Today's educational technology confirmed what I thought I knew about creating a web portal for my classroom.  I think I am on the right track and can't wait for it to be published on the web!  I really think that using a web portal is a very valuable tool for everyone involved - the teacher, the students, and the parents.  The teacher can document her thoughts in a blog and have the chance to reflect on lesson plans that went great or things that could be changed for the next time.  Students have the opportunity to log onto my virtual classroom to check for due dates, any class news, and any assignments due when absent.  Parents can use my website to keep in touch with the teacher, to stay connected with the child's learning experience, and educate themselves through any educational links I have posted.  Overall, I'm very excited about creating this educational tool for my future students!