Schools

10 Free School Newsletter Templates [Copy & Paste HTML] 2026

Free school newsletter templates with copy-paste HTML code. 10 designs for principals, PTAs, and teachers. Mobile-friendly, easy to customize.

Rob Martin

Rob Martin

— 36 min read
Editorial collage of a school staff member using a laptop with email, checklist, and community icons — representing free school newsletter template layouts

TL;DR: Ten ready-to-use school newsletter templates with HTML code you can copy and paste—from simple weekly updates to event-heavy designs that keep parents informed. Each template works on mobile and desktop, requires no design skills, and can be customized in minutes. Copy the code, paste it into your email tool, replace the placeholder text, and start sending clearer updates to your school community.

School newsletters shouldn't require a graphic design degree. Whether you're a principal sending weekly updates, a PTA coordinator sharing volunteer opportunities, or a teacher keeping parents in the loop, you need templates that are simple to use and easy to read.

Disclosure: We're the team behind Groupmail—simple email software for organizations since 1996. After 30 years of helping schools, churches, and nonprofits communicate with their communities, we've learned what actually works in parent inboxes.

Why Good Templates Matter for Schools

Parents receive dozens of emails daily. Your school newsletter competes with work messages, promotional emails, and everything else flooding their inbox. A clear, well-organized template helps your message stand out and actually get read.

Good templates do three things: they make your content scannable (parents skim), they work on phones (where most parents read email), and they save you time each week. Instead of starting from scratch, you fill in the sections and hit send.

💡 Tip: The best newsletter template is the one you'll actually use consistently. Choose simplicity over design complexity—parents care about the information, not fancy graphics.

What Makes an Effective School Newsletter Template

Before diving into specific designs, here's what to look for in any school newsletter template.

Clear hierarchy means the most important information appears first. If picture day is next Tuesday, that shouldn't be buried at the bottom. Mobile-friendly layouts use single columns or simple two-column designs that stack properly on phones. Consistent sections help parents know where to find recurring information—same spot every week for lunch menus, same spot for upcoming dates.

The best templates also leave room for personality without requiring design work. A simple header with your school colors, maybe your logo, and clean typography goes further than clip art and busy backgrounds.

How to Use These Templates

Each template below includes a visual preview and copyable HTML code. Here's the process:

  1. Find the template that matches your needs
  2. Copy the HTML code (select and copy)
  3. Paste into your email tool's HTML editor
  4. Replace the placeholder text in [BRACKETS] with your content
  5. Update the hex color codes (like #2d5a3d) to match your school colors
  6. Send a test to yourself, check it on your phone, then send to your list

All templates use a maximum width of 600 pixels and single-column layouts that work reliably across email clients and devices.

Template 1: Weekly School Newsletter Template

Best for: Schools sending regular Friday updates to parents Key sections: Principal's message, this week's highlights, next week's dates, quick links Why it works: Predictable structure means parents know exactly where to look each week

This is the template most schools need. It follows a straightforward top-to-bottom flow: a brief welcome from the principal or head of school (two to three sentences maximum), a "This Week" section capturing what happened, and a "Looking Ahead" section listing the coming week's dates.

The footer includes permanent links: school website, calendar, contact information. Parents learn to scroll to the bottom when they need those resources.

How to adapt it:

  • Keep the principal's message under 100 words
  • Use bullet points for dates, not paragraphs
  • Include one photo maximum to keep file size small

[SCHOOL NAME]

Weekly Update • [DATE]

A Message from [PRINCIPAL NAME]

[Your 2-3 sentence message here. Keep it warm and brief—parents appreciate concise updates that respect their time.]

