How we communicate with families

Seattle Public Schools knows timely, useful communication with families is important.

These tools are the official means of communications from the district.

Communication Tools

Phone messages: Calls during the school day or early morning are reserved for emergencies or important information such as school closings or delays. Afternoon calls will share general information, reminders, and student attendance notices.

Text messages: The district uses Talking Points to send text messages to families. Schools and educators also have access to Talking Points. In addition to receiving text messages, families can use the Talking Points app—available for download via the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Email messages: The district uses email to send letters, program updates, community flyers, and newsletters.

District and school websites: The district and schools publish news announcements, calendars, and contact information. In the event of an emergency, look for an alert on SPS websites. Web visitors can view community flyers shared through Peachjar with a link at the bottom of each school website.

Family Portal: The Source has information including student attendance, a link to pay for school fees, and student progress reports. Visit the Source page for information.

Social Media: Follow us on social media for important announcements, stories about our students, staff, and schools, and more.

Facebook @seattlepublicschools

Instagram @seattlepublicschools

Twitter @seapubschools

What  families need to do to stay connected

Please update contact information to prepare for communication from schools or the district.

How to Manage your Contact Information

Manage Your Messages: Want phone calls for some messages, but email for others?

Manage your preferences online. Go to SchoolMessengerCommunicate and log in with the email on file at your child’s school and update how we contact you.

Update Email and Phone Numbers: Make sure your school has up-to-date contact information.

At the start of the school year, parents and guardians can update contact information on the Student Verification Form which is available in The Source. During the year, contact the school’s front office to update phone numbers, emails, and address.

Emergency Communication

How will I know if there’s an emergency at my student’s school? The safety of students and staff is our first priority. The district and schools strive to share accurate and timely information.

• Parents or guardians will receive an automated phone call, text message, and/or email.
• In many situations, schools will send a follow up message once the situation has ended.
• Please look for official messages from Public Affairs or the individual school to avoid sharing unofficial information.

Weather-related School Delays or Closures

Seattle Public Schools closely monitors weather conditions and informs students, families, and staff of updates affecting the school day as early as possible.

Transportation Changes Due to Adverse Weather Sometimes weather may force a change in the district’s normal transportation operating routines. For more information visit the SPS Transportation.

Stay informed If weather conditions make a schedule change necessary, we will communicate through:

1. TV and Radio Stations
   1. Local TV: KOMO 4, KING 5, KIRO 7, Q13 FOX
   2. Radio: KOMO AM 1000, KIRO 97.3 FM
2. Automated phone calls, emails, and text messages
3. District and school websites