District Launches ‘ParentSquare’ to Unify School Communications

Crete-Monee School District 201-U Meeting | September 2025

Article Summary: Crete-Monee School District 201-U is rolling out ParentSquare, a new unified communication platform designed to replace multiple existing apps and streamline engagement between schools and families. The system offers real-time translation in over 150 languages and will serve as the central hub for all district alerts and newsletters.

ParentSquare Key Points:

• Unified Platform: Replaces SchoolMessenger, ClassDojo, Remind, and Peachjar.

• Translation: Automatically translates communications into parents’ preferred languages (150+ available).

• Launch Date: Phase 1 rollout for alerts, attendance, and newsletters begins September 22, 2025.

• Phase 2: Two-way direct messaging and teacher-specific communications will launch in February 2026.

The Crete-Monee School District 201-U Board of Education on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, received a presentation on the district’s new communication platform, ParentSquare.

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Ghantel Perkins presented the new system, describing it as a “one-stop shop” for families. The platform replaces disparate systems previously used by the district, including SchoolMessenger, ClassDojo, Remind, and Peachjar, consolidating them into a single app.

“If you have a child at Talala Elementary and CM High School, parents can view communications for both schools in the ParentSquare app,” the presentation materials stated.

A primary feature of the new platform is its ability to provide real-time translation. Communications sent by the district will automatically appear on a parent’s device in their registered home language.

“All communication will be translated into the registered language of parents/guardians as ISBE requires that we communicate with parents in their home language,” Dr. Perkins told the board.

The rollout is occurring in two phases. Phase 1, beginning September 22, 2025, covers district-wide alerts, attendance notifications, bus route updates, and newsletters. Phase 2, scheduled for February 13, 2026, will introduce direct two-way messaging between teachers and parents and classroom-specific updates.

The district has already begun training administrators and office staff. A campaign titled “Connecting Families, Building Communities” will launch in October to encourage families to download the app and verify their contact information.