This Week's Highlights

  • [Highlight 1 - what happened this week]
  • [Highlight 2 - achievement or event]
  • [Highlight 3 - classroom news]

Looking Ahead

[Mon, Date][Event or reminder]
[Wed, Date][Event or reminder]
[Fri, Date][Event or reminder]

Website  | Calendar  | Contact Us

[School Address]

Template by Groupmail

📋 Copy HTML Code

<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Weekly Update</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <!-- Header --> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 30px; text-align: center;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 24px; font-weight: normal;">[SCHOOL NAME]</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 14px;">Weekly Update • [DATE]</p> </td> </tr> <!-- Principal's Message --> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 18px;">A Message from [PRINCIPAL NAME]</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">[Your 2-3 sentence message here. Keep it warm and brief—parents appreciate concise updates that respect their time.]</p> </td> </tr> <!-- Divider --> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px;"> <hr style="border: none; border-top: 1px solid #eeeeee; margin: 0;"> </td> </tr> <!-- This Week --> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 18px;">This Week's Highlights</h2> <ul style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; padding-left: 20px; font-size: 16px;"> <li>[Highlight 1 - what happened this week]</li> <li>[Highlight 2 - achievement or event]</li> <li>[Highlight 3 - classroom news]</li> </ul> </td> </tr> <!-- Divider --> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px;"> <hr style="border: none; border-top: 1px solid #eeeeee; margin: 0;"> </td> </tr> <!-- Looking Ahead --> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 18px;">Looking Ahead</h2> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tr> <td style="color: #2d5a3d; font-weight: bold; padding: 8px 0; width: 100px; font-size: 14px;">[Mon, Date]</td> <td style="color: #333333; padding: 8px 0; font-size: 14px;">[Event or reminder]</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="color: #2d5a3d; font-weight: bold; padding: 8px 0; font-size: 14px;">[Wed, Date]</td> <td style="color: #333333; padding: 8px 0; font-size: 14px;">[Event or reminder]</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="color: #2d5a3d; font-weight: bold; padding: 8px 0; font-size: 14px;">[Fri, Date]</td> <td style="color: #333333; padding: 8px 0; font-size: 14px;">[Event or reminder]</td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <!-- Footer --> <tr> <td style="background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="[WEBSITE]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Website</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="[CALENDAR]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Calendar</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Contact Us</a> </p> <p style="color: #999999; margin: 0; font-size: 12px;">[School Address]</p> <p style="color: #cccccc; margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: #cccccc;">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 2: Event Spotlight Newsletter

Best for: Weeks with major upcoming events (back-to-school night, performances, fundraisers) Key sections: Hero event banner, event details, what parents need to know, regular updates below Why it works: Puts the most time-sensitive information front and center

When you have a major event approaching, bury it in a regular newsletter and half your families will miss it. This template flips the priority—the event gets top billing with a bold header, date, time, and location prominently displayed.

Below the spotlight section, regular newsletter content continues in abbreviated form. This acknowledges that other school news still matters while ensuring the featured event gets attention.

How to adapt it:

  • Use this sparingly—maybe once a month for genuinely important events
  • Include a clear call to action (RSVP link, volunteer signup, what to bring)
  • Return to your standard template for regular weeks

[SCHOOL NAME]

Coming Up

[EVENT NAME]

[DAY, MONTH DATE]

[TIME] • [LOCATION]

What You Need to Know

  • [Key detail 1 - what to bring, where to park, etc.]
  • [Key detail 2]
  • [Key detail 3]
[RSVP / Sign Up / Learn More] →

Other Updates

[Brief item 1]: [One sentence description]

[Brief item 2]: [One sentence description]

Website  | Calendar  | Contact Us

[School Address]

