There are probably more sophisticated programs and/or databases (Access, Publisher), but we always stuck with Word and Excel. They didn't want to use a tool that wasn't on the school computer or that the next set of volunteer's didn't understand.
We'd keep all the information in a big spreadsheet. Once all the data was collected and edited. It would be sorted, formatted and cut/paste into pages in Word. (The Excel pieces become tables.)
The format depends on what you want. Frankly, an 8-1/2 x 11 is simplest. But ours was 8-1/2 x 11" landscape and the folded/stapled in the middle to form a booklet. That makes the layout more complicated.
Let me know if you want more details. I don't mind responding, but it can get sort of long-winded trying to describe it.
Our elementary had an art contest with the winners' art selected to be the cover and the section dividers. It was always lots of fun and really cute. Note - to do this, you have to create a form and make everyone follow the rules. Ours was a two page stapled form. First page was instructions. 2nd page was very simple - a rectangle in which they could draw and contact info (name, grade, teacher.)
You also have to be very strict about black and white drawings only. (Pen or pencil, no colors.)
Our rectangle was 7-1/2 inch X 4 ¼ inch.
Our instructions also gave these dimensions and said if they used their own paper, they still needed to keep it this size.
We are an elementary school and hese are some great ideas. We don't want to sell advertising, but are mulling the home-based business ad option.
We are putting the short profiles in since we have a lot of households with working moms that don't get to know the teachers as well as they would like to (I used to be one of these). They want to give thoughtful gifts and just need a little help. It also helps all to learn a little about the other teachers at the school. Hopefully it will work well!
Lisa,
What grades is your school? If it's an elementary school, it's helpful to include parents (NOT STUDENTS) e-mail addresses. Also include the teachers phone extensions. I have always found that helpful. We also list class parents.
Another idea is to ask families if they have home based businesses. These could be listed as adversisement in the back of the directory. You can charge them a small fee or offer as a service to the school. I found our plumber this way as well as my accountant.
I have never seen one a directory with a staff profile added. Strictly speaking, I think of the directory as a student/family resource, not as a way to get to know teachers.
Just my 0.02 cents.
Good luck. I have done our directory for the past few years and while it's a huge amount of work, it's also a labor of love.
