Ever wonder how your Student Information System [SIS), like PowerSchool, actually stores and connects all that data? Or wish you could pull exactly the data you need—without waiting for someone else to run the report?

This beginner-friendly session introduces you to SQL (Structured Query Language)—the powerful tool used to access and organize information in multi-table databases. We’ll start with the big picture: how your SIS stores data across multiple tables, how those tables are connected, and why understanding that structure matters. Then, we’ll write a simple query together to pull data directly from a live example, breaking down each part of the code step by step.

We’ll also talk about when a simple export or report is enough, and when SQL gives you the flexibility and depth you need—like combining data across tables, filtering for specific conditions, or troubleshooting tricky data issues. You’ll learn how tools like ChatGPT can dramatically accelerate your learning and help troubleshoot, edit, or write SQL queries—even if you’re just starting out.

Whether you're in IT, data reporting, or curriculum leadership, learning SQL gives you more control, speed, and insight into the data you use every day.  No coding experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn how your SIS organizes and delivers the data that drives decisions.