Smarter Week

How to automate it

How to automate “chase permission slips, forms and money”

Here are 2 ways to spend less time on this, best first. Each comes with steps you can follow today.

30 min
typically, once a week
60%
of the time can be automated
Easy
to set up

Fix 1 of 2

Software featureBest fix

Collect slips, money and incident logs with online forms

Online forms and payment links replace paper slips you chase and count. A short behavior form or the logging in your student system replaces handwritten notes.

Typically saves about 45% of the time20 min to set up
  1. 1Use Google Forms, Microsoft Forms, ParentSquare forms or your school's payment system for trips and slips.
  2. 2Send the link through the family messaging app.
  3. 3Log behavior in your student information system or school behavior app on your phone right after it happens.
  4. 4Check the response list instead of counting paper.

Tools: Google Forms or Microsoft Forms · ParentSquare · Your SIS or behavior app (PowerSchool, Infinite Campus, LiveSchool)

Fix 2 of 2

Software feature

Send class messages and forms through a family messaging app

Apps like ParentSquare, ClassDojo, Remind and TalkingPoints send one message to every family, translate it automatically, show who read it, and collect forms and sign-ups.

Typically saves about 45% of the time20 min to set up
  1. 1Use the app your school already has.
  2. 2Post class updates once a week instead of single emails.
  3. 3Use built-in forms and sign-ups for permission slips and volunteers.
  4. 4Check read receipts and follow up only with families who did not see it.

Tools: ParentSquare · ClassDojo · Remind · TalkingPoints · Seesaw

Quick wins

Have you tried…

Do you send class news and permission slips through a family messaging app?
Apps like ParentSquare or ClassDojo send one message to all families, translate it, and collect forms. You can see who has read it.

Who does this task

Roles in our library that list this as one of their common tasks. Each guide covers the rest of that role’s week.

Teacher

HourLeak · the 8-minute work audit

How many hours does this cost you?

The free 8-minute check works out where your week goes and gives you your top fixes. The team scan does the same for everyone and adds it up, so you know which leaks to fix first.

Take the free check Scan my team, $49

Answers are anonymous. Leaders only see team totals.

Other common tasks for Teachers