difficulty downloading documents

Try a different browser

 

Once you download the document try changeing the ext to .doc or .docx(this is office 07 ext) or even pdf. If that doesn't work make sure you have the latest version of adobe shockwave and player and jave. Since it is a school website there may be some security settings you need to change on your home pc. You should be able to contact the schools i.t. dept. to get this info or its listed on the i.t. site for your school.
What os are you using and what version of office are you using?