Gmail in the Classroom

I have not used Gmail in the classroom. However, I believe that it could be a great way for students to communicate with their parents about their progress for the week. They could tell their parents what they learned, how their week went, and what they hope will happen next week. It could also be used as a tool for students to ask parents questions about what they are to do after school or if they need an item from home that their parents could bring in for them.