Template by Groupmail

📋 Copy HTML Code

<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Event Spotlight</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <!-- School Header --> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 20px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">[SCHOOL NAME]</p> </td> </tr> <!-- Event Spotlight Banner --> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ff6b6b; padding: 40px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 14px; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;">Coming Up</p> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0 0 20px 0; font-size: 28px; font-weight: normal;">[EVENT NAME]</h1> <table role="presentation" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ffffff; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ff6b6b; margin: 0; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold;">[DAY, MONTH DATE]</p> <p style="color: #333333; margin: 8px 0 0 0; font-size: 16px;">[TIME] • [LOCATION]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <!-- Event Details --> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 18px;">What You Need to Know</h2> <ul style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0 0 20px 0; padding-left: 20px; font-size: 16px;"> <li>[Key detail 1 - what to bring, where to park, etc.]</li> <li>[Key detail 2]</li> <li>[Key detail 3]</li> </ul> <table role="presentation" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; border-radius: 6px;"> <a href="[RSVP_LINK]" style="display: inline-block; padding: 14px 28px; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; font-size: 16px;">[RSVP / Sign Up / Learn More] →</a> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <!-- Divider --> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px;"> <hr style="border: none; border-top: 2px solid #eeeeee; margin: 0;"> </td> </tr> <!-- Other News --> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 18px;">Other Updates</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 15px;"> <strong>[Brief item 1]:</strong> [One sentence description]<br><br> <strong>[Brief item 2]:</strong> [One sentence description] </p> </td> </tr> <!-- Footer --> <tr> <td style="background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="[WEBSITE]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Website</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="[CALENDAR]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Calendar</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Contact Us</a> </p> <p style="color: #999999; margin: 0; font-size: 12px;">[School Address]</p> <p style="color: #cccccc; margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: #cccccc;">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 3: Elementary School Newsletter Template (Photo-Forward)

Best for: Elementary schools, early childhood programs, and any school where parents love seeing their kids in actionKey sections: Large hero image, brief caption/story, secondary photos with short descriptions, calendar section Why it works: Visual content increases engagement and shares

Parents of young children especially want to see what happens during the school day. This template leads with a large, high-quality photo—a classroom project, a playground moment, a special guest visit. Brief text explains the context.

How to adapt it:

  • Always get photo permissions sorted before using student images
  • Compress images before sending to avoid delivery issues
  • Balance photos with essential information

[SCHOOL NAME]

[DATE] Newsletter

[HERO IMAGE - 600px wide]

[Photo Story Headline]

[2-3 sentences describing what's happening in the photo and why it matters.]

More This Week

[PHOTO]

[Caption Title]
[Brief description]

Coming Up

[Date] – [Event]
[Date] – [Event]

Website  | Calendar  | Contact

Template by Groupmail

📋 Copy HTML Code

<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Photo Newsletter</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 20px; text-align: center;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 20px; font-weight: normal;">[SCHOOL NAME]</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 8px 0 0 0; font-size: 13px;">[DATE] Newsletter</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0;"> <img src="[HERO_IMAGE_URL]" alt="[Image description]" width="600" style="display: block; width: 100%; height: auto;"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 25px 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 20px;">[Photo Story Headline]</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">[2-3 sentences describing what's happening in the photo and why it matters.]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px;"><hr style="border: none; border-top: 1px solid #eeeeee; margin: 0;"></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 25px 30px;"> <h3 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 20px 0; font-size: 16px;">More This Week</h3> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <tr> <td width="150" valign="top"> <img src="[PHOTO_2_URL]" alt="[Description]" width="150" style="display: block; border-radius: 4px;"> </td> <td width="20"></td> <td valign="top"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0; font-size: 15px;"><strong>[Caption Title]</strong><br>[Brief description]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 25px 30px;"> <h3 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 16px;">Coming Up</h3> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"> <strong>[Date]</strong> – [Event]<br> <strong>[Date]</strong> – [Event] </p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="[WEBSITE]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Website</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="[CALENDAR]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Calendar</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Contact</a> </p> <p style="color: #cccccc; margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: #cccccc;">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 4: Calendar-Centric Newsletter

Best for: Schools with busy schedules and multiple events per week Key sections: Weekly date blocks with color coding, brief news section Why it works: Visual calendar format helps parents plan ahead

How to adapt it:

  • Don't try to include every minor date—highlight the parent-relevant events
  • Link to your full online calendar for complete details
  • Use color coding for event types (action required, special, regular)

[SCHOOL NAME]

[MONTH] Calendar Update

Here's what's coming up this month. View our full calendar for complete details.

