Gmail in the classroom

Gmail is a great tool for keeping contacts and messages organized.  The labels, filters, and favorites tools make it easy to stay in contact with parents, students, and other teachers all while staying organized.  Creating groups will make it easy to send out class updates and event information to all parents.  While having a "student" group will make it easy to send out reminders of upcoming projects and homework assignments.  I can also set up a time slot each week and let parents and students know that I will be signed on and available to chat should anyone have questions or matters they would like to discuss.