Get Creative With Your Domain Name

1.
Step 1

*Get Access to Photoshop or Other Photoediting Software

The first thing you need to do is figure out how to get a hold of some photo and image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop. Your district may have a license for the software, or your webmaster may have access to it. If you do not have access to the software, then look for a free or inexpensive download on line for an editing program. Other alternatives include Google's Picasa, GIMP, and Paint.net. I am not savvy in any of these programs, but I have used all three and found them fairly easy to use.
2.
Step 2

*Create your Own Banner

The main reason you want to use image editing software is so that you can create your own banner. A personalized banner makes the biggest impact creatively. While School Center does offer some banners for you to use, taking a photo of your classroom, yourself, or something that reflects your interests is much more appealing. By editing the photo, you can add text to the image to create your banner. Save the file and then use it when your are building your home page. To add the image as your banner, open up "Page Settings" on the Home Page and then click on the "Page Design" button at the bottom of the window. Then click on the "Advanced" tab in Page Design and you will see the place where you can upload your own banner.
3.
Step 3

*Add Your Own Graphics, Fonts and Images

After you have created an individualized banner, work to make your website more personal by adding graphics, fonts, and images that reflect your style. You can also use the image editing software to create an image that can be used as an image map for navigation. For example, the image map I am using is a photo of books that have been altered. Each book is "clickable" and directs you to another page in my website.
4.
Step 4

*Add an Autobiographical Element to Your Site

Create an "All about Me" page on your site that contains a photo of you and an explanation of your educational background, teaching or staff experience, and interests. This is the information that families are often interested in, so wow them with what you've got. It's your chance to emphasize your strengths to a captive audience!

By utilizing other programs like image editing software, you can make School Center work better for you. Creating images rather than choosing stock pictures and graphics will set your web site apart from the rest. Happy web editing!