ParentSquare for Staff

Communcations icons above a cell phone with text: ParentSquare

As part of our continued commitment to enhancing family engagement and supporting clear, consistent communication within Wissahickon School District, we are pleased to introduce ParentSquare, a new all‑in‑one communication platform the district will begin using in the 2026–2027 school year. ParentSquare brings district, school, and classroom messages together in one place—making school‑to‑home communication easier for staff and more accessible for families.

As key members of Wissahickon School District, your use of ParentSquare plays an important role in helping us create a more connected and informed school community. Read more below to learn about the features and benefits of ParentSquare, and be sure to review the available resources and training to get started with the platform.

Let's Get Started

Step 1: Account Activation Process

Receive Your Invitation: Check your official WSD school email for an invitation to join ParentSquare.
Locate the ParentSquare Email: Examine your inbox, and if needed, your spam or promotions folders, for the ParentSquare invitation.
Click the Activation Link: Inside the invitation email, there's a direct link to ParentSquare. Click it.
Choose 'Sign in with Microsoft ': Upon landing on the ParentSquare page, opt for 'Sign in with Microsoft ' and authenticate using your WSD school email.
Begin Exploring ParentSquare: Once authenticated, you're ready to dive into ParentSquare, making the most of its diverse features and enhancing your connection with the WSD community.

Note: Using Microsoft Sign-In simplifies access and enhances security. Always remember to log out if accessing from shared devices.

Step 2: Accessing ParentSquare

Versatile Access for Every User

How-to: Navigate to parentsquare.com and sign in with your designated credentials.
Benefit: Obtain a comprehensive view on a wide screen, making it easier to manage multiple tasks or delve deep into settings and features.

Mobile App Access:

How-to: Download the ParentSquare app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). After installation, use your established login credentials or set up a new account via a school invitation.
Benefit: Seamlessly connect on-the-move, ensuring you're always in touch with school events, messages, and updates.

Setting Up the ParentSquare App

Accessing school communication has never been easier thanks to the ParentSquare mobile app. Follow these steps to get started:

Download the App: Visit the App Store on your iOS device or Google Play Store on your Android device. Search for "ParentSquare" and download the free app to your device.
Open the App: Once the download is complete, open the app. You'll be prompted to enter your login information. If you've previously set up your ParentSquare account on a desktop, use the same email and password. If you're new to ParentSquare, you will need an invitation from your school to set up a new account.
Access Your Account: After logging in, you will be brought to the main screen of the app. Here, you can view posts, messages, events, and other important information from your school or district.

Benefits of the ParentSquare App

The ParentSquare app offers several advantages for on-the-go parents and guardians:

Convenience: With the mobile app, school communication is available right at your fingertips. Whether you're at work, on the road, or out shopping, you can stay connected with your child's school activities.
Instant Notifications: You will receive notifications directly on your phone, making it easier to stay informed about last-minute changes, emergencies, or other urgent school news.
Multi-channel Communication: Receive and send messages, view and RSVP to school events, sign forms and permission slips, and directly message teachers and staff - all from your mobile device.
Language Preferences: The app supports multiple languages, enabling communication in your preferred language.
Community Engagement: Engage with other parents and school staff through group messages and comments on school posts, promoting a connected school community.

Setting Up Preferences in the App

To ensure the app works best for you, it's important to set your preferences:

Access Preferences: Tap the three lines in the upper left corner to open the menu. Then, tap your name at the top of the menu. From here, select 'Account Settings.'
Adjust Settings: In the 'Account Settings' screen, you can customize your notification preferences. Choose whether to receive email, text, or app notifications for messages, posts, and alerts. You can also set your preferred language and choose to receive a daily digest of all school communications.
Save Preferences: Make sure to tap 'Save' after making changes to ensure your preferences are updated.

Remember, if you need any help setting up or using the ParentSquare app, you can reach out to the WSD communications team at communications@wsdweb.org. Enjoy the streamlined, efficient communication that the ParentSquare app offers!

Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with ParentSquare Features

Dashboard Navigation: Once logged in, you'll land on the main dashboard. This is your central hub for all ParentSquare activities. Here, you'll find an overview of recent posts, upcoming events, and any direct messages.
Understanding Communication Tools: ParentSquare offers several ways to connect. From plain messages to event announcements or volunteer requests, understanding how to craft and send each type of message ensures you communicate effectively with your audience.
Engage with Engagement Tools: Dive into the engagement tools section. Whether you're looking to share class photos, request classroom supplies, or create groups for specific projects, these tools are designed to foster better interactions with parents and students.
Integrated Calendar: Familiarize yourself with the calendar function. Here, you can add class events, field trips, or other important dates. It’s a centralized spot for all class-related activities, ensuring everyone stays informed.
Direct Messaging: Understand the nuances of direct messaging. Whether you're reaching out to a particular parent or a group of staff members, this tool offers a private and streamlined way to communicate.
Support & Resources: Lastly, don’t overlook the help section. The 'Help Articles' and other resources can answer most questions you may have, ensuring you get the most out of ParentSquare.

