Using GMAIL in the classroom

Using GMAIL in the classroom not only prepares my student for 21st century learning, but it also allows us as a community to communicate at any time and in many locations.  

As a teacher or academic leader, I would create contacts for my students and enter them in as a group.  This will allow me to share articles, quotes, missing assignments, and other resources to extend my classroom into the virtual reality.  

I could also use Gmail to email the class assignment due dates, reminders, or even events happening outside of the school - which may pertain to the topic - to get them involved with their community and connect school to project-based learning.