Week of [DATE RANGE]

[MON 00][Event name]
[WED 00][ACTION] [Event]
Action Required    Special Event    Regular
View Full Calendar →

Website  | Contact Us

Template by Groupmail

📋 Copy HTML Code

<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Calendar Update</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 22px; font-weight: normal;">[SCHOOL NAME]</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 16px;">[MONTH] Calendar Update</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 25px 30px 15px 30px;"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">Here's what's coming up this month. <a href="[FULL_CALENDAR_LINK]" style="color: #2d5a3d;">View our full calendar</a> for complete details.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 15px 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 16px; border-bottom: 2px solid #2d5a3d; padding-bottom: 8px;">Week of [DATE RANGE]</h2> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; color: #ffffff; padding: 10px 12px; width: 80px; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; border-radius: 4px 0 0 4px;">[MON 00]</td> <td style="background-color: #f0f7f3; padding: 10px 12px; font-size: 14px; color: #333333; border-radius: 0 4px 4px 0;">[Event name]</td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="height: 8px;"></td></tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ff6b6b; color: #ffffff; padding: 10px 12px; width: 80px; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; border-radius: 4px 0 0 4px;">[WED 00]</td> <td style="background-color: #fff0f0; padding: 10px 12px; font-size: 14px; color: #333333; border-radius: 0 4px 4px 0;"><strong>[ACTION]</strong> [Event]</td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px 30px;"> <p style="font-size: 12px; color: #666666;"> <span style="display: inline-block; width: 12px; height: 12px; background-color: #ff6b6b; border-radius: 2px; margin-right: 5px; vertical-align: middle;"></span> Action Required &nbsp;&nbsp; <span style="display: inline-block; width: 12px; height: 12px; background-color: #4ecdc4; border-radius: 2px; margin-right: 5px; vertical-align: middle;"></span> Special Event &nbsp;&nbsp; <span style="display: inline-block; width: 12px; height: 12px; background-color: #2d5a3d; border-radius: 2px; margin-right: 5px; vertical-align: middle;"></span> Regular </p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 10px 30px 30px 30px; text-align: center;"> <table role="presentation" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; border-radius: 6px;"> <a href="[FULL_CALENDAR_LINK]" style="display: inline-block; padding: 14px 28px; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; font-size: 15px;">View Full Calendar →</a> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="[WEBSITE]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Website</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Contact Us</a> </p> <p style="color: #cccccc; margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: #cccccc;">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 5: Classroom Newsletter Template for Teachers

Best for: Individual teachers communicating with their class parents Key sections: What we learned, what's coming up, how you can help, student spotlight Why it works: Creates direct teacher-parent communication channel

How to adapt it:

  • Keep it brief—parents receive multiple classroom newsletters if they have multiple children
  • Focus on actionable information, not detailed curriculum descriptions
  • Include your contact information prominently

[TEACHER NAME]'s Class

[Grade/Subject] • Week of [DATE]

Dear Families,

[1-2 sentence personal greeting about the week.]

📚 What We Learned

  • Reading: [Brief topic]
  • Math: [Brief topic]
  • Science: [Brief topic]

📅 Coming Up

  • [Day]: [Event]
  • [Day]: [Event]

🙏 How You Can Help

[Specific request—supplies needed, volunteer opportunity, or at-home practice suggestion.]

Questions? I'm here to help!

