Quick Overview
- 1#1: Frontline Education - Automates K-12 staff absence management, substitute teacher placement, and daily scheduling to ensure seamless school operations.
- 2#2: Ad Astra - Optimizes higher education staff, room, and course scheduling with advanced analytics and strategic planning tools.
- 3#3: UKG Pro - Delivers enterprise-grade workforce scheduling, time tracking, and compliance management tailored for educational institutions.
- 4#4: CollegeNET 25Live - Provides comprehensive academic and staff event scheduling software for universities with real-time collaboration features.
- 5#5: Ellucian - Offers integrated ERP solutions including staff rostering and scheduling for higher education administration.
- 6#6: PowerSchool - Unified platform with staff management and scheduling modules to support K-12 operational efficiency.
- 7#7: Skyward - K-12 administrative software featuring staff scheduling, HR tools, and attendance tracking.
- 8#8: Deputy - Mobile-first shift scheduling and communication app adaptable for school staff coordination.
- 9#9: When I Work - Employee scheduling platform with shift trading and notifications suitable for education teams.
- 10#10: Veracross - Cloud-based school management system including staff scheduling and resource allocation features.
Tools were ranked based on their ability to address educational-specific challenges, with a focus on feature robustness, usability, integration potential, and overall value for institutions.
Comparison Table
Effective staff scheduling is vital for educational institutions, merging staff availability, classroom needs, and operational efficiency. This comparison table explores key tools like Frontline Education, Ad Astra, UKG Pro, CollegeNET 25Live, Ellucian, and others, detailing features, integrations, and suitability for diverse academic settings. Readers will discover how to match software capabilities with their institution’s specific scheduling challenges.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Frontline Education Automates K-12 staff absence management, substitute teacher placement, and daily scheduling to ensure seamless school operations. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Ad Astra Optimizes higher education staff, room, and course scheduling with advanced analytics and strategic planning tools. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | UKG Pro Delivers enterprise-grade workforce scheduling, time tracking, and compliance management tailored for educational institutions. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | CollegeNET 25Live Provides comprehensive academic and staff event scheduling software for universities with real-time collaboration features. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Ellucian Offers integrated ERP solutions including staff rostering and scheduling for higher education administration. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 6 | PowerSchool Unified platform with staff management and scheduling modules to support K-12 operational efficiency. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | Skyward K-12 administrative software featuring staff scheduling, HR tools, and attendance tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Deputy Mobile-first shift scheduling and communication app adaptable for school staff coordination. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 9 | When I Work Employee scheduling platform with shift trading and notifications suitable for education teams. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | Veracross Cloud-based school management system including staff scheduling and resource allocation features. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Automates K-12 staff absence management, substitute teacher placement, and daily scheduling to ensure seamless school operations.
Optimizes higher education staff, room, and course scheduling with advanced analytics and strategic planning tools.
Delivers enterprise-grade workforce scheduling, time tracking, and compliance management tailored for educational institutions.
Provides comprehensive academic and staff event scheduling software for universities with real-time collaboration features.
Offers integrated ERP solutions including staff rostering and scheduling for higher education administration.
Unified platform with staff management and scheduling modules to support K-12 operational efficiency.
K-12 administrative software featuring staff scheduling, HR tools, and attendance tracking.
Mobile-first shift scheduling and communication app adaptable for school staff coordination.
Employee scheduling platform with shift trading and notifications suitable for education teams.
Cloud-based school management system including staff scheduling and resource allocation features.
Frontline Education
specializedAutomates K-12 staff absence management, substitute teacher placement, and daily scheduling to ensure seamless school operations.
Intelligent AutoFill technology that uses AI to match and place substitutes in seconds across an expansive national network.
Frontline Education is a leading comprehensive platform for K-12 staff scheduling, specializing in absence management, substitute teacher placement, and time tracking. It automates the process of filling absences with qualified substitutes from a vast national pool, integrates seamlessly with district HR systems, and provides real-time scheduling visibility for administrators and staff. The software ensures compliance with regulations while offering analytics to optimize staffing efficiency.
Pros
- Powerful automation for instant substitute matching from a large certified pool
- Seamless mobile app for staff approvals and notifications
- Advanced reporting and analytics for workforce optimization
Cons
- Pricing can be high for smaller districts
- Initial setup requires integration expertise
- Some advanced customizations need vendor support
Best For
Large K-12 school districts seeking an all-in-one, scalable solution for substitute management and staff scheduling.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $5-15 per employee/month depending on district size and modules selected.
Ad Astra
specializedOptimizes higher education staff, room, and course scheduling with advanced analytics and strategic planning tools.
