Google Productivity Series

Many districts are moving to the Google environment.  Each session will explore a specific application in the Google Suite and demonstrate how it can be effectively utilized in a school environment, with an emphasis on collaboration.

All Sessions will be 1:00-2:00 PM Eastern Standard Time.

10/16/25:         Introduction to the Google Environment, Google Drive, Gmail, and Calendar - This session will provide an overview of the Google environment, highlighting what makes it similar to and different from Windows. We will begin by exploring Google Drive and examining how to manage folders, upload documents and entire folders, and share folders.  Next, we will explore how to customize Gmail, create folders, filter emails, create a unique signature, and use template responses. 

11/13/25:         Google Docs - This session will explore the features of Google Docs and how they differ from MS Word for those switching over.  How to import and export Word documents, how to add images, work with tables and columns, adjust line spacing, and work with styles.   How to share documents and communicate with collaborators through the document will also be covered.

1/15/26:           Google Sheets and Slides - This session will explore the features of Google Sheets and compare them to Excel, including commonly used formulas and functions, conditional formatting, and creating drop-down menus. The next section will provide an overview of Google Slides. You will learn how to create attractive and engaging presentations. This session will also demonstrate how to import and export Excel and PowerPoint documents. Additionally, productivity and collaboration tips will be covered.

2/19/26:            Google Forms - Google Forms—a versatile tool for creating surveys, registrations, and feedback forms. Attendees will learn how to design polished, user-friendly forms, set up automated response collection, and analyze results using built-in tools or Google Sheets integration.  We will explore practical uses.

3/19/25:           Collaboration with Google - This session will take a deep dive into the various ways you can utilize applications within the Google environment for collaboration.  The focus here will be less on features, which we will have covered in earlier sessions. Instead, we will zero in on practical and creative uses between you and your boss, colleagues, the public, and members of your team.  Collaboration is a Google strength, and we will look at easy ways to leverage that strength in your role.

4/16/26:           Google Keep and Sites - Google Keep is a powerful yet simple tool for managing notes, to-do lists, and reminders in a streamlined digital workspace. Participants will learn how to create and organize color-coded notes, apply labels, collaborate with team members in real time, and integrate Keep with other Google Workspace apps to enhance productivity and workflow. Ideal for both personal and professional use, this session provides practical strategies to help users capture ideas, stay organized, and avoid missing deadlines.

Google Keep Sites continues to improve and become easier to use.  With Google Sites you can create an internet site or intranet site, but our focus will mostly be on intranet sites to communicate and collaborate with a team.  We will explore common features to get you up and running in creating a site for your department or team. Then we will look at ways you can have it grow over time into a one-stop shop for important information and communication.