Crystal Lake District 47 launches redesigned website, adopts new logos

Crystal Lake Elementary District 47 has launched a new website with individual pages for its 12 schools and featuring a robust, responsive design and updated look, officials said.

The goal of the improved website is to become the primary source of information about the district for parents, students, staff and community members, said Denise Barr, district coordinator of community relations.

Barr said she hopes visitors will find the site more user-friendly and engaging through updated and reorganized content, improved navigation, and the use of photos and video.

"As a progressive school district and leaders in technology, we look forward to hosting a website that is easier to navigate, more engaging and better reflects who we are," Barr said.

The district will launch a downloadable app mid-school year to deliver information on mobile devices, including tablets and smartphones.

Barr said these enhancements will make it easier for busy families to stay connected to the district and their child's school while on the go.

The responsive design and app also will offer families without home Internet access a new way to connect with their child's school through mobile devices.

Other new features include a searchable staff directory and the ability to create a personalized "dashboard" of content upon registration.

Barr said once teacher sites launch, likely later this school year, the dashboard will allow parents to customize content, such as their child's school calendars and homework assignments, and to sign up to receive important updates from their child's school.

District 47 also is rebranding itself as Crystal Lake Elementary District 47 and has updated its logos to reinforce its mission of "educational excellence for all students." The new logos create uniformity among the district's schools and reflect its goal of preparing students for high school, college and careers.