LA PLATA, Md. —Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is moving to simplify how families receive school information, launching a new all-in-one communication platform this summer to replace a mix of existing systems.
Starting July 1, 2026, the school system will launch a new all-in-one communication platform designed to make it faster and easier to receive school updates, alerts and messages.
The district is transitioning to Apptegy, replacing several current systems with a single, streamlined tool.
Officials emphasized early in the rollout that the new platform is focused strictly on communication and will not replace existing academic systems already in use.
“It is a communication tool. It is not replacing a learning management system such as Canvas, and it is not replacing a gradebook such as Synergy,” Chief of Communications Shelly Mackey said.
One System, Less Confusion
Right now, families often rely on multiple apps and platforms to keep up with school information — something officials say has become confusing and inefficient.
The update includes improvements to the district’s website, mobile app and messaging systems, bringing all school communication into one place.
The goal is simple: make communication easier and more consistent across the entire school system.
Real-Time Alerts
One of the biggest improvements is the addition of push notifications — something the current system does not offer.
That means families will soon receive instant alerts for school closures, delays, emergencies and important updates directly to their phones.
Officials said the change is aimed at improving how quickly families receive critical updates, especially during weather events.
“If we post an inclement weather announcement on our website… nobody sees it unless we’re going to the app,” Mackey said.
Built For How Families Actually Use Technology
The new platform is designed with mobile users in mind, reflecting how most people access information today.
Families will be able to:
- Get alerts instantly
- Access school updates on their phones
- View calendars and announcements more easily
- Communicate directly with teachers
The system also includes built-in translation features, helping make communication more accessible for all families.
Another key upgrade is a two-way messaging feature that allows parents and teachers to communicate directly through the platform.
This feature works on both mobile devices and computers, giving families more flexibility in how they stay connected.
Community Feedback Still Being Collected
As part of the rollout, CCPS is also asking parents and staff to share feedback through a survey released earlier this month.
The survey focuses on how families currently receive school information and what improvements they would like to see. Take the survey at ccboe.com/about/public-info-media/details/~board/press-releases.
The survey is open through April 3, with feedback expected to help guide final adjustments.
Watch The Full Presentation
Watch the full Board of Education presentation below to learn more about the upcoming changes. The update was shared during a March 23, 2026, Charles County Board of Education work session.
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