GRANTS, N.M. Grants High School is set to serve as the pilot site, patterning with Edia Learning to introduce the AI Attendance Assistant, beginning April 9. This platforms aims to enhance communication between the school and families regarding student attendance, making a significant step forward from traditional robocalls.
Pilot and Purpose
As the pilot site for this initiative, Grants High School will serve as a model for integrating technology into day-today communication. According to the school’s outreach coordinator, Patricia Garcia, the AI Attendance Assistant is designed not just to inform parents when their child misses a class but also to create a two-way dialogue. Unlike the robocalls previously used, this new system facilitates direct text messaging, allowing for quick and easy communication.
How the System Works
The AI Attendance Assistant has been seamlessly integrated with the school’s Student Information system. When a student is marked absent, automated text notification will be dispatched to parents or guardians who have opted to share their cell phone numbers. This immediate outreach allows families to respond directly with information regarding the absence, ensuring the school stays informed. Mrs. Garcia explained, “Parents can respond directly to the message to provide information about the absence or share any relevant details with the school.”
Key Features and Benefits
A notable advantage of the AI Attendance Assistant is its ability to foster two-way communication. Familiarity with attendance notifications through robocalls will now be enhancedparents can not only receive notifications but also respond via text. This interactive feature may even allow parents to submit documentation, such as doctor’s notes, directly through the messaging system when necessary.
Mrs. Garcia added, “With features like quick notifications, responsiveness, and the ability to cater to diverse languages, this initiative promises to streamline attendance communication and bolster family engagement, putting the well-being of students at the forefront.”
Family Notification and Support for Parents
The rollout of this system commenced on April 9, with families already being notified through Grants High School’s social media channels and prior robocalls. Mrs. Garcia explained that all GHS families with their phone number currently on file have been notified, as well as given a follow-up reminder prior to the rollout. Additionally, contact information for any inquiries or concerns was provided.
To ensure a smooth transition, school staff have undergone training on this new platform. Designed to be user-friendly, the AI Attendance Assistant operated similarly to regular text messaging, making it accessible for all families. Although responses are not mandatory, the option for parents to communicate via text provides a convenient alternative for those who prefer digital methods.
Questions or Concerns
Parents with any questions or concerns, either before or after the system’s implementation, are encouraged to reach out to the school directly for assistance. Mrs. Garcia stated, “The district will also provide contact information for additional support if needed.”