Tip: Spend a little time each day during your first week exploring different features of ParentSquare. This gradual approach will help you get acclimated without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, the platform is designed to be intuitive, and with a bit of hands-on experience, you'll soon become a ParentSquare pro!

Step 4: Mastering the Basics

Transitioning to a new communication platform can seem daunting, but with ParentSquare, it’s designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. To help you quickly familiarize yourself and maximize the platform's offerings, follow this quick-start guide:

1. Video Introduction:

Watch the Teacher Video - Navigation Basics: Start with the tutorial video which provides a visual walkthrough of the platform's main features. This will give you a overview of how to use ParentSquare in your classroom.

2. Assigning Roles:

Designate a Co-Teacher, Room Parent, or Assistant: By assigning roles, you can distribute responsibilities, making classroom management more efficient.

3. Kickstart Engagement:

Send a Welcome Message Post: An initial greeting post can set a warm tone for all subsequent interactions on the platform.

4. Schedule Ahead:

Add Events to Your Class Calendar: Populate your class calendar with upcoming events, helping parents stay informed and plan ahead.

5. Personalize Your Outreach

Send a Private Message to a Parent: Experience the direct messaging feature by sending a personalized note to a parent.

6. Share Classroom Moments:

Post a Class Photo to ParentSquare: By sharing photos, you foster a sense of community and give parents a window into classroom activities.

7. Streamline Administrative Tasks:

Upload Forms and Flyers: Centralize all essential documents, making it easy for parents to access them anytime.
Create a Form or Permission Slip: Utilize the platform’s features to gather necessary permissions digitally.
Create Parent-Teacher Appointment Sign-Up: Simplify the scheduling process for parent-teacher meetings.
Develop a Classroom Wishlist: Share classroom needs with parents, making it easy for them to contribute.

8. Access Essentials:

Access Your Class Directory: Keep track of all students and parents associated with your class for smooth communication.

9. Foster Sub-Communities:

Create an After-School Group in ParentSquare: For extracurriculars or special projects, create specific groups to keep relevant communication organized.

10. Stay Connected on the Go:

Download the Mobile App: With the ParentSquare mobile app, you can stay connected, get instant notifications, and manage your class even when you’re away from your desktop.

As you explore these initial steps, you'll find ParentSquare to be a versatile tool that adapts to your classroom’s unique requirements. Dive in, and experience a new era of streamlined classroom communication!

Step 5: Explore Advanced Features

Mastering the Basics is just the start. As you get comfortable with ParentSquare's essential functions, it's time to harness the power of its advanced features. These capabilities are designed to further enhance communication, organization, and engagement with parents and students.

1. Comprehensive Delivery Analytics:

View Delivery Statistics: This is more than just a confirmation of message sent. Dive into detailed insights like who has opened, read, and engaged with your posts or messages. By understanding these statistics, you can adapt your communication strategies to ensure maximum reach and effectiveness.

2. Streamlined Scheduling:

Create an Appointment Sign Up: ParentSquare streamlines the scheduling process, eliminating tedious back-and-forths by offering an intuitive interface where educators can set time slots and parents can easily book their preferred times. This versatile tool is ideal not only for parent-teacher conferences but also for specialized events like on-campus activities and health-related appointments.

3. Fostering Specific Communities:

Create Groups: Whether it’s a reading club, a committee for the upcoming school fair, or a discussion group on curriculum changes, ParentSquare allows you to form specific groups. These dedicated spaces ensure that relevant information is shared with the right audience, reducing unnecessary clutter and fostering focused discussions.

The advanced features of ParentSquare are designed with educators in mind, aiming to alleviate the administrative load and allow more time for what truly matters - nurturing and educating students. Dive deep, explore, and let ParentSquare's advanced features propel your communication to the next level.

Step 6: Need Assistance?

ParentSquare is designed to be user-friendly, but like any robust platform, there might be moments when you need a bit more guidance. Here's how to navigate the help resources:

In-app Guidance:

Desktop Version: Look for the question mark icon, typically located in the top right corner. Clicking on this will direct you to a suite of assistance options.
Mobile App: Tap on the triple bar icon at the top left corner to access the menu, then select the 'Help' tab. This section is stocked with ‘Help Articles’ that delve into a range of topics, providing step-by-step instructions, answers to frequently asked questions, and more.

