can be a bit of a headache,” although she recognizes that she might eventually prefer Google Classroom after getting used to it. She believes financial factors may be driving the decision, suggesting Google Classroom may have offered the district greater incentives.

Amid the criticism, Dr. Moreno, the film teacher at Ferguson, offers a more balanced perspective. While he acknowledges the switch was sudden, he feels the district has provided enough time for teachers to adjust. He notes that even though Google Classroom may not be as “teacher-focused” as Schoology, it remains “very functional in the classroom.”

“The reality is that the change is coming, and the best choice would be to incorporate it whenever the teacher is ready to do it,” Dr. Moreno explains.

Although this transition may bring challenges, it also presents new opportunities. For now, students and teachers will be navigating this change together.