Quick Overview
- 1#1: PowerSchool - Comprehensive K-12 SIS with advanced real-time attendance tracking, mobile check-in, and automated parent notifications.
- 2#2: Infinite Campus - Cloud-based student information system offering seamless mobile attendance taking and detailed reporting for schools.
- 3#3: Skyward - Student management suite with intuitive attendance tracking, period-by-period monitoring, and integration capabilities.
- 4#4: Alma - Modern SIS platform featuring user-friendly attendance tools, AI-driven insights, and parent communication portals.
- 5#5: Aeries - Flexible SIS with robust attendance management, customizable tracking, and compliance reporting for educators.
- 6#6: Gradelink - Affordable online gradebook and attendance system designed for small to mid-sized schools with easy daily tracking.
- 7#7: FACTS SIS - Integrated school management software with reliable attendance tracking tailored for private and faith-based institutions.
- 8#8: Rediker - Administrative software suite providing detailed attendance records, tardy management, and state compliance features.
- 9#9: Synergy - Unified student data platform with powerful attendance module for accurate tracking and analytics.
- 10#10: Veracross - Cloud-native ERP for independent schools offering attendance management with billing and admissions integration.
Tools were ranked by a mix of features (including real-time tracking, mobile functionality, and reporting depth), ease of use (intuitive interfaces, minimal training needs), and value (cost-effectiveness, scalability, and alignment with school size and type).
Comparison Table
Efficient attendance management is essential for schools, and selecting the right software can transform this process. This comparison table explores top tools like PowerSchool, Infinite Campus, Skyward, Alma, and Aeries, examining their key features and suitability for different school settings. Readers will gain insights to identify the best software for their institution's unique needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PowerSchool Comprehensive K-12 SIS with advanced real-time attendance tracking, mobile check-in, and automated parent notifications. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Infinite Campus Cloud-based student information system offering seamless mobile attendance taking and detailed reporting for schools. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Skyward Student management suite with intuitive attendance tracking, period-by-period monitoring, and integration capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Alma Modern SIS platform featuring user-friendly attendance tools, AI-driven insights, and parent communication portals. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Aeries Flexible SIS with robust attendance management, customizable tracking, and compliance reporting for educators. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Gradelink Affordable online gradebook and attendance system designed for small to mid-sized schools with easy daily tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | FACTS SIS Integrated school management software with reliable attendance tracking tailored for private and faith-based institutions. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Rediker Administrative software suite providing detailed attendance records, tardy management, and state compliance features. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | Synergy Unified student data platform with powerful attendance module for accurate tracking and analytics. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Veracross Cloud-native ERP for independent schools offering attendance management with billing and admissions integration. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive K-12 SIS with advanced real-time attendance tracking, mobile check-in, and automated parent notifications.
Cloud-based student information system offering seamless mobile attendance taking and detailed reporting for schools.
Student management suite with intuitive attendance tracking, period-by-period monitoring, and integration capabilities.
Modern SIS platform featuring user-friendly attendance tools, AI-driven insights, and parent communication portals.
Flexible SIS with robust attendance management, customizable tracking, and compliance reporting for educators.
Affordable online gradebook and attendance system designed for small to mid-sized schools with easy daily tracking.
Integrated school management software with reliable attendance tracking tailored for private and faith-based institutions.
Administrative software suite providing detailed attendance records, tardy management, and state compliance features.
Unified student data platform with powerful attendance module for accurate tracking and analytics.
Cloud-native ERP for independent schools offering attendance management with billing and admissions integration.
PowerSchool
enterpriseComprehensive K-12 SIS with advanced real-time attendance tracking, mobile check-in, and automated parent notifications.
Unified real-time attendance dashboard integrated across SIS, portals, and mobile apps for instant visibility and automated interventions
PowerSchool is a comprehensive student information system (SIS) with advanced attendance tracking features designed for K-12 schools. It enables real-time daily, period-by-period, and tardy tracking, automated parent notifications, and integration with mobile apps for teachers and admins. The platform provides customizable reports, compliance tools, and analytics to monitor attendance trends and improve student outcomes.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full SIS for holistic student data management
- Real-time notifications and mobile accessibility for teachers and parents
- Advanced analytics and customizable reporting for attendance compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Higher cost may burden smaller districts
- Initial setup and customization require IT support
Best For
Large K-12 school districts seeking an enterprise-grade, integrated attendance solution within a complete SIS.
Pricing
Custom quoted pricing, typically $10-20 per student per year depending on modules and district size.
Infinite Campus
enterpriseCloud-based student information system offering seamless mobile attendance taking and detailed reporting for schools.
