Website and Image Unification

Information for the Community

Northville Public Schools is excited to announce a comprehensive website redesign and image unification initiative in partnership with Finalsite, a leading provider of digital solutions for schools. This year-long process is designed to create a modern, user-friendly, and visually cohesive website that reflects the excellence, innovation, and community spirit of Northville Schools.

A Collaborative Process
We believe that a website should not only be a functional tool but also a representation of our district’s values and vision. That’s why this project is a collaborative effort involving input from parents, students, staff, and community members. Through ongoing discussions, feedback sessions, and usability testing, we are ensuring that our new digital presence serves the needs of all stakeholders.

Goals of the Redesign

Enhanced User Experience – A more intuitive, accessible, and mobile-friendly website for all users.
Unified Brand Identity – A cohesive look and feel across all district and school sites.
Improved Navigation & Communication – Streamlined access to essential information, events, and resources.
Innovative Digital Presence – A forward-facing platform that highlights the achievements and excellence of Northville Public Schools.

What to Expect

Over the next year, we will share updates and previews as the project progresses. Stakeholder engagement opportunities will be available to provide feedback and ensure the final product reflects the needs of our community.

Stay tuned for more details as we work together to build a signature website that showcases the outstanding education and experiences Northville Public Schools provides!

Project Timeline and Development

The redesign process officially began in January 2025 with stakeholder feedback sessions facilitated by a Finalsite representative. These sessions provided an opportunity for our community to share their needs and expectations for the new site.

A dedicated district team meets weekly with the Finalsite representative to work through the details of site mapping and content structure. This collaborative approach ensures that the new website is both functional and reflective of Northville Public Schools’ mission and excellence.

The new website will launch in January 2026.

Image Unification

What is branding/Image Unification?

Branding/Image Unification for a school district is more than just a logo or slogan; it’s about creating a unified identity that reflects the values, culture, and goals of the district.

Why is Image Unification important?

A strong image can help provide a consistent thread across each building, increase awareness, attract and retain talented educators, and foster a sense of pride among students, parents, and staff. It can also differentiate the district from others, showcasing its unique strengths and achievements. Effective imaging can help communicate the district’s mission and vision clearly, ensuring that everyone—internally and externally—understands and supports its goals. Ultimately, a well-established brand can enhance the district’s reputation, engage the community, and drive positive outcomes for both students and the overall educational environment.

Why are we engaging in this work?

The colors of our current district logo are not considered accessible on our website, as they do not meet the contrast ratio required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure equal access for users with visual impairments. We want our brand to meet our deliverables. Think of it as image matching. Our image and website should match the high level of service and educational opportunities that we provide our students.

Who is supporting our Image Unification efforts?

Finalsite will be our new website provider and is leading our imaging efforts. Finalsite has a team of designers and marketing professionals to support our imaging and website work.

Image Unification will go alongside the website design. There will be a core team identified for image unification and the responsibility of the team is to serve as liaisons and bring ideas back and forth between building leaders, the board, and community.

What is the process?

Central office staff and technology have had several meetings with Finalsite. Mainly discussing the Northville community, our district goals, and what we are looking to enhance in our web presence. These conversations began last fall.

FAQ

1. We all have a mascot. Why do we need to unify our image?

We are aiming to have a more consistent brand. It’s not a rebrand but a brand enhancement. The mascot characters will not change however we will be looking at various visual styles to create coherence across buildings. We also do not have a branding guide that outlines colors and consistent images.

2.How do we ensure fair process?

We are moving forward with an image enhancement. Fair process comes in when we seek staff and family input and gather feedback.

3. Will families and the broader community be made aware of this?

Yes. There will be communication in our channels of communication which include newsletters, social media, webpage, and board updates.

4. Will there be training on the website for staff/frontline staff?

Yes. Finalsite will conduct training sessions. Those sessions have not been scheduled at this time.