District Newsletter: Our New District Website Is Live

Launching a new district website is exciting for the communications team and disorienting for families who have memorized where everything is on the old one. A clear launch newsletter that tells families exactly what changed, where the most-used pages now live, and how to update their preferences prevents frustration and drives traffic to the right places from day one.

Why We Updated the Site

Our previous website was built in [year] and was increasingly difficult to navigate on mobile devices, which is how most families access it. The new site is mobile-first, loads faster, and is accessible to users with disabilities in compliance with WCAG 2.1 standards. We also reorganized the information architecture based on data about which pages families visit most and feedback from a parent survey conducted in [month].

What Moved and Where to Find It

The most-visited pages have new locations. School calendars are now under [navigation path]. Lunch menus are under [navigation path]. Report card and gradebook access links are under [navigation path]. Transportation information is under [navigation path]. The search function on the new site is significantly improved. If you cannot find something, use the search bar before contacting the office.

How to Set Your Communication Preferences

The new website includes an updated family portal where you can manage your contact information, notification preferences, and newsletter subscriptions. Log in at [URL] using your existing credentials. If you have not yet set up a portal account, instructions are at [URL]. Make sure your email and phone number are current before the school year begins.

A Sample New Website Newsletter Excerpt

"Our new website is live at [URL]. It is faster, works better on your phone, and is easier to navigate. The things you use most, like the calendar, lunch menus, and gradebook links, are now at [locations]. If something seems hard to find, use the search bar. If you still can not find it, email us and we will help, and we will use your feedback to improve the site."

Mobile App Update

Our district also updated its mobile app to reflect the new website architecture. If you have the app installed, update it in your app store. If you have not yet downloaded it, it is available for free at [App Store and Google Play]. The app includes push notifications for school closures and emergency alerts.

Accessibility and Translation

The new website includes a translation feature that allows families to access content in [languages]. The translation is machine-assisted and reviewed by staff for key pages. If you find a translation that needs correction, use the feedback link at the bottom of any translated page.

Feedback on the New Site

We want to hear from families about the experience. Use the feedback button on any page to submit a comment or report a broken link. Our web team reviews feedback weekly. Daystage newsletters will link directly to new website pages so families can find what they need in one click.