[TEACHER_EMAIL]
Conference hours: [DAYS/TIMES]

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<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Classroom Update</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 25px 30px;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 20px; font-weight: normal;">[TEACHER NAME]'s Class</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 8px 0 0 0; font-size: 14px;">[Grade/Subject] • Week of [DATE]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 25px 30px 20px 30px;"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">Dear Families,<br><br>[1-2 sentence personal greeting about the week.]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 20px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f0f7f3; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 16px;">📚 What We Learned</h2> <ul style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.7; margin: 0; padding-left: 20px; font-size: 15px;"> <li><strong>Reading:</strong> [Brief topic]</li> <li><strong>Math:</strong> [Brief topic]</li> <li><strong>Science:</strong> [Brief topic]</li> </ul> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 20px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #fff8e8; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #d4930d; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 16px;">📅 Coming Up</h2> <ul style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.7; margin: 0; padding-left: 20px; font-size: 15px;"> <li><strong>[Day]:</strong> [Event]</li> <li><strong>[Day]:</strong> [Event]</li> </ul> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 20px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f0ff; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #6b4c9a; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 16px;">🙏 How You Can Help</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 15px;">[Specific request—supplies needed, volunteer opportunity, or at-home practice suggestion.]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #333333; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 15px;">Questions? I'm here to help!</p> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="mailto:[TEACHER_EMAIL]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">[TEACHER_EMAIL]</a><br> Conference hours: [DAYS/TIMES] </p> <p style="color: #cccccc; margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: #cccccc;">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

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Template 6: PTA Newsletter Template

Best for: Parent-teacher organizations sharing volunteer needs, event updates, and community building Key sections:President's message, upcoming volunteer opportunities, recent event recap, treasurer's update Why it works: Addresses the specific communication needs of parent organizations

Key Takeaway: PTA newsletters succeed when they make participation easy. Every mention of an event or need should include a direct link to sign up, donate, or learn more.

How to adapt it:

  • Always include clear signup links for volunteer opportunities
  • Name and thank volunteers publicly when appropriate
  • Keep financial updates simple and jargon-free

[SCHOOL NAME] PTA

[MONTH YEAR] Newsletter

A Word from Our President

Dear Families,

[2-3 sentences from the PTA president. Personal, warm, focused on community.]

— [President Name], PTA President

🙋 Volunteer Opportunities

[Event/Need Name]

[Date/Time] • [Brief description]

Sign up →

💰 Treasurer's Update

[Brief, plain-language update. Example: "Our fall fundraiser raised $2,400! Current PTA balance: $5,200."]

PTA Website  | Facebook  | Contact Us

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<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>PTA Newsletter</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 22px; font-weight: normal;">[SCHOOL NAME] PTA</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 14px;">[MONTH YEAR] Newsletter</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 18px;">A Word from Our President</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">Dear Families,<br><br>[2-3 sentences from the PTA president. Personal, warm, focused on community.]</p> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 15px 0 0 0; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic;">— [President Name], PTA President</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px;"><hr style="border: none; border-top: 1px solid #eeeeee; margin: 0;"></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 20px 0; font-size: 18px;">🙋 Volunteer Opportunities</h2> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f0f7f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 18px;"> <h3 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-size: 16px;">[Event/Need Name]</h3> <p style="color: #333333; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5;">[Date/Time] • [Brief description]</p> <a href="[SIGNUP_LINK]" style="color: #2d5a3d; font-weight: bold; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;">Sign up →</a> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 30px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f9f9f9; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 16px;">💰 Treasurer's Update</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;">[Brief, plain-language update.]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="[PTA_WEBSITE]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">PTA Website</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="[FACEBOOK]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">Contact Us</a> </p> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6); margin: 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6);">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 7: Minimalist Update Template

Best for: Schools that communicate frequently (daily or multiple times per week) Key sections: One key message, one call to action, essential contact info Why it works: Respects parents' time when updates are frequent

How to adapt it:

  • Reserve this for genuinely brief messages
  • Use a consistent subject line format so parents recognize quick updates
  • Include just enough branding to be recognizable

[SCHOOL NAME]

[MAIN MESSAGE HEADLINE]

[Your key message in 2-3 sentences. Keep it focused on one topic.]

