Leading with Intent: Mohawk Area School District Embraces Skyward Qmlativ

Case Studies > Leading with Intent: Mohawk Area School District Embraces Skyward Qmlativ

Built to grow, Mohawk Area School District adopts a platform designed to evolve alongside its needs.

For Mohawk Area School District, selecting a student information system went beyond checking boxes. Instead, they wanted a long-term partner that could grow alongside them. As the second district in Pennsylvania to adopt Skyward Qmlativ, Mohawk Area positioned itself at the forefront of modern SIS and ERP innovation.

At the center of that journey is Theresa McConnell, director of technology, who has played a key role in guiding staff through the implementation and adoption.

"My support experiences with the Skyward team have always been very good. I usually get a call back within the same day, which is much quicker than other systems I’ve worked with."

Rooted in experience

McConnell brings a seasoned perspective to the district’s technology decisions. “This is the third SIS that I have worked with,” she explained. It gives her a clear understanding of what works, and what doesn’t, when it comes to supporting district operations.

From the outset, McConnell took a hands-on approach with Skyward. She attended all training sessions, helped guide users through the transition, and naturally became the district’s Skyward lead.

“I’m still learning a lot about Skyward as I go,” she noted, reflecting Skyward’s depth and ongoing evolution.
 

Cultivating the right fit

Mohawk’s decision to adopt Skyward followed a thorough and inclusive evaluation process. The district narrowed its choice to three potential systems and ultimately relied on a diverse focus group to make the final call.

That focus group included representatives from across the district, ensuring every perspective, from administrative to classroom needs, was considered. After weighing functionality, usability, and long-term value, the group collectively selected Skyward.

Those same team members went on to become district Skyward trainers, creating a built-in support network and helping staff feel confident from day one.

"Skyward is a game-changer when it comes to the amount of third-party integrations that it supports."

Support that sustains growth

For McConnell, Skyward’s support immediately stood out, especially compared to previous systems.

“My support experiences with the Skyward team have always been very good,” explained McConnell. “I usually get a call back within the same day, which is much quicker than other systems I’ve worked with.”

She also emphasized how Skyward’s responsiveness contrasts with past experiences. That reliability has allowed Mohawk to stay focused on progress rather than troubleshooting.
 

Clearing the weeds

One of the most impactful benefits of Qmlativ is time savings and simplicity. Processes that once required significant effort and multiple data pulls are now streamlined.

Previously, moving from year to year was a complex task. With Qmlativ, it’s now one simple drop-down menu. That ease of use has had an immediate effect on Mohawk staff efficiency and confidence.

McConnell also highlighted Qmlativ’s connectivity.

“Skyward is a game-changer when it comes to the amount of third-party integrations that it supports,” she said, noting it gives the district flexibility without added complexity.

"Even if that specific need isn’t ready right now, it likely will be in the near future."

Nurturing continuous improvement

Even with strong results, Mohawk continues to refine its use of Qmlativ. The district recently revamped its scheduling process and is actively exploring the graduation planning module.

They are also identifying opportunities to consolidate systems. As one example, Mohawk currently pays approximately $11,000 for a third-party tool used by only five staff members, which contains functionality that already exists within their Skyward contract. Eliminating redundancies like this allows the district to reallocate resources more strategically.
 

Advice from the field

McConnell frequently shares her experience with other districts considering Skyward, encouraging them to take a closer look at what’s already available in the platform.

“I remind them that Skyward likely already has what they’re interested in,” she explained. “Even if that specific need isn’t ready right now, it likely will be in the near future.”

Her advice reflects confidence not only in the software, but in Skyward’s commitment to continuous development.

Ready to keep growing

By choosing Skyward Qmlativ, Mohawk Area School District has gained flexibility, efficiency, and a trusted partner. Through collaboration, strong support, and a commitment to ongoing improvement, the district is well positioned to meet both today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities with confidence.