Community Forums:

Engage with the ParentSquare community forums. This platform enables educators to interact with peers, sharing experiences, best practices, and troubleshooting tips. Whether you're encountering a common hurdle or seeking innovative ways to engage parents, there's a wealth of knowledge in the community just waiting to be tapped.

Personalized Support:

If you find yourself facing a particularly challenging issue or you simply prefer direct human interaction, ParentSquare has a dedicated support team ready to assist. They're trained to help you navigate any challenges, ensuring that your experience is smooth and efficient.

In every step of your ParentSquare journey, you're never alone. The combination of articles, forums, and direct support means that solutions are always just a click or tap away.

ParentSquare Learning

Videos & Resources

Videos & Resources

ParentSquare Articles & Resources

Key Features for Teachers and Staff

Unified Communications Hub

Designed to integrate multiple communication methods into one cohesive system, ParentSquare ensures educators can efficiently and effectively reach out to families with timely updates, event notifications, announcements, and more.

Key Components:

Multi-Modal Messaging:

Send text, images, files, or voice messages to families, catering to different preferences and ensuring the content is accessible.
Target messages to specific groups or the whole class as required.

Intuitive User Interface:

User-friendly design ensures that the process of composing and sending messages is straightforward.

Message Templates:

Pre-defined templates for regular communications like attendance notifications, event reminders, or homework alerts.
Customizable fields that let educators personalize these templates as per the specific need.

Real-time Notifications:

Instant alerts ensure parents receive and see important announcements as soon as they're sent.

Scheduled Messages:

Allows educators to compose a message in advance and set a future date and time for its delivery.
Helps in planning ahead, especially for regular or anticipated communications.

Language Translation

ParentSquare's Language Translation feature ensures that every parent, regardless of their native tongue, can understand and engage with the school's communications.

Key Components:

Automatic Translation:

Messages created by educators are instantly translated into the receiver's preferred language, ensuring immediate comprehension.
This feature covers a broad range of languages, catering to diverse linguistic backgrounds.

User-Friendly Selection:

Parents can effortlessly set their language preference in their profiles, and all subsequent communications will automatically be delivered in that chosen language.

High-Quality Translations:

The system ensures the translations are contextually accurate, preserving the intended meaning and tone of the original message.

Bilingual Messages:

For added clarity, educators can choose to send messages in both English and the home language of the recipient, ensuring no details are lost in translation.

Accessible Everywhere

ParentSquare allows educators, parents, and students can stay connected, no matter where they are.

Key Components:

Multi-Platform Access:

Whether you're using a computer, tablet, or smartphone, ParentSquare is available. This ensures that no matter what device is at hand, communication remains unhindered.

Mobile App:

ParentSquare offers dedicated apps for both iOS and Android devices. These apps are designed to provide a smooth, app-native experience, with push notifications ensuring real-time updates.

Web Portal:

For those who prefer using a desktop or don’t have the mobile app, ParentSquare's web portal provides full functionality, ensuring you can access all features from a browser.

Offline Notifications:

Even without internet access, users can receive critical notifications through SMS text messages, ensuring that essential communications are not missed.

Cloud-Based System:

All data and communications are stored securely in the cloud, which means users can access them from any location, without the need for local storage or backups.

Direct Messaging

Direct Messaging is one of the standout features of ParentSquare, allowing a streamlined, private, and instant method of communication between educators, staff, and parents.

Key Components:

One-on-One Communication:

Teachers and staff can engage in individual conversations with parents, ensuring privacy and promoting focused discussions about specific students or events.

Group Messaging:

For collaborative projects, parent-teacher associations, or group activities, educators can create group chats that bring multiple parents or staff members into one conversation.

Attachment Support:

Send documents, photos, or files directly through the messaging system. This is especially handy for sharing photos from school events, or important documents that require immediate attention.

Notification System:

Users are notified instantly when they receive a direct message, ensuring that important communications are never missed.

Searchable Conversations:

Easily search through past messages to retrieve important information or reminders, making record-keeping and reference hassle-free.

Student, Parent and Class Roster Access

ParentSquare's Class Roster Access equips educators with a comprehensive view of their students to make school-home communication fast and easy.

Key Components:

Instant Access to Student Contacts:

While parent and student contact information resides in Infinite Campus, ParentSquare's roster allows quick access to basic student information and their associated guardians or parents.

