Frequently Asked Questions
1.What exactly does School Chapters do?
At SCHOOLCHAPTERS, we've developed web applications that allow organizations to create individualized portfolio books from one template. Our basic PhotoTag product provides organizations with a unique online resource to store and associate photos,text and documents, while creating individualized books. PhotoTag Plus was designed specifically for programs undergoing NAEYC accreditation to manage evidence, generate classroom portfolios, link to NAEYC criteria and generate online reporting.
2. Will I be able to view my portfolios online, or do I have to print?
Using SCHOOLCHAPTERS is very flexible. It takes just minutes to tag evidence to your categories. You can view reports and download pdfs of the books you are creating. Hardcover and softcover books are available, however they are optional.3.Do I have to print my photos?
SCHOOLCHAPTERS is particularly cost effective because your school does not need to print photos and then apply them. Instead just upload them digitally to your site and tag the photos you'd like to incorporate.
4.How many pages are in each book?
Our books are available in hardcover or softcover 200 pages. A page is defined as 1 side of a 2 sided sheet of paper, so 15 sheets equal 30 pages.
5. Do I have to design a separate book for each child or individual?
Not at all! SCHOOLCHAPTERS allows you to create one design template and then the individual pictures, text and documents are dynamically placed on each student's book. For example, Evan's book will contain pictures that just feature Evan. Thomas's book will contain pictures that mainly feature Thomas. But all children's books share the same events and groupshots.
6. I don't have a digital camera. Can I still use SCHOOLCHAPTERS?
We recommend using a digital camera however, you can still use a film camera. Simply take your pictures as you normally would and then have them printed on a CD instead of in print form at your local photo shop. Once your pictures are in a digital format, you can easily upload them to the site. You can add text directly into the online tool and scan documents.
7. Is it safe to use?
All SCHOOLCHAPTERS accounts are password protected. Only authorized staff have access to your site.
8. Parents may be interested in purchasing multiple copies of their child's book. Can they do that?
Absolutely. We use on-demand printing techniques and can order multiple copies of books at any point. Ask your Certified SCHOOLCHAPTERS consultant for pricing discounts.
9.When do parents pay?
That's up to the school. There is a small fee to use SCHOOLCHAPTERS PhotoTag during the year. Schools will be invoiced for books when the school places the order.
10.When is a good time to start?
We can get you started at any point of the school year.
11. Events are mentioned throughout your brochure and site. What exactly is an event?
Events is the term we use at SCHOOLCHAPTERS to describe curriculum objectives, classroom activities, sporting events, special days, etc. As an educator you may want to highlight your curriculum objectives as events in the book. As a coach, you may view events as a football game or gymnastics competition. As a music instructor you may view events as a band concert or jazz performance. In fact, an event can be anything from "1st Day of School" to "Apple Picking Day" to "Mud Day"! !
12. I'm not currently undergoing NAEYC accreditation, but I'm interested in trying out your PhotoTag Plus products. Can I do that?
SCHOOLCHAPTERS PhotoTag Plus products are available only to programs undergoing accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children. SCHOOLCHAPTERS PhotoTag is available to all schools and offers a great way to instill the cycle of intentional teaching by individualized child assessment, and curriculum links to state performance standards and Head Start Child Outcomes.
13. How does this help me link to Head Start?
When entering your curriculum objectives you can link them directly to Head Start Child Outcome Indicators. Internal reporting shows how your student classroom experiences are meeting Head Start Outcomes, State Standards (where available) and your curriculum objectives.
14. Is there an online manual?
After agreeing to terms and signing up you'll see the manual. You can end any inquires to service@schoolchapters.com, and a consultant will assist you.