ALACHUA COUNTY – As the 2025–26 academic year gets underway, Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS) is rolling out a suite of new communication tools aimed at streamlining connections between families, schools, and the broader community.
The district introduced a redesigned website earlier this summer at alachuaschools.net, along with a new mass notification system called Alerts. The changes followed the expiration of contracts with the previous vendors for the website and messaging service on June 30.
On Aug. 13, two additional platforms were launched to expand school-to-home communication.
The first is the Alachua County Public Schools mobile app, available for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app offers one-stop access to school messages, calendars, lunch menus, and other resources. Users can choose to follow specific schools and enable notifications to receive timely updates.
The second is Rooms, a secure, two-way messaging feature built into both the mobile app and district website. Rooms allows families to communicate directly with teachers, principals, coaches, and club sponsors. It supports class announcements, team updates, and private conversations in one platform, reducing the need for multiple apps or logins.
Notifications from Rooms are sent automatically by text message, even to families who have not downloaded the app. The system includes safety and moderation features designed to meet district standards for security and accessibility.
“By bringing everything into one clear and consistent system, we are making it easier for families to stay engaged with their child’s education,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kamela Patton said. “We are excited to offer a more connected and user-friendly experience this school year.”
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Alachua County Schools Debut Upgraded Communication Platforms
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