Gmail in the Classroom

Although I'm not in a classroom at this time, I would use gmail for a variety of things.  I would use gmail to send out reminders and many types of communication to students.  I'd have students ask questions via email, particularly if they don't feel comfortable responding in class.  I would set up groups and labels to keep everything organized.  I'd also use it to communicate with parents, both individually and as a group.  I'd use it to send class newsletters (or links to the class webpage) and reminders.  I'd also use it to communicate with parents about grades and assignments.  Several of my daughter's teachers do this and it's very helpful for parents.