Communication Link:

Reach out to a student’s guardian or parent directly from the roster. This direct line ensures timely updates, clarifications, or sharing of achievements.

Integration with Other ParentSquare Features:

Utilizing the roster, educators can effortlessly schedule parent-teacher conferences, dispatch group messages, or coordinate volunteers, making it an essential tool in the classroom management toolkit.

Filter and Search:

Zero in on specific students or groups swiftly with intuitive filtering and search functions.

Integrated Calendar

The Integrated Calendar feature of ParentSquare serves as a central hub for all school-related events, activities, and important dates.

Key Components:

Unified Event Tracking:

Easily schedule and track classroom activities, parent-teacher meetings, field trips, school-wide events, and more, all in one place.

RSVP & Attendance Tracking:

Schedule events and request RSVPs from parents or staff, allowing for efficient planning and resource allocation based on expected attendance.

Reminders and Notifications:

Automatic reminders ensure that upcoming events are not forgotten, and notifications can be sent out for any changes or cancellations.

Sync with Personal Calendars:

Users have the option to synchronize the ParentSquare calendar with their personal digital calendars, ensuring seamless integration into their daily schedules.

Event Documentation:

Attach important documents, forms, or images to specific calendar events, making it easy for parents and staff to access necessary materials related to an event.

Engagement Tools

ParentSquare's suite of Engagement Tools is specifically designed to support classroom and group management.

Key Components:

Direct and Group Messaging:

Enables educators to communicate one-on-one with parents or broadcast messages to a group or class. This ensures tailored communication based on the content and intended recipients.

Event and Volunteer Sign-ups:

Organize school events, class trips, or workshops with ease. Create sign-ups for parent volunteers or RSVPs, making event management a seamless process.

Interactive Calendar:

Educators can share important dates, from assignment deadlines to parent-teacher conferences, ensuring parents remain in the loop and can plan accordingly.

Multimedia Sharing:

Share classroom moments, be it photos, videos, or important documents. This gives parents a window into their child's classroom experiences.

Feedback and Surveys:

Gather valuable feedback from parents on various aspects, from school policies to specific classroom activities. This direct feedback can help in refining teaching methodologies and school processes.

File and Photo Sharing

ParentSquare's File & Photo Sharing feature offers educators a platform to seamlessly share classroom experiences and essential resources with parents.

Key Components:

Easy Uploads:

With intuitive user interfaces, teachers and staff can easily upload photos or files from their devices, ensuring parents have instant access to the materials shared.

Organized Galleries:

Photos can be curated into albums or galleries based on events, projects, or classroom activities, making it easy for parents to navigate and view.

Document Repository:

Important documents, worksheets, syllabi, and other academic materials can be shared. This not only helps parents stay informed but also allows them to support their child's learning journey at home.

Privacy Controls:

Teachers have the control to decide who gets access to what. This ensures that photos or files are only visible to the intended audience, maintaining student confidentiality.

Group Creation

ParentSquare's Group Creation feature allows teachers and staff to set up specific groups to ensure that pertinent information reaches the right audience.

Key Components:

Intuitive Setup:

Setting up a group in ParentSquare is straightforward, enabling teachers and staff to form groups based on classroom divisions, committees, extracurricular activities, or any other category relevant to school operations.

Customizable Group Settings:

Administrators and group creators can adjust settings to determine group visibility, member addition rights, and the nature of posts (public or members-only).

Member Management:

Group creators have the authority to add or remove members, ensuring that the group remains updated with relevant stakeholders.

Direct & Targeted Communication:

Messages and notifications can be sent directly to a specific group, eliminating the noise of irrelevant information and enhancing the relevance of communications.

Easy Appointment Setup

One of the standout features of ParentSquare is its user-friendly appointment set-up capability. This feature simplifies the often complicated and time-consuming process of scheduling meetings, conferences, and other important interactions between staff, parents, and students.

Key Components:

Intuitive Interface:

The system guides users through the appointment creation process step by step, eliminating guesswork and making it easy for even those with limited tech proficiency.

Customizable Time Slots:

Educators can set specific time slots based on their availability, ensuring that they can manage their time effectively.

Automatic Notifications:

Once an appointment is scheduled, automatic notifications are sent to involved parties, reducing the chances of no-shows or double bookings.

One-Click Rescheduling:

In case of unforeseen conflicts, appointments can be easily rescheduled with a simple click, and all involved parties are instantly notified of the change.

Integrated Calendar Sync:

Appointments set up on ParentSquare can be seamlessly synchronized with external calendars, ensuring users have a consolidated view of their schedules.