Why one-way messaging isn’t a limitation – it’s a thoughtful choice

At mySchoolApp, we often get asked why we don’t offer two-way messaging like some other school communication platforms such as ClassDojo, do. After all, in a world where we can instantly message anyone at any time, surely it makes sense to bring that same approach into schools … right?

Well – not quite. Let us explain.

It’s not about doing less. It’s about doing what matters.

When we designed mySchoolApp, we had one big question in mind: What kind of communication actually supports schools best?
We quickly realised the answer wasn’t ‘more messages’ – it was better communication. Clear, timely, purposeful messages from school to home. Information that helps parents stay in the loop without turning every small update into a chat thread. No typing bubbles, no unread message anxiety, just… clarity.
So we focused on school-to-home messaging. Simple. One-way. Effective.
But there’s more to it than just keeping things tidy.

Think of the teachers (really, we do!)

One of the biggest concerns we hear from Headteachers is staff wellbeing. Teachers already go above and beyond – early mornings, busy classrooms, after-school clubs, marking, planning, meetings … the list goes on. Add dozens of parent messages pinging in after hours, and suddenly their already-stretched day turns into a round-the-clock job.
Two-way messaging sounds convenient – until it becomes unmanageable.
We’ve spoken to so many school leaders who’ve said the same thing: “We want to communicate better with parents – but we also need to protect our staff from burnout.”
And they’re right.
Teachers are human too. They need time to switch off. To rest. To be with their own families. Creating boundaries around communication isn’t a lack of care – it’s a way of making sure staff can keep doing what they do best, without feeling like they’re always ‘on call’.

Setting clear boundaries builds trust

We believe that strong communication builds strong school communities – but that doesn’t mean teachers should have to reply to messages at 9pm. Or at the weekend. Or on their holiday.
By keeping messaging one-way, mySchoolApp helps set clear expectations for everyone. Schools can share what matters, when it matters. Parents stay informed. And teachers aren’t overloaded with notifications or the pressure to respond out of hours.
It’s a win–win.

If parents want a conversation? Let’s have one – properly.

Of course, some things do need a two-way conversation. If there’s a concern or question, schools are always open to talk – just not through an instant message thread.
That’s what emails, phone calls and face-to-face meetings are for. They give time, space and context – and they help make sure the important stuff doesn’t get lost in a sea of emojis or quick-fire replies.
Thoughtful communication, designed for real life
So yes, we could have added two-way messaging. But we didn’t – on purpose.
Because sometimes, doing less actually gives schools and families more: more clarity, more calm, and more respect for everyone’s time and wellbeing.
And that’s what mySchoolApp is all about.

Find out more.

If you’re looking for a ClassDojo alternative, with UK-hosted data, let’s meet online where we can tell you more about how mySchoolApp can help. Book a call with one of the team.