ParentSquare is a unified, two-way communication platform that helps District 51 schools connect with families in a simple, efficient, and engaging way. With ParentSquare, parents and guardians can receive updates, join conversations, sign forms, and stay involved—all from one easy-to-use website or mobile app. It brings our school community together by making communication timely, accessible, and convenient for everyone.

ParentSquare Overview Video 

• Current communication comes from too many tools and formats.
• Families experience inconsistent messages across schools.
• ParentSquare provides one unified, accessible platform.
• Supports the Strategic Plan goal to strengthen family engagement and streamline communication systems.

Teachers ✔
Support Staff ✔
Secretaries & Office Staff ✔
Principals & Admin ✔
Coaches & Activity Sponsors ✔
Community Groups (I.e. PTAs/PTOs) ✔
District Communications Office ✔
Families ✔

• Look for an invitation from your school sent to the email address or phone number they have on file.
• Open the invitation and click - Activate Your Account.
• Follow the prompts to confirm your contact information and connect your children.
• After your account is set up, you can log in from any web browser.
• For quick access on the go, download the free ParentSquare mobile app for iPhone or Android.
• If any information appears incorrect (name, email, phone number, or missing child), please contact your school office for assistance.

District 51 has selected a group of schools to pilot the ParentSquare platform in December. Using the training and feedback from these pilot sites, we will finalize our rollout plans and begin implementing ParentSquare districtwide on January 7, 2026.

District 51 Families - be on the lookout for an invitation email in your inbox!

Families are not required to download the ParentSquare app to receive communication. ParentSquare automatically delivers messages to the contact information you have on file in Synergy. If you choose not to use the app, you will still receive:

• Email notifications
• Text messages (if text messaging is enabled on your account)
• Phone calls for urgent or emergency communication

Downloading the app simply gives you additional features—such as customizing notification preferences, responding to messages, viewing posts in one place, completing forms, and accessing past communication more easily.

Whether you use the app or not, you will continue receiving important updates from your school and District 51.

ParentSquare will take the place of tools previously used for communication, including:

• SchoolMessenger
• ClassDojo messaging (behavior tools may continue temporarily)
• Remind, TalkingPoints, and similar messaging apps
• Google Groups/listservs

Yes, but only temporarily. While messages will move to ParentSquare starting in January, teachers may continue using ClassDojo for behavior points and portfolios through May 2026. This gives everyone time to adjust.

ParentSquare connects directly to our student system, Synergy. Class lists, contact information, and attendance updates are automatically synced every night.

If you need to update your phone number, email, or name, please contact your school — changes must be made in Synergy first for ParentSquare to update.

Yes. ParentSquare automatically sends messages in your preferred language, and you can reply in that language as well.

Yes, ParentSquare gives you control over how and when you receive messages from your child’s school or district. You can customize your preferences so communication works for you and your family. You can choose text, email, app notifications, or a daily digest sent at 6 PM.

Some messages, such as attendance or emergency alerts, cannot be turned off. More information about how to customize these preferences can be found on ParentSquare - Help 

Yes. While ParentSquare will be the main platform for school-to-home communication, some communication will still occur through other tools depending on the purpose. Email through Synergy will continue to be used for one-to-one or confidential conversations between staff and families.
Peachjar will continue distributing approved community flyers, and social media will remain a space for public celebrations and storytelling.
ParentSquare will simplify most communication, but these other tools will still play a role where appropriate.

ParentSquare has built-in tools for forms and sign-ups, and schools may choose to use them. Some schools may continue using existing tools during this transition.

Everyone! ParentSquare is our District’s new districtwide communication platform.

• Teachers will send classroom updates and reminders.
• Schools will share schoolwide announcements and newsletters.
• The district will send districtwide updates and emergency communication.

Some messages may allow comments, but not all will open two-way messaging.

Yes, over time. These groups will also use ParentSquare so families can find everything in one place.

You can adjust your settings, including a daily digest option. As part of the rollout, staff will receive guidance to avoid message overload, but we hope that with the ability to customize what works best for you and your family, you will feel more connected, engaged, and informed!

You can combine your employee and parent access into one ParentSquare account, allowing you to easily switch between roles without logging in and out. If your account doesn’t merge after you request it to, or if something looks incorrect, please reach out to your school office or the help desk for support.

You can access additional information and support resources through our webpage at www.d51schools.org/d51onparentsquare

If you need additional support:

• Call your child’s school office
• The District Communications Office: 970-254-7912
• The IT Help Desk: 970-254-5175
• Fill out the ParentSquare Feedback Form on the website