Boosting Parent Participation with SDC: Strategies for Success

calendar 07.24.2024 calendar Matt Morelli
In today’s tech-savvy K-12 world, protecting school devices with a solid insurance program is a no-brainer. School Device Coverage (SDC), underwritten by the highly-rated CNA (AM Best A+), is a fantastic choice, especially for a Parent Buy program. However, its success really boils down to one thing: getting parents on board. A May 2023 survey of nearly 20,000 parents across the US gives us the scoop on how to boost participation, and it all starts with smart communication.
Image: Father and son using 1:1 device at home.
The Communication Game
Our survey results showed where parents heard about School Device Coverage:
These numbers tell us one thing: we need to mix up our communication channels to get through to parents effectively.
The Rule of Seven
Marketing gurus swear by the "Rule of Seven," which means a message needs to hit someone at least seven times before it sticks. In our crazy, distraction-filled world, this probably means more like ten times. So, hitting parents with info from multiple angles is key.
Rallying the Troops
To get parents interested, we need help from the whole district squad: tech directors, site techs, librarians, teachers—you name it. These folks interact with parents a lot and can give them the lowdown on the insurance program, making it more likely they’ll sign up.
The Personal Touch
While bombarding parents with messages is essential, nothing beats the personal touch. When district staff know their stuff and actively promote the program, participation skyrockets. This not only saves the district money but also makes parents feel secure about insuring their kids' devices.
Winning Strategies for Higher Parent Participation
  1. Mix Up Your Messaging: Use flyers, emails, campus signs, social media, and in-person events like Back to School Night to make sure parents see the message from every angle.
  2. Empower the Staff: Train techs, librarians, and teachers, so they can explain the program’s benefits to parents. Their direct contact with parents can make a big difference.
  3. Follow the Rule of Seven: Ensure parents hear about the program at least seven times through various channels. This consistent exposure helps the info stick.
  4. Share Success Stories: Use testimonials from other parents who’ve benefited from the program. Real-life examples make the program's value clear and relatable.
  5. Boost Social Media Presence: Even though only 2% of parents heard about the program through social media, it’s a powerful tool for reaching a wide audience. Regular posts and engaging content can increase visibility and interest.
Do you have damaged devices lying around? Probably. You can create skits with students or staff for Instagram Reels, and TikTok.
Wrapping Up
Getting parents on board with School Device Coverage takes a well-rounded approach: smart communication, engaging the whole district team, and sticking to the Rule of Seven. By mixing up your messages and adding a personal touch, you can boost participation rates, protect your district’s budget, and keep student devices safe.
Let School Device Coverage take the financial weight off your shoulders—get your team involved and see the results!