One of the many great features about a school Web site designed by School Webmasters, is our feature that lets teachers create their own Web site. There’s no question that teachers are overworked and underpaid, and asking them to spend personal hours to create their own Web site is likely toget you a few angry stares. But here at School Webmasters we make it relatively easy, and there’s good reason for teachers to have their own area onthe web.

It eliminates the need for weekly letters.
Teachers can post weekly letters on their own Web site, instead of typing, copying, and passing them out for kids to take home. That eliminates wasted time and paper, leaving the teacher more time to do what’s important, like teach.

It eliminates many parent phone calls and notes.
Parents will only need to check the Web site for class assignments, upcoming projects, and future tests. If their child is absent because of illness or appointment, the parents can get missing assignments and leave a question on the teacher’s email if there is an unanswered question. Dealing with many parent notes and phone calls takes up an amazing amount of the day.

Parents who share custody have access to all assignments.
Many schoolchildren today live at two different houses during the week. It can be difficult for parents to stay on top of school assignments, projects, and tests, when they may not be aware of the assignments, or if a project has been started or completed at the other home. By posting weekly assignments, teachers help create continuity for students who live in more than one home during the week.

It helps the student take responsibility for his or her work.
These days, students know more about computers than many parents. Asking your child to check his or her class Web site each day will help your child take ownership of his or her education. There is no excuse for students to say they “forgot” about an assignment or test when the information isreadily available to them on the web.

It’s another way to engage students outside the classroom.
Teachers could utilize their sites to encourage classroom discussions outside the classroom. Why not post a question on the Web site, and have students send in answers via email? Post extra-credit questions to reward students who check the Web site daily. In the world of on-line classes, it’s great exposure for students to experience alternate ways of learning.

If you currently have a site with School Webmasters, think about asking your teachers to create their own Web sites. If you are a teacher and like the idea, ask your administration how to go about creating your own teacher Web site. While it may seem like a big investment of time upfront, the benefits of having a classroom Web site will pay itself off in dividends.