Technology enables schools to easily connect with parents

An article written in STLtoday.com called "Parents get the message" writes how schools rely on technology to send messages to thousands of parents in minutes. Schools across North America are now using various communication software to contact parents or staff for school updates and emergencies. Email was thought to be the way to contact parents but many families still do not have computers at home or access through work. Rural school districts are even looking at using these communication tools to contact students who are on bus routes if their bus breaks down.

Question: What systems does your school have in place to connect ALL of your school community? Are these systems reliable?