Groupcast Messaging System® Procedures and Helpful Hints

Saint Luke the Evangelist School uses the Groupcast® Messaging System.  This system enables us to send announcements to parents via email.  School closings are communicated without waiting for a number to be broadcast over the radio.  This system is also activated when there is need for an "unplanned" early dismissal. 

Listed below are several helpful hints to insure that the system works successfully for you.

• All parents have completed a form with their phone numbers for home, work and cell. In addition we ask for two other emergency contacts. All of these numbers have been uploaded to the Groupcast® system.

• Upon activation ALL of the numbers will be called at once. Please make sure the people you have designated know that they are your child's contact.

• The system will make 3 attempts at each of your numbers. However, the report we will monitor at school will designate you as a successful contact if any of the calls were answered, even if you personally did not receive the call.

• Make sure your answering machine is set to a maximum of 4 rings. If your machine is set to more than 4 rings, you may miss the call.
  
  
• When a message is sent, there is a short pause after you have said "Hello", before the message begins. Repeating "hello" or excessive background noise will delay the message. Please wait 3 seconds to allow the message to play. In a noisy area, cover the mouthpiece with your hand to block the noise, the message should begin in 3 seconds.
  
  
• Make sure all phone number and email address changes are sent to the office immediately.

IMPORTANT!

Make sure that your children know the plan you have designated for them.