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Username & Email Address Change – Frequently Asked Questions
Planned Change Date: Weekend of May 9–10
The Technology Department is updating staff usernames and email addresses to a simplified format of first initial.last name (example: j.smith).
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Why is this change happening?
Currently, many staff members use one username for signing in and a different email alias for communication. This has created confusion over time.
By moving to one consistent identity, we aim to:
- Make usernames easier to remember
- Simplify email communication
- Improve collaboration inside and outside the District
- Reduce confusion when signing into systems
What will my new username be?
Your new username will follow this format:
first initial.last name
Examples:
- John Smith → j.smith
- Maria Johnson → m.johnson
- David Brown → d.brown
Usernames may include hyphens when part of a last name. Spaces and other unsupported characters will be removed.
To ensure compatibility across District systems, usernames will be limited to a maximum of 20 characters, including periods and hyphens.
If more than one employee has the same first initial and last name, a number will be added to keep each username unique. For example: j.smith, j.smith2, j.smith3, etc.
Each staff member will be notified of their specific username before the change takes place.
Will my password change?
No. Your current password is expected to remain the same unless otherwise communicated.
Will my email address change?
Yes. Your primary sending address will match your new username format.
You will still continue to receive email sent to:
- Your previous username-based address, john.smith@lansingschools.net
- Your prior alias addresses - smithj0422@lansingschools.net
However, outgoing email will send from your new primary address.
Will I lose old emails, files, or contacts?
No. This change is focused on usernames and email addressing.
Your existing:
- Email mailbox
- Email history
- OneDrive / Google Drive files
- Calendar items
- Contacts
should remain available.
What do I need to do before May 9–10?
At this time, no action is required.
Over the next three weeks, Technology will share additional information including:
- Username lookup instructions
- Login guidance
- Mobile device steps (if needed)
- System-specific updates
What systems are affected?
Your sign-in name may be updated in systems such as:
- District computers
- Microsoft 365
- Email
- Google services
- Other District-connected systems
More detailed guidance will be shared before the change weekend.
What happens after the change?
Most staff should simply begin using the new username where prompted.
Some devices or apps may ask you to sign in again after the update.
What if I cannot log in that first Monday morning?
Please submit a Help Desk ticket as soon as possible so we can assist quickly.
Include:
- Your name
- Building/location
- Device type
- What system you are trying to access
- Any error message shown
Why are we doing this before summer?
We want to complete the transition while school is still in session so any issues can be identified and resolved now, rather than right before the start of next school year.
Need Help?
The Technology Department appreciates your patience and support as we continue improving District systems and services.