Blackhawk SD previews redesigned website, plans June launch

District administrators on Tuesday showcased a redesigned Blackhawk SD website and outlined plans for a phased launch and staff training.

Superintendent Doctor Panetta introduced the update and invited Mikaela, the consultant who worked on the redesign, to present a preview of the new layout. Mikaela said the redesign focuses on three goals: aesthetics, functionality and clear communication. “The navigation flow of the current site was inconsistent and not intuitive,” Mikaela said during her presentation, outlining plans for a prominent search bar, quick links (Schoology, Skyward, menus, calendar, contact us) and consolidated top navigation.

Key features described include a video “hero” on the homepage, streamlined top navigation (about six top options), integrated social feeds (district Facebook, Instagram and X), calendar feeds for each school, and a language-translation tool to improve accessibility. Mikaela said the new site is designed to be ADA compliant and responsive on mobile devices; a launch pop-up and feedback form will allow the community to submit comments after launch so the district can make iterative edits.

Why it matters: A clearer, mobile-friendly website is the district’s primary tool for family and community communication, and administrators said they will provide content-management training for staff who will contribute to the site.

The administration said the new site will be ready for the 2025–26 school year and that a feedback pop-up may go live on or before June 21. Board members thanked the presenter for the work and noted features they appreciated, including easier access to school menus.