[Action Text] →

[School Name] • Website • Contact

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<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Quick Update</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px 30px 20px 30px; text-align: center; border-bottom: 3px solid #2d5a3d;"> <p style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">[SCHOOL NAME]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 40px 30px;"> <h1 style="color: #333333; margin: 0 0 20px 0; font-size: 22px; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">[MAIN MESSAGE HEADLINE]</h1> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.7; margin: 0; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">[Your key message in 2-3 sentences.]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 40px 30px; text-align: center;"> <table role="presentation" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; border-radius: 6px;"> <a href="[ACTION_LINK]" style="display: inline-block; padding: 16px 32px; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; font-size: 16px;">[Action Text] →</a> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px 30px; text-align: center; border-top: 1px solid #eeeeee;"> <p style="color: #999999; margin: 0; font-size: 13px;">[School Name] • <a href="[WEBSITE]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Website</a> • <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Contact</a></p> <p style="color: #cccccc; margin: 8px 0 0 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: #cccccc;">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 8: Multi-Section Magazine Newsletter

Best for: Monthly newsletters with diverse content from multiple contributors Key sections: Modular blocks for different departments, clear section headers, table of contents Why it works: Organizes complex content from many sources into scannable format

How to adapt it:

  • Use consistent section headers each month
  • Set word limits for contributors
  • Link to full articles for longer content

[SCHOOL NAME]

[MONTH YEAR] Newsletter

In This Issue

From the Principal · Grade Level News · Specials · Calendar

From the Principal

[Principal's monthly message—2-3 paragraphs.]

Grade Level News

K-2: [Update]

3-5: [Update]

Upcoming Dates

[Date] – [Event]
[Date] – [Event]

Website  | Full Calendar  | Contact

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<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Monthly Newsletter</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 30px; text-align: center;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 24px; font-weight: normal;">[SCHOOL NAME]</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 10px 0 0 0; font-size: 16px;">[MONTH YEAR] Newsletter</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 25px 30px; background-color: #f9f9f9;"> <p style="color: #666666; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 13px; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;">In This Issue</p> <p style="color: #333333; margin: 0; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.8;"> <a href="#" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">From the Principal</a> · <a href="#" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Grade Level News</a> · <a href="#" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Specials</a> · <a href="#" style="color: #2d5a3d; text-decoration: none;">Calendar</a> </p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 10px 15px; border-radius: 4px 4px 0 0;"> <h2 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">From the Principal</h2> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #eeeeee; border-top: none; padding: 20px; border-radius: 0 0 4px 4px;"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 15px;">[Principal's monthly message.]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 30px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #4ecdc4; padding: 10px 15px; border-radius: 4px 4px 0 0;"> <h2 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">Grade Level News</h2> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #eeeeee; border-top: none; padding: 20px; border-radius: 0 0 4px 4px;"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 15px;"><strong>K-2:</strong> [Update]</p> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0; font-size: 15px;"><strong>3-5:</strong> [Update]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 30px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #ffd93d; padding: 10px 15px; border-radius: 4px 4px 0 0;"> <h2 style="color: #333333; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">Upcoming Dates</h2> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #eeeeee; border-top: none; padding: 20px; border-radius: 0 0 4px 4px;"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"><strong>[Date]</strong> – [Event]<br><strong>[Date]</strong> – [Event]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 14px;"> <a href="[WEBSITE]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">Website</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="[CALENDAR]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">Full Calendar</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">Contact</a> </p> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6); margin: 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6);">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 9: Welcome Newsletter Template

Best for: Start of school year, new family orientation, or welcoming new students mid-year Key sections: Welcome message, key contacts, important dates, "getting started" checklist Why it works: Gives new families everything they need in one place

How to adapt it:

  • Save this as your standard new-family template to reuse
  • Update dates and names annually
  • Include links to detailed resources

Welcome to [SCHOOL NAME]!

We're so glad you're here.

