The Power of Text Messaging

There are several advantages to using text messages for school closures and delays:

• High Open Rates: Text messages boast an impressive open rate of over 98%, compared to emails. This ensures a high number of parents receive the important information.
• Immediate Delivery: Text messages put critical information in parents’ hands as soon as a decision is made. This allows for better planning.
• Accessibility: Text messages are accessible on nearly all mobile devices. This ensures that even parents who don’t have access to a computer or reliable internet can receive updates.
• Convenience: Text messages are concise and easy to read, allowing parents to quickly grasp the situation without having to navigate through lengthy emails or websites.
• Two-Way Communication: The iZigg messaging platform allows for two-way communication, enabling parents to confirm receipt or ask clarifying questions.

Crafting Effective Text Alerts

Want to ensure maximum engagement and readership? Respect your audience’s time and attention. The content of your text message should be clear, concise, and informative. Here are some best practices for your text templates:

• Be Direct: Immediately inform recipients about the closure or delay. For example, “This message is to inform you that [School Name] will be [closed/delayed].”
• Be Specific: Briefly explain the reason for the closure or delay. This could be inclement weather, power outages, or unforeseen circumstances.
• Be Detailed: Provide important details about the closure or delay. For a closure, mention if it applies to all activities or specific programs. For a delay, clearly state the new start or dismissal time.
• Link to Additional Information: Be certain to mention whether after-school programs or childcare options are impacted. You can also include a link to the school website for further details.
• Include a Call to Action: Encourage parents to share the message with others on social media. Not all parents may subscribe to receive text alerts.
• Proofread: Typos and grammatical errors can create confusion. Ensure your message is accurate and free of typos before sending.

Sample School Closure and Delay Scripts

Don’t know where to start? Here are some message templates you can adapt for different situations:

• School Closure: This message is to inform you that [School Name] will be closed today, [Date], due to [Reason for Closure]. All after-school activities are also cancelled. For more information, please visit our website: [School Website].
• School Delay: There will be a delayed start at [School Name] tomorrow, [Date]. School will begin at [New Start Time] due to [Reason for Delay]. Buses will run on a delayed schedule. Please visit our website for more information: [School Website].

Building a Successful Text Program

Implementing a text messaging system for school closures and delays requires careful planning and consideration of the following aspects:

• Opt-in Process: Develop a clear and easy opt-in process for parents to subscribe to receive text alerts. This can be done through online forms, registration cards, or parent-teacher conferences.
• Data Security: Ensure the platform you choose prioritizes data security and complies with student data privacy regulations (e.g., FERPA).
• Cost Considerations: Research and compare pricing options offered by different text messaging service providers.
• Training: Provide training to school staff on how to utilize the text messaging system effectively.
• Testing: Conduct periodic tests to ensure the system functions properly and messages are being delivered successfully.

Other Uses for Text Messaging in Schools

Text messaging can be a valuable tool beyond just school closures and delays. Here are some additional ways schools can utilize this communication channel:

• Announcements: Schools can use text messages to send out important announcements regarding upcoming events, school activities, permission slips, or deadlines.
• Reminders: Text messages can serve as gentle reminders for parents about upcoming meetings, picture day, or school vaccination clinics.
• Attendance and Behavior Updates: With parental permission, schools can explore using text messages for attendance updates or positive behavior reinforcement programs.

It’s important to strike a balance between keeping parents informed and bombarding them with messages. Develop a clear communication plan that outlines the types of information that will be communicated via text message.

Potential Communication Challenges

While text messaging offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider potential challenges and develop strategies to address them:

• Opt-in Rates: Not all parents may choose to opt-in for text alerts. Explore alternative communication channels like emails, social media posts, or school websites to ensure everyone receives important information.
• Cost Considerations: While iZigg offers scaled pricing for large districts, sending mass text messages can incur costs. Schools need to factor these costs into their budget.
• Technology Access: Not all families may have access to mobile devices or reliable phone plans. Schools should ensure alternative communication methods are available for these families.
• Language Barriers: Schools with diverse student populations may need to consider offering text messages in multiple languages to ensure all parents are informed.

Still Have Questions?

Text messaging has become an indispensable tool for effective school communication in the digital age. By implementing a well-designed text messaging system and adhering to best practices, schools can ensure timely and efficient communication with parents and staff regarding school closures, delays, and other important updates. This fosters a sense of community, strengthens relationships between parents and schools, and ultimately contributes to a more informed and engaged school environment.

Follow the practices above to improve client engagement and watch satisfaction rates soar! And check out our other articles for more advice on specific industries and use cases.