Google Classroom and Professional Development

This year, we are using Google Classroom to house all our PLC and Professional Development resources. All posts are tagged with topics like "Building PD," "PLC - Student Focus," and "PLC - Professional Growth." I love how easy Classroom is to use, and having everything in one place allows all staff members to easily locate resources. 

After posting on social media about how we're using Classroom this year, I was asked to share directions on how I set up our building's Google Classroom. Rather than sending multiple emails, I decided to type up some directions. 

Setting up a PLC in Google Classroom

• Log in to Google Classroom and click + to create a class

• Give the class a name (ex: Mitchellville Teaching & Learning) and click Create
  

• To add your first PLC document click the + sign and select Assignment
  

• Give the assignment a title (ex: PLC Week of Sept 4), due date (typically the last day of that week)
  

• Add a topic tag (this will make it easier for teachers to locate past assignments and posts using the topic bar on the side of the class page.) Since we are using this for all building level teaching and learning opportunities, we have three topic tags. ​
  

• Attach any files or links using the attachment options. (decided if you want each student to have a copy, or if you want the document view only).
  

• If you want it available immediately, simply click “Assign.”
  

• If you’d like to schedule posts, click the arrow next to “assign” and choose “schedule.” Select the due date and click “Schedule.”
  

• Invite students to join the course
  
  • Click “Students” at the top of you classroom
    

• Click “Invite students” and type in their email(s)
  

• To view PLC documents during or after the PLC meeting, click on “Done” or “Not done” and open PLC facilitator’s document.
  

• To post resources (slides shows, PDFs, handouts, etc.) that teachers will refer to but not complete, simply choose “Announcement” instead.
  
• Every time you post a new announcement or assignment, students enrolled in the course automatically receive an email. ​
  

If you have any questions, or would like help setting up your building's Teaching & Learning Google Classroom, let me know!