Sandbox

delete this topic

Templating can be approached many ways. One choice is to find a template that best suits your site and then customise it (your logo, colors, etc). Much of the customizing can be done by altering the CSS file.

One source:
http://templates.joomlaya.com/

Here is a solid tutorial for understanding how to create templates:
http://www.mambosolutions.com/dw_tutorial/

There is also information there about a dreamweaver extension.

I usually make a static html copy of my joomla home as a guide, and then modify the CSS file to my liking.

What are your district's policies on students on the web? Some schools are very strict. Make sure you've got that established.  Both Joomla and Gallery2 will allow you to restrict access to pages/images.

Good luck!!