Langley schools introduce the SchoolMessenger notification system

The Langley School District uses SchoolMessenger to share information with families. As new families join its schools, some parents or guardians may receive a text introducing the system. The message reads: “Langley School District messages. Reply Y to confirm, HELP 4 info. Msg&data rates may apply. Msg freq varies. schoolmessenger.com/smsca”

SchoolMessenger is a notification service for parent outreach, emergency broadcasts, school information, student attendance alerts, secure file delivery and other education communications. The district says it helps schools communicate promptly and securely, without delays or delivery problems caused by email filtering or blocking.

The service uses recorded phone messages, email and text messages to relay important information. Text notifications are optional and require parents or guardians to opt in. SchoolMessenger uses contact information in MyEdBC, the provincial information system. No action is needed to receive the service apart from opting in to text notifications.

SchoolMessenger does not replace other communication methods. Parents and guardians can continue to contact school administrators by phone or email, or through TEAMS meetings as usual.

Families are asked to read the information to become familiar with the service and know what to expect; an infographic is also available on the page. They should make sure their email addresses and phone numbers in MyEdBC are up to date. Contact the school to make changes. Families with current contact information will automatically receive phone and email messages. Questions or concerns can be directed to a school or to feedback@sd35.bc.ca.