Regarding the e-mail addresses: I modified an open-source e-mail program to manage our PTO's school directory. Since it was an e-mail program, I could use it to send a message to each e-mail address I typed in, and then I would know if I'd made a mistake.
Additional benefit is, the following year, the program could e-mail everyone in the directory to ask if they had any updates. I sent out this e-mail 2 days ago, and I already have 180 responses (out of 320).
I know this thread is from a long time ago but does anyone still have this database and collection form? If so could you email it to me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Could you send a copy of the access database to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. as well? Thanks.
Could I also please have a copy of the Access database and your form email to the following address. Thanks! This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Originally posted by Critter: We tried to include email addresses in our school directory a few years ago. It was a pain in the neck. It's almost impossible to proofread email addresses, and it's very slow to type themn into the database (unlike a name or street which your brain can grasp automatically). Unless your school district computer can send them to you electronically, I wouldn't advise including email addresses in the directory -- just for practical consideration, not even considering the information protection issue.
I solved this problem by creating a form that can be filled in. I used boxes (from Webdings or one of those) on the form so that they could only enter one letter/number per box. So far (keeping my fingers crossed) I have not had any returned.