Middletown USD

Middletown Middle School

Middletown High School

Now that your team group is set up, here’s how you can make the most of ParentSquare to communicate effectively with athletes and families. 

1. Use Posts for Team Updates

Posts are the foundation of communication in ParentSquare. They’re perfect for sharing information, announcements, and updates with your entire team.

Benefits of Posts

• Team members receive post notifications through their preferred channel — app, text, or email.
• Families can choose real-time updates or a daily email digest.
• Posts are automatically translated into the recipient’s preferred language.
• You can allow public or private comments, or disable them entirely.
• Members can “Appreciate” posts to show acknowledgment or support.
   

💡 Tip: Encourage families to review and customize their notification settings so they get updates in the way that works best for them.

2. Creating a Post

Creating a post is quick and easy — you can include text, images, videos, or attachments.

To Create a Post:

1. Go to your team group.
   Click “Create Post.”
2. Add your title and message.
3. Attach photos, files, or links if needed.
4. Choose notification settings (instant or daily digest).
5. Post to your group.
    

💡 Tip: For time-sensitive updates (like game cancellations or last-minute schedule changes), select “Send Instantly.”

3. Add-Ons to Manage Team Logistics

ParentSquare offers optional tools to help you organize and streamline participation — all in one place.

Available Add-Ons Include:

• Calendar Entries: Add team events, practices, or games.
• RSVPs: Track attendance for events.
• Volunteer Sign-Ups: Coordinate snack schedules, chaperones, or event helpers.
• Forms & Permission Slips: Collect digital forms and responses.
• Polls: Get quick feedback from families.
• Payments & Donations: Collect team fees or contributions (if enabled by your district).
• Calendars: Link existing calendars to keep everyone updated.
   

4. Ideas for Team Posts

Use posts to cover all aspects of team communication — from motivation to logistics.

Team Announcements

• General updates or motivational messages
• Major announcements (team selections, awards)
• Celebrations (birthdays, milestones)
• Positive shout-outs and encouragement
   

Scheduling and Reminders

• Share practice and game schedules
• Post RSVP requests
• Send event reminders
• Announce last-minute changes (delays, cancellations)
   

Logistics and Participation

• Collect permission slips and forms
• Conduct polls or surveys
• Organize volunteer and snack sign-ups
• Collect payments or donations
   

Media and Resources

• Share photos and videos from games or practices
• Upload resources like training plans, nutrition guides, or instructional videos
   

5. Two-Way Communication

ParentSquare isn’t just for announcements — it also supports private and group messaging for ongoing communication.

Direct Messages

• Send private messages to one or multiple recipients (up to 150).
• Replies go only to you (like BCC in email).
• Ideal for:
   
  • Answering individual questions
  • Following up with a parent
  • Sharing personal encouragement or feedback
     

Group Conversations

• Message smaller groups (up to 50 users) who can reply to everyone (like CC in email).
• Conversations remain viewable for all participants, even if deleted by the creator.
• Great for:
   
  • Coordinating volunteers
  • Organizing small-group practices
  • Planning team celebrations
     

💡 Tip: All messages are archived for accountability and oversight, even if deleted by the sender.

6. Quick Best Practices for Coaches

 ✅ Post regularly to keep your team informed and connected.
✅ Use instant send for time-sensitive information.
✅ Keep all team communication in ParentSquare for consistency.
✅ Encourage parents and players to adjust their notification settings.
✅ Celebrate team wins and recognize effort often!

Keynotes:

• Team or parents can scan QR to join.
• Site Secretary can add members to your group.
• Coaches, Site Secretaries and ADs can approve and delete members within the group.
• Group messages will be archived June 30th of each year.

Step 1: Download the App

1. Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Search for “StudentSquare”.
3. Tap Download / Install.

Step 2: Open the App

1. Launch the app once installed.
2. Tap Create Account.
    

Step 3: Sign In With School Account

• Click “Sign In” or “Sign Up”.
• Enter your school email address.
• Enter your school password.

💡 Tip: If it says your email isn’t recognized, contact your school office to confirm your info is correct in the student system.

Step 4: Verify Your Account

1. Check your email for a verification message if prompted.
2. Click the verification link to confirm your account.

Step 5: Set Up Notifications

1. In the app, go to Settings → Notifications.
2. Enable notifications for messages, announcements, and events so you don’t miss 

important updates.

Step 6: Explore the App

• Inbox: See messages from teachers, coaches, or staff.
• Posts/Announcements: Check school-wide updates.
• Events: View upcoming school events, assignments, or reminders.
   

Step 7: Optional Settings

• Customize your profile picture (if allowed).
• Adjust notification preferences for quiet hours