Brightspace Support- We're here for you!

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By Kerri Lambert, OIT Teacher Specialist


Learning a new tool, digital or otherwise, can always be intimidating and a little unnerving. Brightspace, the new LMS in AACPS is no different.

Recognizing the magnitude of learning required in this new digital classroom platform, OIT is pleased to offer staff a variety of supports to assist as they familiarize themselves with Brightspace’s capabilities.


On-Demand Support

Stuck on how to do something in Brightspace? There are several places you can look for answers, regardless of the day or time:
  • Teacher Intro to Digital Tools> Brightspace- Found on Classlink, this website is the go-to resource for teachers on all applications that OIT supports in the district, including Brightspace. This site includes dozens of videos and printable directions walking teachers step-by-step through common actions in Brightspace including how to customize courses, use Google applications effectively with the LMS, and communicate with students. This site will continue to grow throughout the year.
  • AACPS OIT YouTube Channel- Did you know OIT has its own YouTube channel? View video tutorials and recordings of Brightspace professional learning sessions conducted by AACPS staff and teachers.
  • Brightspace Tutorials YouTube Channel- D2L also has a dedicated channel for their Brightspace video tutorials.
  • Brightspace Community- Search through D2L’s documentation on using Brightspace. This site goes into how-tos, instructional strategies, and best practices for instructors and learners. Register with the community to post questions to the forums.


Live Assistance

Can't find what you're looking for in the resources above and need to speak to a live person? We have several options for you:
  • Brightspace Campus Champion- Brightspace Campus Champions are found at every school and are there to support and assist the school staff with understanding Brightspace. Not sure who the Brightspace Campus Champions are at your school? Ask your administrator. 
  • eCoach- eCoaches are also found at every school and help to support their staff with all instructional technology applications available in AACPS including Brightspace.
  • AACPS Help Desk- The AACPS Help Desk can help with technical aspects of Brightspace. They can be reached at 410-222-5135 or at help-desk@aacps.org
  • brightspacesupport@aacps.org- Having trouble finding answers, and prefer email? Email us and someone on the AACPS Brightspace support team will get back to you.
  • Office Hours- Prefer to talk to someone? OIT hosts live office hours Monday through Friday from noon until 2pm and Sunday through Thursday from 6pm to 8pm. Click here for more information, including the Google Meet link.


Self-Paced Courses

Do you prefer a guided approach that you can work through at your own pace? Then self-paced courses might be something you would enjoy:  
  • Getting Started with Brightspace- Visit the Discover button in Brightspace and search for this course to enroll in self paced modules walking you through using Brightspace.
  • Google in Brightspace- If you are transitioning from using Google Classroom with your students, or if you are just a big fan of using Google files for all instructional resources you share with students, then this course will help you get set up for success. This is a self-paced 4 hour course that includes video tutorials, handouts, interactives, and assessments. Register in Unified Talent. (Will be available at the end of September)

Remember, we are in this together and you are not alone as we all work to learn the ins and outs of Brightspace!

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