The new school year in August will bring several new communication tools designed to make it easier for parents and the community to receive information about San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) and its schools.
In August, the District is launching its first mobile application that brings detailed information about school events, news, student schedules, grades, and much more to users with a smartphone or tablet. The SBCUSD app, available for iOS and Android systems, keeps users up-to-date on everything happening in the District, especially during an emergency.
The District has already launched a new, redesigned website at www.sbcusd.com with a uniform look and feel, consistent navigation, and information that can be accessed quickly, and in many cases, with fewer clicks. Website visitors who prefer to use a mobile device will appreciate the responsive web design, which automatically adjusts content depending on the device being used, allowing information to be easily accessed from any technology device—computers, tablets, and smartphones. The new website also meets all accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities and, thanks to an embedded link for Google Translate, is also more accessible to those whose native language is Spanish, Vietnamese, Cantonese, or one of seven other languages.
These communication improvements are key to keeping parents engaged in the education of their children, according to Superintendent Dr. Dale Marsden.
“We’re putting vital information in the hands of parents in a way that is accessible wherever they are,” Marsden said. “There are so many ways to use this information to stay informed and involved.”
The SBCUSD app, available for free download through Apple’s App Store or Google Play, provides a simple option for parents to access the District’s social media accounts, calendar of events, phone numbers, electronic flyers, and teacher pages, among other features.
The new website and app are part of the District’s improved parent communication strategy, including the addition of text and email alerts and a move to digital flyers.
The Communications/Community Relations Department, which oversaw the design of the new website and app, relied on input gathered from parents, teachers, and school administrators. In a series of parent meetings after the events of April 10, 2017, at North Park Elementary, parents expressed a need to have information readily accessible and in a user-friendly format.
“We’ve listened to our parents and we’re glad to bring them new communication tools,” said Communications Director Linda Bardere. “Parents can now stay connected to all the great things happening in our schools.”
We invite parents, employees, and the public to join us at a special launch reception held on Tuesday, August 1 at 4:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Board of Education building, 777 North F Street in San Bernardino. District students will help you download the new SBCUSD mobile app to your smartphone or tablet. Spanish-language assistance will also be provided.
If you plan to attend the reception and require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the SBCUSD Affirmative Action Office at (909) 381-1122 or mike.medina@sbcusd.com at least five (5) business days before the event.