11 Dec 2002
Dallas Independent School District Web site Provides
Access to District Programs, Facts and Information
DALLAS–Parents, students and community members in search of information about the Dallas Independent School District will find the district's Website (www.dallasisd.org) a gold mine of statistics, information about programs, upcoming events, job listings and much more.
"The district's Website is the gateway to a variety of information of potential use to parents, students and taxpayers," said Donald Claxton, Communication Services–Executive Manager. "Anyone with a computer and Internet access can conduct meaningful research on the district from the comfort of his home. The district's site is easy to use and answers many of our patrons' most frequently asked questions."
The home page displays a photo montage of a current district event and links to recent news. The home page features six drop down menus, each of which offers links to a variety of information.
For example, the News menu button links users to newsbriefs and photos of current events in the district. Also under "News" is a link to news releases, recent and archived. Another offering is a page displaying announcements of programs available to students, teachers and parents and news of votes and decisions by the Board of Trustees. Information about the progress of the district's bond program and a publications page presenting photos, descriptions and links to the district's various publications such as The Communicator, the district's weekly newsletter for staff, can also be found under the News link.
Users in search of statistics about the district, the superintendent or the Board of Trustee will find many questions answered under the Inside DISD menu button. This button includes links to a profile of the superintendent, information on trustees, a link to the budget, a section on facts and statistics, an organizational chart, a selection of student and staff calendars, and the districtwide datebook, a calendar of district events.
"Many patrons might be surprised to learn that our Web site contains a full annual calendar of districtwide events and observances," Claxton said. "The timing of district events is a common question that a visit to the Website can quickly answer."
Contact information on a specific school is just a click away. The Schools button is a quick link to information and driving directions to any of the district's 218 campuses.
Parents with questions about the student dress code, lunch menus, immunization requirements, school enrollment procedures, transfer opportunities, testing, summer school or graduation requirements will find a treasure trove of information under the Parents and Students button.
The district is looking for more than a few good role models to mentor students as part of its Youth Mentoring Initiative. The Community button features information on ways to get involved as a district mentor.
Those in search of employment at the district will find their job search made easier by accessing the Website. The Employment button not only lists current employment opportunities but also provides an electronic application. The Employment button is the location of in-depth information for persons who want to move into teaching from other careers via the alternative certification program. The link lists program and coursework requirements, describes basic skills testing requirements and dates of testing.
Surfers should know that some information on the Website changes weekly and many documents on the site require Adobe Acrobat to print and view. Adobe Acrobat can be downloaded and installed at no charge from Adobe's Web site, http://www.adobe.com.