6 Ways to Contact Parents Without Revealing Your Phone Number

In this new world of distance learning, many of us are having to contact parents via remote measures. Whether you’re doing a parent-teacher conference remote, or needing to discuss a student’s latest project, you’ll most likely be making calls and messaging them this year. But how do you contact parents without revealing your personal phone number? We rounded up the best options from our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group and are sharing them here!

1. Use Google Voice

This option was the most overwhelming choice for making phone calls. If you sign up for a free Google Voice account you choose a new phone number that’s not your personal one. The new number (which can even be set up in a different area code) then forwards to your existing number for calls. You can even get a recording and transcription once you’re done! Learn how to set up Google on your smartphone here. 

2. Dial *67

This is an easy hack you can use to make your phone number private. Dial *67 and then enter the number you wish to call. Instead of showing your phone number, the words “Private,” “Anonymous,” or some other indicator will appear on your parent’s phone. Just make sure to tell them ahead of time so they know to pick up!

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3. Use Zoom Without Video

Use Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or any other online video app. Most allow you to turn video off, so they can be used for audio calls. Or leave the video on for a personal touch or to share your screen as needed.

4. Implement Parent Communication Apps

Apps like ClassDojo, Remind, and Bloomz allow you to set up a class and parents can join for you to instantly share photos, videos, and announcements. If messaging parents is your preferred method of communication, but you don’t want to text from your phone, these applications work well.

5. Try the Hushed App

Hushed is another way to get a private phone number that’s linked to your personal one. It’s not as common, but several teachers recommended it.

6. Use a Second Phone

If you really want to keep your personal and work life private, you could opt for a second phone with its own number and plan. This way you know any incoming texts and calls are specific to your students.

Do you have any ways to contact parents without revealing your personal phone number? Share in the comments below! 

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