Dear [Family Name],

Welcome to our school community! We've put together everything you need to get started. Don't hesitate to reach out—we're here to help.

📞 Key Contacts

Main Office: [Phone]
Principal: [Name]
Teacher: [Name]

✓ Getting Started Checklist

☐ Complete enrollment forms
☐ Set up parent portal
☐ Review supply list
☐ Join the PTA

📅 Important Dates

[Date] – [Orientation]
[Date] – [First Day]

Questions? We're here to help!

[OFFICE_EMAIL] · [PHONE]

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<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>Welcome</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 35px 30px; text-align: center;"> <h1 style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 26px; font-weight: normal;">Welcome to [SCHOOL NAME]!</h1> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">We're so glad you're here.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.7; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">Dear [Family Name],<br><br>Welcome to our school community! We've put together everything you need to get started.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 25px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f0f7f3; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d5a3d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 16px;">📞 Key Contacts</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"><strong>Main Office:</strong> [Phone]<br><strong>Principal:</strong> [Name]<br><strong>Teacher:</strong> [Name]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 25px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="border: 2px solid #4ecdc4; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #2d9d92; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 16px;">✓ Getting Started Checklist</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"> ☐ <a href="[LINK]" style="color: #2d5a3d;">Complete enrollment forms</a><br> ☐ <a href="[LINK]" style="color: #2d5a3d;">Set up parent portal</a><br> ☐ <a href="[LINK]" style="color: #2d5a3d;">Review supply list</a><br> ☐ <a href="[LINK]" style="color: #2d5a3d;">Join the PTA</a> </p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 25px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #fff8e8; border-radius: 8px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #d4930d; margin: 0 0 15px 0; font-size: 16px;">📅 Important Dates</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; font-size: 14px;"><strong>[Date]</strong> – [Orientation]<br><strong>[Date]</strong> – [First Day]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #2d5a3d; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 15px;">Questions? We're here to help!</p> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 14px;"><a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none;">[OFFICE_EMAIL]</a> · [PHONE]</p> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6); margin: 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6);">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

Template 10: Emergency/Urgent Update Template

Best for: Weather closures, safety communications, schedule changes Key sections: Alert banner, critical information only, action items, official contact Why it works: Cuts through inbox clutter for time-sensitive communications

How to adapt it:

  • Have this template ready before you need it
  • Keep language calm and factual even when urgent
  • Send from a recognizable sender name

⚠️ URGENT UPDATE ⚠️

[SCHOOL NAME]

[HEADLINE: What's Happening]

[Clear, factual statement of the situation. 2-3 sentences maximum.]

What You Need To Do

  • [Specific action item 1]
  • [Specific action item 2]

Key Details

When: [Date/Time]
Duration: [How long]

Questions? Contact the main office:

[PHONE] · [EMAIL]

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This message was sent [DATE] at [TIME] by [SCHOOL NAME]

