Remind is a simple tool that utilizes text to communicate with students. It has apps available for both iOS and Android devices. And your phone number stays anonymous.
Cel.ly is a web based tool that uses cell phones to communicate information, however, this is a more powerful tool since you can choose to use it with groups or different classes, selecting who you communicate with and what. It also has polling capabilities which comes in handy.
LMS or Learning Management Systems
These can be free or those purchased/ provided by your school. Essentially it allows for asynchronous or synchronous learning online for your students. Typically is allows you to send notifications and stay truly connected to your students. These are a few that I have utilized in my schools currently. Most offer a free version you can 'test' out, and each have pros and cons. If utilized correctly, they can be a powerful tool for your classroom.
These can be free or those purchased/ provided by your school. Essentially it allows for asynchronous or synchronous learning online for your students. Typically is allows you to send notifications and stay truly connected to your students. These are a few that I have utilized in my schools currently. Most offer a free version you can 'test' out, and each have pros and cons. If utilized correctly, they can be a powerful tool for your classroom.