District Improves Emergency Communication

School-to-Parent Communication System Built Specifically for K-12 Education Allows School Leaders to Reach Thousands of Parents in Minutes

Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) announced today the immediate deployment of the Connect-ED communication service by NTI Group, Inc. to provide District leaders with the ability to reach all parents, faculty and staff with time-sensitive information within minutes.

"Today, PAUSD is adding a key element to its emergency preparedness plan through the Connect-ED service. Communication during emergency situations is important across all levels within the District," said Scott Laurence, Assistant Superintendent.

The Connect-ED service enables District leaders to schedule, send, and track personalized voice messages, utilizing up to six phone numbers and two e-mail addresses per person. The multi-modal service helps officials reach out to parents and staff via:

? Voice messages to home phones, work phones, cell phones, and even e-mails ? Written messages to e-mail accounts ? Messages to TTY/TDD receiving devices for the hearing impaired

"It's crucial that we are able to notify parents immediately in emergency situations. Up-to-date communication minimizes the spread of misinformation, restores order and provides direction," Laurence commented.

The system can be used to inform parents and staff members of school closures and contingency plans due to inclement weather, issues arising from pandemics, or other late-breaking developments. It is also an effective way to keep parents informed about important events in their child's education. School sites will be using the service to inform parents of student absences and important activities. It has the potential to be used by clubs, sports teams and co-curricular groups to share timely information with students and parents.

PAUSD will be testing the Connect-ED service on 12/13/07. The first message will be a holiday message from Superintendent Kevin Skelly. The system will be fully implemented on January 22, 2008, the first day of second semester.

The District advises that it is also confirming contact data provided by parents. If you are a community member who erroneously receives a call, please contact 650/329-3717 and your number will be removed from the service immediately.

More information about Connect-ED service for K-12 educators