Elementary ClassDojo Newsletter: How to Set Up Families for Success

ClassDojo and similar digital communication platforms work best when families understand how to use them before they receive their first notification. A teacher newsletter that explains the platform, sets communication expectations, and walks families through setup prevents the confusion that comes from the first ClassDojo message arriving without context.

Introducing the communication platform

Subject line: How we communicate this year: setting up your ClassDojo account and what to expect

Opening: This year, I will use ClassDojo to share classroom updates, photos of student work, and quick messages with families. Here is how to set up your account and what to expect when you do.

How to set up the account

Give step-by-step instructions for families who are not already using the platform. Include the invitation code or link. Note whether the setup requires a smartphone app or can be done from a desktop browser. Mention that the invitation code is specific to this classroom and year.

"If you have a smartphone: download the ClassDojo app (free, available on iOS and Android), create an account, and enter the code [code] to connect to our class. If you prefer a computer: go to classdojo.com, click 'I'm a Parent,' create an account, and use the same code."

Note that you will resend the code to families who cannot find the original email, and give them a contact method to request it.

What families will see on ClassDojo

Describe exactly what types of updates families will receive:

• Photos and short videos of classroom activities (posted to the class story)
• Announcements about upcoming dates and events
• Weekly class updates about what students are learning
• Individual behavior feedback if the class uses the points system
• Direct messages from the teacher

Being specific about content types prevents families from being surprised by a behavior point notification or confused about why they are receiving classroom photos.

How to communicate with the teacher through ClassDojo

Explain the messaging feature and the expectations around it. Response time, what types of messages are appropriate for the platform, and when to switch to email or a phone call for more complex conversations.

"You can send me direct messages through ClassDojo for quick questions and updates. I respond within 24 hours on school days. For longer conversations about your child's progress or any concerns that deserve more attention, please email me at [email] to schedule a time to talk."

A note on behavior points

If your classroom uses the ClassDojo behavior points system, address it specifically. Many families have questions or concerns about behavior point tracking and appreciate a direct explanation before they encounter it.

"ClassDojo lets me give students quick feedback on their behavior during the school day. You may see positive points for things like 'on task' or 'teamwork.' Points are a classroom tool for giving students real-time feedback, not a detailed behavior report. If you ever want to talk about how your child is doing behaviorally, I am always happy to have that conversation directly."

Privacy and photos

Address privacy directly, especially for photos. Some families prefer that their child not appear in photos shared to the class story, even though the story is only visible to enrolled families. Give families a clear opt-out process: "If you prefer that photos of your child not be included in class story posts, please let me know and I will respect that preference."