GradePro recently acquired an app called “The Source: SPS” and transitioned users to their GradePro app, which offers subscriptions including a $7.99 yearly plan. The app was originally developed by a former Seattle Public Schools student, Evan Mazor, and was successfully operated by him for over three years before GradePro’s acquisition. Seattle Public Schools responded to the situation by advising families and staff to discontinue using the unauthorized app, citing concerns about unauthorized use of the SPS name and logo.
In response to inquiries from GeekWire, Seattle Public Schools explained that they were aware that the unauthorized app was created by a former student. Once they discovered that the app had been monetized and was using the SPS name and logo without permission, they took action to stop the misleading marketing. The district stressed the importance of using only district-approved applications to access student data, with the official PowerSchool Mobile app being the recommended option for families to view student information hosted on the district’s portal.
Wes Cossick of GradePro clarified that the app “The Source: SPS” was not monetized, as it was a free app without in-app purchases or ads. GradePro offers an alternative method for students and parents to check grades on their phones, providing support for tens of thousands of schools nationwide. With over 1 million users trusting GradePro for its features and user-friendly interface, the company emphasizes data privacy and security, ensuring that their design exceeds industry-standard security practices. GradePro is part of the Sparksuite family of companies, known for building software products for millions of users globally, with a focus on data security.
Seattle Public Schools stressed that they do not control which apps are developed and offered by external entities, but unauthorized apps using SPS systems or data must be authorized by the district. The district works with official vendors like PowerSchool, which explicitly prohibits the use of third-party apps in their agreements. The district recommended families to use the PowerSchool Mobile app for real-time tracking of grades and attendance, as it is the only approved app for viewing student data. GradePro’s acquisition of “The Source: SPS” raised concerns about the app’s unauthorized use of SPS branding and the security of student data.
Overall, the situation between GradePro and Seattle Public Schools highlights the importance of data privacy and security when it comes to accessing student information through third-party apps. Seattle Public Schools emphasized the need for using only district-approved applications to ensure the protection of sensitive student data. GradePro defended its app offerings, asserting its commitment to data security and privacy, as well as its track record of trusted services for over a million users. The acquisition of “The Source: SPS” by GradePro has brought attention to the complexities of unauthorized app usage in educational settings and the need for strict data protection measures.
