DCPS: School Choice Launches Live Chat Feature To Support Families

From the Duval County Public Schools:

February 2, 2021

With the Feb. 28 application deadline just a few weeks away, School Choice staff is unveiling new ways families can connect with them and get their questions answered.

One of those ways is live chatting using the “My Chat” feature in “School Match 2021.”

Brand new this year, the “My Chat” features gives parents the opportunity to live chat with a school choice specialist Monday – Saturday, 9 AM – 1 PM, now through Saturday, Feb. 27.

“This new line of communication is essential in helping ensure we can guide our families through a smooth school choice application process,” said School Choice Director, Sharwonda Peek. “The School Match “My Chat” feature is a perfect way to get answers quickly and avoid wait times you may experience with other communication options.”

Here’s how to start chatting:

1. Go to School Match 2021
2. Log into or create a “My Show Planner” account
3. After a few minutes, a “My Chat” icon will appear next to the account holder’s name. Click on it.
4. Click the “Browse Contacts” tab.
5. Click the “Available Now” tab and select a “Office of School Choice” team member.

Peek says “My Chat” is ideal for those who may have quick school choice questions and need quick responses. For more involved questions, Peek encourages parents to make an appointment to speak with a specialist either virtually or in-person. Appointments can be made online here.

“We are here for our parents and want to make sure that as we get closer and closer to Sunday, Feb. 28, they know they have multiple resources to get support,” said Peek.

At a Glance: How to contact School Choice

Live Chat via “School Match 2020 My Chat”Go to School Match 2021Log into or create a “My Show Planner” accountAfter a few minutes, a “My Chat” icon will appear next to the account holder’s name. Click on it.Click the “Browse Contacts” tab.Click the “Available Now” tab. Make an appointment for in-person or virtual meetinghttps://www.ventusappointment.com/Booking/Booking/Index/k372bw25ps Email (Response time is 24-48 hours)School_choice@duvalschools.org Attend a live virtual parent information sessionFeb.4 https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/518075389 Feb. 18 https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/524994797 Feb.25 https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/613443901

This press release was produced by the Duval County Public Schools. The views expressed are the author's own.