Video Chat is the latest offering by SchoolStatus to help engage and connect with EVERY parent, regardless of their ability to visit in-person or download an app.
Give Parents a Heads Up
SchoolStatus makes it so easy to initiate a 1:1 Video Chat. Simply click the video icon while in an existing text thread. That sends a video link to the parent or guardian to join the meeting. We recommend coordinating the time for the Video Chat as to not surprise the parent with a video link.
You Might Have to Click 'Allow'
If you or other participants are having issues with seeing one another, you might have to click 'Allow Access to Microphone and Camera'. SchoolStatus uses a web browser-based technology called WebRTC. You might want to advise parents to click 'Allow' if you can't see their camera.
Be Prepared for a Video
Just like with Zooms or Google Meets, you want to be prepared for a SchoolStatus Video. Here's a checklist of things you might want to remember:
- Make sure your background is appropriate and quiet. Videos can be distracting if a lot is going on in the background for both you and the parent. Ensure you have a quiet and non-distracting space prior to your meeting.
- Have any supporting documentation ready. You may have an IEP, the student's recent classwork or homework, or other evidence you'd like to present to parents or guardians while on the video chat. Have those things ready prior to the meeting so you aren't fumbling around during the meeting, wasting precious time.
- Be cognizant of student data on your screen. If you choose to share your screen during the chat, make sure you are only showing the data for the student of the parents or guardians. Never show any other students' data.
- Be professional, courteous, and positive when interacting with parents. Remember that video chats are logged and recorded. You'll want to put your best foot forward to ensure you are building trust and community with parents every time you interact with them.
- Be on time. Schedule meetings when you know you can be punctual so you have the most successful video chat possible.
Watch Your Video Recordings
After a few minutes, the video recording will be available on the Student Card. Watch your video. Look for areas that you shined and areas where you could improve. Whether it's your tone, delivery, meeting content, we can always find areas of improvement, especially when we're doing something new!