Database Extensions

Database extensions allow you to display customized information in PowerSchool. Database extensions replace what was formerly known as custom fields. You can manage your database extensions in PowerSchool. In addition, you will be able to use existing functionality such as import, export, and reporting tools to access database extension data. Database extensions provide an expandable foundation for developing custom page content.
Database extensions provide the following benefits:

• Improves the reliability of custom data elements and provides a solution for existing pages and reports.
• Improves application performance when accessing database extension data elements directly.
• Removes the dependency on custom fields and virtual tables, enabling PowerSchool to run in a fully customized manner.

How it Works

Database extensions may be created through the PowerSchool user interface and define the table structure and related fields. There are three basic types of tables defined in a database extension:

• One-to-one table extension
• One-to-many table extension
• Independent table (not linked to a PowerSchool table)

You can use different combinations of these table types:

• Add a one-to-one table extension to a PowerSchool table, a one-to-many table extension, or an independent table. You can only have one table extension on any other table.
• Add a one-to-many table extension to a PowerSchool table, another one-to-many table extension, or an independent table.
• Independent tables do not extend from another table.

Once a table is extended, you can add fields to the table and specify data types as well as migrate remaining user-created legacy custom fields to the extension table. The new table and field extensions are available on the Custom Fields and Screens pages.