In my son’s fourth grade year, I gave up. With three kids, I could not get all of their registration materials filled out and returned to the schools.

I had to ask my husband to help.

His response?

“This is crazy! Do I really have to fill out a yellow, pink, white and red oversized index card with almost the exact information on each one?”

“Yes, you do,” I said. “Parents do it every year.”

My husband survived, but as he took over this annual chore, he insisted there had to be a better way for the school to receive the same information yearly that didn’t require parents to become human copy machines.

This year, for the first time, all Shelby County Schools have registration forms available online.

Parents may print off registration forms from the Web site ahead of time so they can arrive with their forms completed. Registration forms are available at Shelbyed.k12.al.us.

The really wonderful feature of this process is the forms can be filled in online before printing.

Parents of Pelham High School students should follow the links to arrive at the Pelham High School forms.

Forms must be filled out and brought to PHS during the assigned registration times.

Students need a parent with a driver’s license to accompany them during registration.

Parents should also bring two proofs of residency.

These simplified forms will make registration easier for everyone. Pelham High School hosts registration on July 28 and July 30.

On Tuesday, July 28, senior registration begins at 4 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m.

Later that night, junior registration begins at 6:30 p.m. and lasts until 8:30 p.m.

On Thursday, July 30, sophomores register from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. and freshmen register from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Students new to the area should call the school at 682-5501 to make an appointment.

At registration, students choose lockers and try their combinations.

Students who drive pick up their numbered parking permits. Students also receive schedules.

Summer reading procrastinators will find books available for purchase and teachers to discuss their choices.

Many teachers volunteer to work registration so students may be able to meet some of their teachers. Counselors will be on hand also.

Although seniors have already had yearbook photos made, all other students are able to get their photos made for the yearbook.

Students should be camera ready and in dress code for their photos.

Entering freshmen should sign up for Camp Pelham at registration. This freshmen orientation is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 7.

I’ll have more on Camp Pelham in a future column.

Registration first –– Camp Pelham later.