Soaring New Design Builds on a Dream

When we asked our creative director, Allyson Appen, to dream up a new look for GreatSchools she did what any good designer does: she listened. Once she'd heard enough, she started turning out a series of designs that sought to capture not only where we are now, but where we want to go.

We quickly settled on the sky blue design that debuts this week. What sold us was not only its bold, energizing look, but the clear reach-for-the-sky message contained therein. For us, it captures the idea that GreatSchools can help parents realize the dreams we all have for our kids.

Raise your hand! And tell us what you think.
Our design upgrade runs deep. Another goal we shared with the design team, which includes Senior UI Designer Jennifer Fleming, was to make it easier for parents to contribute — something that seems right for a site that's all about parent involvement.

So with this first release you'll see Raise Your Hand, the first of a new series of community features we're introducing that invites you to share your opinions, send in your own stories, and more easily engage you — and every other parent — in an ongoing conversation about how to help kids do well in school.

Get the real scoop on schools here!
We'll also continue to build out GreatSchools' grade-level content and education-based tools, including rolling out an improved school finder experience along with school profile pages that include photos, videos, and more complete information on each school's best and worst qualities.

It's all part of our ongoing effort to make sure we're arming you with all the support, school information, and resources you can use to help your kids realize their own hopes and expectations. Please let us know what you think — we're eager to hear.

Clare Ellis guides the strategic development of GreatSchools and our growing community of involved parents as GreatSchools Vice President of Product Strategy.