Integrated real-time parent portal and automated alerts for instant attendance visibility and notifications
Infinite Campus is a comprehensive K-12 student information system (SIS) with robust school attendance management capabilities, enabling real-time tracking across daily, period-by-period, and tardy attendance. It supports automated parent notifications via phone, email, text, and mobile app, along with customizable codes and state compliance reporting. The platform integrates attendance data seamlessly with grading, scheduling, and health records for a unified district-wide solution.
Pros
- Real-time attendance tracking with mobile access for teachers and admins
- Automated multi-channel parent notifications and compliance reporting
- Deep integration with other SIS functions like grading and discipline
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small districts
- Initial implementation and training require significant time
Best For
Medium to large school districts needing a scalable, all-in-one SIS with advanced attendance tracking and reporting.
Pricing
Custom district contracts, typically $10-25 per student per year, with volume discounts for larger implementations.
Skyward
enterpriseStudent management suite with intuitive attendance tracking, period-by-period monitoring, and integration capabilities.
Seamless real-time attendance notifications to parents via mobile app and web portal
Skyward is a comprehensive K-12 student information system (SIS) with robust attendance tracking capabilities, allowing schools to manage daily, period-by-period, and tardy attendance seamlessly. It integrates attendance data with grading, scheduling, and discipline modules for a holistic view of student performance. The system supports automated parent notifications, custom attendance codes, and detailed reporting to help administrators monitor trends and compliance effectively.
Pros
- Comprehensive attendance tracking with real-time updates and multiple tracking modes
- Strong integration with other SIS modules for unified data management
- Advanced reporting and analytics for truancy prevention and compliance
Cons
- Dated user interface that requires training for full proficiency
- Complex setup and customization process during implementation
- Pricing scales with district size, less ideal for small schools
Best For
Mid-to-large school districts needing an integrated SIS with powerful attendance management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing per student (typically $10-20/student/year), based on modules, district size, and implementation needs.
Alma
enterpriseModern SIS platform featuring user-friendly attendance tools, AI-driven insights, and parent communication portals.
Real-time attendance analytics integrated directly into the SIS for instant insights and automated interventions
Alma is a comprehensive K-12 student information system (SIS) with robust attendance tracking capabilities, enabling real-time monitoring, mobile check-ins, and automated parent notifications. It integrates attendance data seamlessly with grading, scheduling, and reporting for a unified school management experience. Designed for districts seeking efficiency, Alma reduces manual processes and supports compliance with attendance regulations.
Pros
- Real-time attendance dashboards with facial recognition and geofencing options
- Strong mobile app for teachers, students, and parents
- Seamless integrations with Google Workspace and other edtech tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller schools or districts
- Initial setup and data migration require significant time
- Limited advanced customization without developer support
Best For
Mid-to-large K-12 districts needing an all-in-one SIS with advanced attendance tracking and parent engagement.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on student enrollment; typically $15-30 per student per year, with tiered plans.
Aeries
enterpriseFlexible SIS with robust attendance management, customizable tracking, and compliance reporting for educators.
Mobile Attendance app enabling real-time period-by-period entry from smartphones or tablets
Aeries is a comprehensive web-based Student Information System (SIS) designed for K-12 schools, with robust attendance management as a core feature. It supports daily, period-by-period, and tardy tracking, along with truancy monitoring, automated calls, and customizable attendance codes. The system integrates attendance data with parent/student portals for real-time visibility and reporting.
Pros
- Comprehensive attendance tracking with period-level detail and truancy automation
- Mobile app for teachers to submit attendance on-the-go
- Strong integration with parent portals and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern SaaS tools
- Pricing requires custom quotes and scales with district size
Best For
Medium to large K-12 school districts needing an integrated SIS with advanced attendance management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $6-10 per student per year depending on features and district size.
Gradelink
specializedAffordable online gradebook and attendance system designed for small to mid-sized schools with easy daily tracking.
Real-time attendance notifications and parent portal access for instant absence awareness
Gradelink is a cloud-based student information system (SIS) with robust attendance tracking capabilities designed for K-12 schools, allowing teachers to record daily attendance, tardies, and absences via web or mobile app. It integrates attendance data seamlessly with grading, scheduling, and parent portals for real-time visibility and automated notifications. As a comprehensive solution, it supports various attendance models like period-based or daily tracking, making it suitable for streamlined school operations.
Pros
- Intuitive web and mobile interface for quick attendance entry
- Automated parent alerts and real-time dashboards
- Strong integration with grading and SIS modules
Cons
- Pricing scales steeply with student numbers
- Limited advanced customization for attendance reports
- Occasional reports of integration glitches with third-party tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized K-12 private or independent schools needing integrated attendance within a full student management system.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting around $109/month for up to 50 students, increasing with enrollment size; custom quotes required.