Intelliworx AI engine for automated, optimal schedule generation
Ad Astra is a robust enterprise scheduling platform tailored for higher education institutions, specializing in optimizing staff, faculty, room, and course schedules to maximize resource efficiency. It leverages advanced algorithms and AI-driven tools like Intelliworx to automate complex scheduling tasks while integrating seamlessly with student information systems (SIS). The software provides in-depth analytics and forecasting to support data-driven decisions in academic environments.
Pros
- Powerful AI optimization for conflict-free schedules
- Comprehensive analytics and scenario planning
- Seamless SIS integrations for higher ed
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Less ideal for smaller K-12 or non-higher ed settings
Best For
Large universities and colleges requiring sophisticated, scalable staff scheduling with resource optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote, often starting at $50,000+ annually based on institution size and modules.
UKG Pro
enterpriseDelivers enterprise-grade workforce scheduling, time tracking, and compliance management tailored for educational institutions.
Intelligent scheduling with predictive forecasting and real-time compliance checks for education labor rules
UKG Pro is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform with robust workforce management tools, including advanced staff scheduling tailored for educational institutions like schools and universities. It handles complex rotas for teachers, substitutes, and support staff, incorporating features like shift optimization, absence management, and compliance with education-specific regulations. The software integrates scheduling with payroll, time tracking, and analytics for streamlined operations across large districts.
Pros
- Powerful AI-driven scheduling optimization reduces manual effort and ensures coverage
- Seamless integration with payroll and HR modules for end-to-end workforce management
- Mobile-first employee self-service for shift swaps, availability updates, and notifications
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for non-technical users
- High cost may overwhelm smaller schools or districts
- Customization requires vendor support, limiting quick tweaks
Best For
Large K-12 districts or universities with complex, multi-site staffing needs requiring enterprise scalability.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $10-25 per employee/month for workforce management modules, with minimums for enterprise deployments.
CollegeNET 25Live
specializedProvides comprehensive academic and staff event scheduling software for universities with real-time collaboration features.
Intelligent curriculum engine that automates instructor scheduling while respecting preferences, certifications, and workload rules
CollegeNET 25Live is a comprehensive web-based scheduling platform designed primarily for higher education institutions to manage academic timetables, room reservations, events, and faculty assignments. For education staff scheduling, it excels in assigning instructors to courses, balancing workloads, and resolving conflicts across complex academic calendars. It integrates deeply with student information systems (SIS) like Banner and PeopleSoft, providing real-time visibility into staff availability and enabling efficient resource allocation.
Pros
- Powerful automated scheduling engine for conflict-free instructor assignments
- Deep integrations with SIS and ERP systems for seamless data flow
- Robust reporting and analytics for workload optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small schools
- Interface can feel outdated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Large universities and colleges with complex academic schedules requiring integrated faculty and staff assignment capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions typically range from $20,000+ for mid-sized institutions, scaling with users and modules.
Ellucian
enterpriseOffers integrated ERP solutions including staff rostering and scheduling for higher education administration.
Seamless synchronization of staff schedules with academic calendars and student enrollment data
Ellucian is a comprehensive ERP platform tailored for higher education institutions, offering staff scheduling capabilities integrated within its HR, payroll, and academic management modules. It enables universities and colleges to coordinate faculty and staff schedules alongside class rosters, room bookings, and compliance requirements. While not a standalone scheduling tool, it excels in enterprise-scale environments where scheduling is part of a broader administrative ecosystem.
Pros
- Deep integration with higher ed ERP systems like Banner and Colleague
- Supports complex scheduling for faculty, adjuncts, and administrative staff
- Strong compliance tools for accreditation and labor regulations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to enterprise complexity
- Not optimized as a dedicated staff scheduling app
- High implementation and customization costs
Best For
Large universities and colleges requiring integrated staff scheduling within a full ERP suite.
Pricing
Enterprise SaaS subscription with custom pricing; typically starts at $100K+ annually for mid-sized institutions, scaling with users and modules.
PowerSchool
enterpriseUnified platform with staff management and scheduling modules to support K-12 operational efficiency.
Advanced PowerScheduler module with AI-driven optimization for complex bell schedules and staff assignments
PowerSchool is a comprehensive K-12 student information system (SIS) with integrated scheduling tools primarily focused on master scheduling for students, courses, rooms, and academic staff assignments. It enables administrators to create bell schedules, assign teachers to classes, manage substitutions, and handle conflicts in large-scale educational environments. While robust for academic staff rostering tied to student timetables, it is less optimized for non-teaching staff shift scheduling like custodians or cafeteria workers.
Pros
- Seamless integration with SIS for holistic school management
- Powerful master scheduling engine with auto-conflict resolution for teachers and classes
- Supports multi-school districts with real-time updates and mobile access
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High cost not ideal for smaller schools
- Limited flexibility for non-academic staff scheduling like hourly shifts
Best For
Large K-12 school districts needing integrated academic staff scheduling within a full SIS platform.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on district size and modules; typically $10-25 per student annually, with scheduling as part of core SIS subscription.
Skyward
enterpriseK-12 administrative software featuring staff scheduling, HR tools, and attendance tracking.
Master Schedule Builder that simultaneously optimizes staff, student, and room assignments with real-time conflict resolution
Skyward is a comprehensive K-12 student information system (SIS) with integrated scheduling tools designed for educational institutions. It enables administrators to create master schedules that assign staff to classes, manage teacher rosters, handle substitutions, and resolve conflicts while integrating seamlessly with student data, attendance, and grading. While not a standalone staff scheduling solution, its education-specific features make it effective for school-wide timetable management.
Pros
- Deep integration with SIS modules for contextual staff assignments
- Automated scheduling algorithms that handle complex bell schedules and conflicts
- Robust support for multi-school districts and custom requirements
Cons
- Primarily student-focused scheduling with staff as secondary
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive feature set
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for smaller schools
Best For
Mid-to-large K-12 districts needing integrated SIS functionality with staff scheduling.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on district size, student count, and modules; annual costs often range from $20-$100 per student.
Deputy
otherMobile-first shift scheduling and communication app adaptable for school staff coordination.
Labor costing and forecasting tools that predict staffing expenses based on schedules and historical data
Deputy is a versatile cloud-based workforce management platform designed for employee scheduling, time tracking, and team communication, adaptable for education settings like schools and universities. It enables admins to create rotas for teachers, substitutes, and support staff with drag-and-drop tools, shift swapping, and mobile access. The software also offers attendance tracking, compliance alerts, and reporting to streamline operations in dynamic educational environments.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with templates for recurring school shifts
- Mobile app for staff to view schedules, swap shifts, and clock in/out
- Real-time notifications and overtime alerts to ensure compliance
Cons
- Lacks deep integrations with education-specific systems like SIS or LMS
- Per-user pricing can add up for large school districts
- Some advanced features require higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-sized schools or universities managing variable staff like substitute teachers and part-time aides who need mobile-friendly scheduling.
Pricing
Essential plan at ~$3.50/user/month (billed annually); higher tiers up to $7+/user/month; free trial available, enterprise custom.
When I Work
otherEmployee scheduling platform with shift trading and notifications suitable for education teams.
Employee-driven shift trading and availability updates via mobile app, minimizing administrative intervention
When I Work is a cloud-based employee scheduling platform designed for shift-based workforces, allowing managers to create drag-and-drop schedules, manage availability, and handle shift trades. In education, it supports scheduling for substitute teachers, after-school staff, custodians, and hourly employees across multiple locations like schools or campuses. Key features include mobile apps for employees to view schedules, request time off, and clock in/out, along with automated notifications and basic time tracking integrations.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Robust mobile app for employee self-service and shift swaps
- Real-time notifications and availability-based auto-scheduling
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics tailored for education
- Fewer integrations with education-specific tools like SIS systems
- Customization options are basic for complex hierarchies like departments or certifications
Best For
Small to mid-sized schools or educational programs with shift-based or hourly staff, such as after-school clubs, substitutes, or maintenance teams, seeking simple mobile scheduling.
Pricing
Free for up to 75 schedules/month; paid plans start at $2/active user/month (Essential), up to $4/user/month (Pro), billed annually.
Veracross
specializedCloud-based school management system including staff scheduling and resource allocation features.
Seamless synchronization of staff schedules with academic calendars and student class rosters for holistic school operations
Veracross is a comprehensive ERP platform designed for independent K-12 schools, offering staff scheduling as part of its integrated employee management and HR modules. It enables administrators to create, manage, and track staff schedules, substitute assignments, and shift coverage while syncing with academic calendars and student rosters. Though not a standalone scheduling tool, it provides robust functionality within a broader school management ecosystem.
Pros
- Deep integration with other school systems like HR, payroll, and student information
- Customizable scheduling rules and automated conflict resolution
- Strong reporting and analytics for workforce planning
Cons
- Complex interface with a steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Overkill and expensive for schools needing only scheduling
- Limited mobile accessibility for on-the-go schedule adjustments
Best For
Independent K-12 schools seeking an all-in-one ERP platform with embedded staff scheduling capabilities.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on school size and modules selected; typically $15,000–$50,000+ annually for mid-sized schools.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools cater to diverse educational needs, balancing K-12 and higher education requirements. Frontline Education leads as the top choice, excelling in automating absence management and substitute placement for seamless school operations. Ad Astra and UKG Pro are standout alternatives: Ad Astra with advanced analytics for optimization, and UKG Pro for enterprise-scale compliance and workforce tools. Together, they highlight the breadth of solutions available to elevate operational efficiency.
Don’t miss out—explore Frontline Education to unlock its intuitive, end-to-end scheduling tools designed to simplify your institution’s daily operations
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
