Keep Parents in the Loop with ClassTag from Cult of Pedagogy

     I'm currently on the market for a new teacher-parent messaging app. I have been using Remind for 3 years now, but just found out that Verizon users will now be charged when they receive a message. That's just not going to work for me. I want a communication app that is hassle free and costs nothing for someone to join. While perusing the blogs on Cult of Pedagogy I noticed the article, "Keep Parents in the Loop with ClassTag" by Jennifer Gonzalez.

     First, ClassTag is free for everyone! All users, whether you have IOS or andriod, has access to this communication platform. Also, it can be downloaded on any device. ClassTag allows for quick and efficient communication with parents/guardians. You can create announcements for upcoming events within the classroom and school. Parents/guardians can receive these announcements through the ClassTag platform, text, or email. 

   

     ClassTag, also, allows for teachers to request volunteers for upcoming events, such as a class party or field trip. You title the event, input the day and time, and how many volunteers are needed. The request is sent out to all parents/guardians and they are able to sign up through ClassTag. Teachers are notified when a volunteer spot is claimed. Also, this platform allows teachers to make requests for donated items. If you need some snacks for a Halloween party, you simply start an item request, type it the item name, the quantity, and the due date and time. ClassTag will show which items have been taken care of and which still need to be claimed. It will send reminders about unfilled volunteer and item requests to parents who have not signed up yet. Also, it will remind parents about the volunteer and item requests two days before the event. Pretty simple and efficient!

     Parent-Teacher Conferences can be scheduled on ClassTag as well. You set the dates and times and parents can claim a slot that works best for them. It will continuously update as time slots are filled. Once conference day rolls around, ClassTag will send the parents a reminder of their date and time. 

     The final component of ClassTag that makes it very unique, is it allows you to get to know the parents/guardians better. When they sign up for ClassTag, they have the opportunity to list things that they are interested in, such as hobbies and sports. This is put into a word cloud that allows you to see which parents are interested in what. This feature allows you to invite specific parents in to share what they know with students. Also, it allows you to see the level of engagement among parents. ClassTag will show you exactly who is viewing and/or responding to announcements. 

     Here is a tutorial on ClassTag! Click on the video to see how to set it up!