FACTS SIS
enterpriseIntegrated school management software with reliable attendance tracking tailored for private and faith-based institutions.
Automated parent portal with real-time attendance visibility and instant absence alerts
FACTS SIS (factsmgt.com) is a comprehensive Student Information System designed for K-12 schools, with robust attendance tracking as a core module. It enables teachers to record daily attendance, tardies, and absences via web or mobile app, with real-time updates visible in parent and student portals. The system automates notifications for unexcused absences and generates detailed reports for compliance and analysis, integrating seamlessly with grading, scheduling, and billing.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full SIS for holistic student data management
- Real-time parent notifications and mobile accessibility for quick updates
- Customizable attendance reports and analytics for administrative insights
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern standalone tools
- Overkill and higher cost for schools needing only attendance tracking
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
Best For
Private K-12 schools requiring an integrated SIS with reliable attendance management alongside grading and parent communication.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on school size, typically $8-15 per student per month including full SIS features.
Rediker
enterpriseAdministrative software suite providing detailed attendance records, tardy management, and state compliance features.
PlusPortals integration for instant mobile alerts to parents on attendance changes
Rediker Software offers a comprehensive student information system (SIS) with robust attendance tracking features tailored for K-12 schools. It enables automated daily attendance, tardy management, absence reason coding, and real-time notifications via parent/student portals like PlusPortals. The platform generates customizable reports and integrates attendance data with grading, discipline, and scheduling modules for holistic student management.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration with full SIS for seamless attendance and admin workflows
- Real-time parent notifications and portal access via PlusPortals
- Highly customizable attendance codes, reports, and state compliance tools
Cons
- Outdated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern SaaS tools
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced features
- Quote-based pricing can be costly for smaller schools
Best For
Mid-sized private, charter, or faith-based schools needing an all-in-one SIS with reliable attendance tracking.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at $5-10 per student annually, plus setup fees; varies by school size and modules.
Synergy
enterpriseUnified student data platform with powerful attendance module for accurate tracking and analytics.
Real-time bidirectional parent notifications via Synergy ParentVUE portal and mobile app
Synergy by Edupoint is a comprehensive student information system (SIS) with robust attendance management features tailored for K-12 schools. It enables real-time attendance tracking via mobile apps for teachers, period-by-period logging, and customizable codes for absences, tardies, and dismissals. The platform integrates attendance data with student records, discipline, and parent portals for seamless communication and reporting.
Pros
- Deep integration with full SIS for unified student data and reporting
- Mobile-first attendance entry with real-time syncing and parent notifications
- Advanced analytics and compliance reporting for attendance trends
Cons
- Enterprise pricing makes it less accessible for small schools
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for full features
- Overkill for districts needing only standalone attendance tools
Best For
Large K-12 districts requiring integrated attendance within a broader student information system.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing per student for districts; typically $8-15 per student/year depending on size and modules.
Veracross
enterpriseCloud-native ERP for independent schools offering attendance management with billing and admissions integration.
Seamless integration of attendance data with academic, behavioral, and family engagement tools for comprehensive student insights
Veracross is a comprehensive ERP platform for independent K-12 schools that includes robust attendance management within its student information system (SIS). It supports daily attendance tracking, tardy and absence logging, automated parent notifications via email and portal, and integration with scheduling, grading, and discipline modules. The system offers customizable reports, attendance analytics, and mobile access for teachers to take attendance in real-time.
Pros
- Deep integration with SIS, CRM, and other school modules for holistic data
- Real-time mobile attendance entry and parent portal notifications
- Advanced reporting and compliance tools for attendance trends
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive feature set
- High cost makes it less ideal for small schools or standalone attendance needs
- Customization requires IT support or vendor assistance
Best For
Mid-to-large independent K-12 schools seeking an integrated ERP with strong attendance tracking.
Pricing
Custom quote based on enrollment and modules; typically $15-30 per student/year for full suite.
Conclusion
The reviewed school attendance software presents a mix of powerful tools, with PowerSchool emerging as the top choice due to its comprehensive K-12 SIS, real-time tracking, mobile check-in, and automated parent notifications. Infinite Campus and Skyward follow closely, offering seamless mobile attendance management and detailed reporting, serving as strong alternatives for varied institutional needs. Collectively, these platforms reflect the evolving demands of modern education, delivering essential solutions for efficient attendance oversight.
Take the next step in enhancing your school's operations—try PowerSchool, the leading tool for streamlined attendance tracking, intuitive management, and improved parent communication. Explore its features to experience how it can elevate your daily processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison