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During a Jan. 14 regular meeting, Elk Rapids Schools Board of Education discussed the recent purchase of software program SchoolMessenger ASP Plus. Superintendent Jon Hoover said the software will be a means of automatically generating phone calls or text messages to parents regarding closures, delays and potential emergency lock-down situations at the schools. Attendance tracking is another capability of the program, he said.

"This is a really wise step in terms of communication with our parents," Hoover said.

He added that the district's goal is to get things out in a more timely fashion and to reduce man hours. Currently, Hoover said the district contacts its parents via e-mail and phone calls in the event of emergency, but the new system will be automated.

In a situation where a particular bus is running late, Hoover explained, the system could be programmed to contact all the parents of the students riding that bus and deliver a message left by District Transportation Supervisor Les Morden. Morden might then leave a number where parents could call for more information, he added.

"I think it's great to have a system in place for emergencies," Trustee Ed Bailey said.

Hoover reported that South Redford School District in Michigan was successful in using the same program. The Web site www.schoolmessenger.com describes the program in detail.

The cost of the annual contract with the software company will be less than a penny a day per child, Hoover said, and the goal is to have it up in running in four weeks.

"Will there be hiccups? Absolutely," Hoover said.

But he continued to say that, with time, the system would become invaluable.

District Web site receives facelift

The board of education also reviewed several changes made to the district's Web site www.erschools.com. The new version of the site debuted on Jan. 11, and offers fewer bright colors to create a "softer look," and a "We are ER" video playing on the homepage. A new section for announcements such as school closures, delays and weather updates will be available, and a section featuring the staff, along with profiles and their pictures will also be included on the site. The drop down menu feature was removed and Hoover discussed now including a student spotlight section.

Hoover said the district was interested in converting its newsletter to be primarily an online read because it was more cost effective. He said he would recommend the 95 percent of it be electronic, saving $10,000 annually.

Megan Taylor can be reached for question or comment at mtaylor@michigannewspapers.com or by calling 231-264-9711.