As the new school year approaches, it’s not just students who are gearing up for a fresh start — schools are, too. The back-to-school season is a crucial time for educational institutions to make a strong first impression, and digital signage is an increasingly popular tool for doing just that. Understanding how to effectively use digital signage can make all the difference.

Communication is key, especially during back-to-school events like orientations, open houses, and the first few weeks of classes. Digital signage offers a dynamic way to share important information, engage students and parents, and create a welcoming environment. The right strategies can turn digital displays into powerful tools that enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.

Haverford Systems, an audiovisual integration company based in Downingtown, has five strategies for helping schools maximize the impact of their digital signage.

1. Welcome Messages and Wayfinding

Make a great first impression with personalized welcome messages on digital signs placed at school entrances. Touch screens can be turned into digital directories with interactive maps, helping new students and parents navigate around campus. This ensures everyone feels welcome and finds their way with ease.

2. Updated Event Information

With digital signage, you can display real-time updates for event schedules, locations, and any last-minute changes. Whether it’s an unexpected delay or a room change, the flexibility of digital signage allows you to communicate changes instantly. This makes it easy to keep everyone informed, even as plans shift.

3. Showcase School Achievements

Boost school spirit from the start by using digital signage to highlight recent achievements. Displaying student awards, team victories, and academic successes sets a positive tone for the year and motivates everyone to strive for excellence.

4. Promote After-School Programs and Clubs

Use back-to-school events as an opportunity to promote extracurricular activities. Digital signage can be a vibrant platform for showcasing the variety of after-school programs and clubs available, complete with meeting times and sign-up details. This not only informs students but also encourages them to get involved.

5. Safety First: Display Emergency Procedures

Ensuring school safety is a top priority. Digital signage can play a critical role in communicating emergency procedures, especially for new students, parents, and staff who aren’t yet familiar with the building layout. Displaying clear instructions for fire drills, lockdowns, and other safety protocols helps reinforce these important messages.

Digital Signage Done Right with Haverford Systems

Getting started with your digital signage project is easier than you think. With over 35 years in business, Haverford Systems has extensive experience delivering cutting-edge digital signage solutions to private schools and higher education campuses across the Philadelphia region. Its team helps schools integrate technology seamlessly into various areas, including lobbies, libraries, cafeterias, classrooms, and more, creating an engaging and informative environment. From the initial consultation to installation and training, Haverford Systems is there every step of the way, ensuring that schools have the equipment they need and can confidently operate it.

Contact Haverford Systems to discover how digital signage can transform your back-to-school events — and beyond!

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R.T. Chalfant, an Integration Sales Account Manager at Haverford Systems, delivers cutting-edge solutions in secondary and higher education settings. His experience working with schools in the Philadelphia region, including Rosemont College, gives him insight into the unique needs in education. Chalfant translates his knowledge into practical design and integration solutions, ensuring that every institution is set up for success with a customized approach.