Alachua County Public Schools is rolling out several new communications tools this summer to better connect with families, staff, students and the community. Two of those tools, including new websites and a new messaging system, have already launched. Current contracts for the district’s existing platforms expired July 1. The district is instead working with Apptegy, which is used in more than 5000 school districts nationwide, including more than 20 in Florida.

As part of the website overhaul, the district will also be moving to a new website address, www.alachuaschools.net. While this will be the district’s official address moving forward, the current address of www.sbac.edu will redirect users to the new site for the foreseeable future.

The updated website will feature improved navigation and a more user-friendly design. The district has prioritized the most frequently-accessed features to ensure they are easier to find and use.

"These new tools will make it easier than ever for families, staff and the community to stay informed and engaged," said Eytan Oren, coordinator of online presence for Alachua County Public Schools. "Our goal is to make information quickly and easily accessible for everyone."

Also on June 30, ACPS will transition to a new direct messaging platform, Alerts. This system will replace the longstanding Skylert platform for sending emails, phone calls, and text messages. One key improvement is that families will no longer need to opt in to receive text messages—they will be automatically included but can unsubscribe at any time. Messages will come from the short code 98900, and an initial message was sent from that number on June 30. Phone calls will come from (352) 955-7300 and emails from communication@alachuaschools.net.

Later this summer, ahead of the new school year, ACPS will introduce a new Alachua County Public Schools app. The app will offer families convenient access to emergency notifications, school and district events, school menus, and more.

Additionally, the district is launching a new communication platform called Rooms, which will become the standard for teacher and staff communications with families. It will replace platforms such as Class Dojo and Remind and ensure consistent communications throughout the district.

More details about the new app and the Rooms platform will be shared with families as their launch dates approach.

Newberry High School

District launches new communication tools to boost family engagement