WDMCS is excited to announce that we are partnering with TalkingPoints to provide a way to connect with families through two-way, translated communication. Families receive a text in their primary language. They can respond in their primary language, and it is translated back into English for the teachers and staff to read.

We want to close the communication gap with our families whose primary language is not English. They may not use email, and texting is often the fastest way to reach them with a question or reminder. Blackboard does not currently offer this solution.

Watch this beginner video on how to send a message, how to view classes/rosters, and how to edit student information.

You can learn how to use TalkingPoints through training videos, online tutorials, or by reading help articles. Pick the format that fits your needs.

WHY IS THIS NEEDED?

We want to close the communication gap with our families whose primary language is not English. They may not use email, and texting is often the fastest way to reach them with a question or reminder. Blackboard does not currently offer this solution.

IS THIS FOR ALL STUDENTS AND FAMILIES?

Yes. Even though the translation component is important, this tool can be used for sending a text to any family.

WHEN WOULD I USE THIS INSTEAD OF BLACKBOARD?

TalkingPoints should be used when you want to receive a response from a parent/guardian. General reminders that do not require feedback can be sent through Blackboard.

WHAT ARE EXAMPLES OF HOW I WOULD USE THIS?

• Office staff may reach out to a parent/guardian if their student is absent or tardy.
• Teachers may reach out regarding a grade or assignment if other forms of communication are not successful.
• Principals can send schoolwide communication if they want to share an announcement that requires a response from parents/guardians.
• Family Engagement Specialists can connect with ESOL families to answer questions and provide support.

IS THERE ALSO AN APP? SHOULD WE ENCOURAGE FAMILIES TO USE IT?

While some families may have the TalkingPoints app, we are encouraging staff to not promote the app at this time. We would like to launch this tool by leveraging the texting features. Once a parent/guardian has downloaded and logged into the app, they will no longer receive texts.

WHAT IF I USED THE FREE VERSION AND HAD CREATED MY OWN GROUPS? WHAT NOW?

Because classroom rosters are now synced, you may no longer need to reference groups you created. If you created a group that was unique, please recreate the group. This will make groups easier to use because "legacy" groups pulled over from free accounts cannot be edited.

HOW MANY LANGUAGES ARE SUPPORTED?

TalkingPoints supports 145 languages and continues to add more each year.

WILL I NEED TO USE MY OWN CELL PHONE?

No. TalkingPoints can be accessed through a district desktop or laptop. A smartphone app is available but not required.

WHAT DOES THIS REPLACE?

Because we have purchased a districtwide license, this should replace any free version of TalkingPoints currently used by staff. This should also replace similar apps, such as Remind.

WHAT IF MY ROLE DOESN'T HAVE A "ROSTER" OF STUDENTS?

Non-rostered staff can include office staff, Family Engagement Specialists, and other staff who may provide support within a building but not in one specific classroom. These roles can look up student names and create groups to text parents/guardians.

CAN I ALSO TEXT STUDENTS?

At this point, TalkingPoints is only pulling in parent/guardian cell phone information. We are exploring ways to support staff who may need to text students through this tool. One example may be coaches who want to send reminders to their team AND get responses. Remember that Blackboard can send one-way text notifications and reminders.