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<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0"> <title>URGENT: [Subject]</title> </head> <body style="margin: 0; padding: 0; background-color: #f5f5f5; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f5f5f5;"> <tr> <td align="center" style="padding: 20px;"> <table role="presentation" width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #ffffff; max-width: 600px;"> <tr> <td style="background-color: #dc3545; padding: 15px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 14px; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 2px; font-weight: bold;">⚠️ URGENT UPDATE ⚠️</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #333333; padding: 15px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">[SCHOOL NAME]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 30px;"> <h1 style="color: #333333; margin: 0 0 20px 0; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold;">[HEADLINE: What's Happening]</h1> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.7; margin: 0; font-size: 16px;">[Clear, factual statement of the situation.]</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 30px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #fff3cd; border-left: 4px solid #ffc107; border-radius: 0 4px 4px 0;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #856404; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">What You Need To Do</h2> <ul style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; padding-left: 20px; font-size: 15px;"> <li>[Specific action item 1]</li> <li>[Specific action item 2]</li> </ul> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 0 30px 30px 30px;"> <table role="presentation" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; border-radius: 4px;"> <tr> <td style="padding: 20px;"> <h2 style="color: #333333; margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">Key Details</h2> <p style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.8; margin: 0; font-size: 15px;"><strong>When:</strong> [Date/Time]<br><strong>Duration:</strong> [How long]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="background-color: #333333; padding: 25px 30px; text-align: center;"> <p style="color: #ffffff; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 14px;"><strong>Questions?</strong> Contact the main office:</p> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 16px;">[PHONE] · <a href="mailto:[EMAIL]" style="color: #ffffff;">[EMAIL]</a></p> <p style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.5); margin: 0; font-size: 11px;">Template by <a href="https://groupmail.io/?ref=school-template" style="color: rgba(255,255,255,0.5);">Groupmail</a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 15px 30px; text-align: center; background-color: #f8f9fa;"> <p style="color: #999999; margin: 0; font-size: 12px;">This message was sent [DATE] at [TIME] by [SCHOOL NAME]</p> </td> </tr> </table> </td> </tr> </table> </body> </html>

How to Customize These Templates

You don't need design software to adapt these templates for your school. Copy the HTML code, paste it into your email tool, and make these simple changes:

Change colors to match your school branding. Look for the hex codes (like #2d5a3d) and replace them with your school colors. Use a tool like HTML Color Codes to find the right values.

Replace placeholder text. Anything in [BRACKETS] needs your actual content. Start with your school name, then work through each section.

Test before sending. Always send yourself a test email and check it on your phone.

After working with thousands of schools over 30 years, here's what we've learned about choosing email tools for parent communication:

Tools that work well for school newsletters:

Groupmail makes sending simple newsletters straightforward—set up in ten minutes, no design experience needed. The 30% education discount helps school budgets stretch further. MailerLite offers a solid free tier for smaller contact lists. Smore, designed specifically for educators, provides drag-and-drop templates if you prefer visual editing over HTML.

For more communication resources, check out the National PTA's Communications Toolkit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't use tiny fonts. Body text should be at least 14 pixels. Anything smaller becomes unreadable on mobile.

Don't overcrowd. White space helps readers process information.

Don't forget your footer. Every newsletter needs school contact information and an unsubscribe option. The CAN-SPAM Act requires the latter for any mass email communication.

Don't skip the mobile test. Send yourself a test email and open it on your phone before sending to your full list.

Don't change templates constantly. Consistency helps parents recognize your communications.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should schools send newsletters? Most schools find weekly newsletters work best—typically Friday afternoons so parents can plan for the upcoming week. Monthly newsletters work for PTA updates or school-wide announcements, but weekly keeps parents engaged without overwhelming them.

Can I use these templates with any email tool? Yes. These HTML templates work with any email service that supports HTML editing, including Groupmail, Mailchimp, MailerLite, Constant Contact, and most school information systems. Copy the code, paste it into your tool's HTML editor, and customize.

Do I need to know HTML to use these templates? No. You only need to replace the placeholder text in [BRACKETS] with your content. The HTML handles all the formatting. If you want to change colors, just search for the hex codes (like #2d5a3d) and replace them.

What's the best image size for school newsletters? Keep images under 600 pixels wide and compress them to under 100KB each. Large images slow loading times and may get clipped by email clients. Use JPG for photos and PNG for logos.

How do I make sure parents actually read the newsletter? Consistency matters most. Send at the same time each week, use the same template, and put the most important information first. Based on our data, subject lines that include dates ("Week of Jan 15" or "This Week at Lincoln Elementary") get higher open rates than generic subjects.

Conclusion

The best school newsletter isn't the prettiest one—it's the one that gets read. Choose a template that matches your communication style, copy the HTML, customize it with your school's content, and focus on making information easy to find.

Ready to send your first update? Try Groupmail free—set up in 10 minutes, no credit card required. Built for organizations, not marketers.

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