NEW SMS ATTENDANCE SYSTEM COMING SOON
Dear Parent/Caregiver,
In the next couple of weeks Westfields Sports will be introducing a new SMS System to replace the current system being used to contact parents whenever their child is absent or late from school.
Like the old system, the purpose is to contact parents on the day of the absence so that they can be kept better informed as to the location and safety of their child. Parents will still be able to reply to the SMS, ring or write to the school to either explain the absence or to inform us if they believe their child is at school, so that we can investigate the matter further. I believe that most parents will continue to appreciate the peace-of-mind that such a system would bring. As an added bonus, we will also be able to use the system to inform parents of special events and notices such as parent-teacher evenings, P&C meetings, overdue library books, etc.
In order to maintain an accurate system, the school needs to ensure that it has correct and verified mobile phone contact numbers for parents. Parents are asked to keep the school promptly informed of any changes to phone numbers. From time-to-time the school will also randomly contact parents on these numbers to ensure that they are still current. These measures are all essential in ensuring that the system is as effective as possible. Parents who do not wish to be contacted via an SMS message to their mobile phone will have the option of receiving a printed summary of unexplained absences on written request. Naturally, we would prefer to contact parents via an SMS message, as this will provide much more timely and useful information than a printout.
CHANGES
The biggest change with our new SMS System is that the current SMS Mobile Number will no longer exist. It is important that when receiving an SMS you simply reply to the message sent, on the day you receive it. You will notice that the number will change with each SMS message received so please do not store any of these numbers!
TYPES OF MESSAGES
There will initially only be 3 types of SMS Messages sent by the school. These messages will be both one way and "two way" type messages. A "One Way" message does not require a reply whilst a "Two way" message will allow you to reply to your received message via SMS.
Messages will be sent for the following circumstances:
whole day absences (two way message) late arrival to school (two way message) Early Leaver.
Notes for students who wish to leave school early due to medical appointments etc. must have their notes signed by a Deputy Principal who will issue your child with an Early Leavers Pass (one way message - no reply required)
REPLYING TO MESSAGES
On replying to messages kindly ensure you include the following:
Your child's full name. No abbreviations or preferred names please.
Roll Call Class and Year Reason for absence
Parents/Caregivers will be notified through both Westnews and the School Website on the new system's implementation date.
Your continued support in ensuring we maintain an effective and efficient communication system is appreciated.
Ms. Daniela Zanet - Head Teacher Administration
Posted April 11, 2008
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