To ensure efficient and effective communication between home and school, we would like to remind all families of our communication protocols and VSWare procedures. Please take a moment to review this information carefully.

Check First, Then Contact

Before sending a VSMail message, please:

1. Check the school website (www.sandymountparketss.ie) for relevant information
2. Review your child’s journal for information, updates and notices
3. Ask your child about the matter – they may have the information you need

Many queries can be answered by checking these resources first. This helps our staff dedicate more time to student learning and ensures you receive information immediately without waiting for a response.

Regular Website Monitoring

Please make it a habit to check our school website regularly. Important updates, school policies, event information, calendars, and key documents are published on the website for easy parent access. Regular checking ensures you stay informed about:

• School events and activities
• Policy updates and procedures
• Important dates and deadlines
• School news and announcements
• Downloadable resources and guides

Official Communication Channels

All written communication with school staff must be conducted through VSMail via the VSWare app.

Please note that emails sent directly to teachers, tutors, progress leaders, or SNAs will not be responded to. This policy  ensures all communications are managed efficiently through one centralised system and supports our staff’s wellbeing.

Communication Protocol Guide

Depending on the nature of your concern, please follow the appropriate communication pathway:

General Concerns

• Contact your child’s class tutor via VSMail
• Request a call back if necessary

Subject-Specific Concerns

• Contact the relevant subject teacher via VSMail
• Request a call back if necessary

Serious Concerns

• Contact your child’s Progress Leader via VSMail
• Request a call back if necessary

VSMail Best Practices

When sending VSMail messages, please keep the following in mind:

Timing:

• Send messages during school hours (8am–4pm)
• Allow reasonable time for responses – replies may not be immediate

Content:

• Keep messages concise and focused
• Use a respectful tone in all correspondence

Teachers’ primary responsibilities include lesson planning and delivery, assessment and reporting, pastoral care, and extracurricular activities. Please be mindful of their workload and understand that they will respond as promptly as possible.

Attendance & Late Arrivals – VSWare App Only

All attendance updates and notifications of late arrivals must be submitted through the VSWare app.

Please do not contact the school office directly regarding attendance or lates. Using the VSWare app ensures information is recorded accurately and efficiently.

VSWare Login Issues?

If you have forgotten your login credentials or are experiencing technical difficulties with the app, please contact the Deputy Principal Aisling via VSMail for assistance.

Detailed guides for using VSWare and VSMail are available on our school website: www.sandymountparketss.ie

Why These Procedures Matter

These communication protocols have been established to:

• Ensure all parent communications are tracked and responded to appropriately
• Enable teachers to dedicate their time primarily to supporting student learning
• Provide clear pathways for addressing concerns at the appropriate level
• Support staff wellbeing by managing communication workload effectively
• Create an efficient, centralised system that benefits the entire school community

Next Steps for Parents

1. Bookmark our website and check it regularly for updates
2. Check the website, journal, and speak with your child before contacting staff
3. Download the VSWare app if you haven’t already done so
4. Ensure you have your login credentials – contact Aisling if needed
5. Use VSMail exclusively for all written communication with staff
6. Report all attendance/late arrivals through the VSWare app only

Thank You

We appreciate your cooperation in following these procedures. By checking available resources first and using the correct communication channels, we can ensure queries are addressed efficiently and that our staff can focus their energy on providing the best possible educational experience for your children.