Buzz, buzz. Your phone vibrates in your pocket, demanding your immediate attention. You pull it out, expecting to see a text from your best friend or mother—but no, instead it is your English teacher, reminding you about the test you have tomorrow.

This is now a common occurrence for many students, as teachers have begun to utilize the app Remind. Formerly known as Remind 101, before being changed to a simpler name, this application allows teachers in the United States and Canada to send free text messages to their students.

“Since we live in a digital age, why not utilize the tools that the students use the most—their cell phones,” Advanced Placement (AP) statistics and geometry teacher Ashleyanne Thornhill said. “I truly believe that the Remind app has aided in keeping my students accountable and provides another medium of communication outside of the classroom that is safe and professional.”

Teachers first have to set up their “Remind class” online, before receiving their class code. This code, which is a short phone number, can then be given to students. The students text the number with a certain word or phrase that will then add them to the class, enabling them to receive updates from the teacher that holds the code.

“I think Remind helps a lot with remembering assignments and things to bring to class the next day,” senior George Sheko said. “I wish more teachers would use it so I could have everything I need to remember all in one place.”

Whether it is for an academic class or a club, Remind has aided teachers in transferring material and updates in a timely manner.

“I send out pictures of my homework keys, study guides, times that I am offering tutorials, and reminders of what is due the following day in the class,” Thornhill said. “Many of my students say that the homework keys where I show my work really helps when they are studying at home, because I am not there to walk them through the steps.”

The app has proven to be successful among students, with many viewing it as a more suitable way to communicate with their teachers.

“I like receiving texts more than, say, emails because it is more convenient,” senior Paayal Jagada said. “I always have my phone on me, whereas I’m not constantly checking my email.”

As technology advances and school continues to carry on, it is natural for the two to combine. Remind has created a link between the two, making it a positive aid for teachers and students alike.

“This app has improved communication with my students outside of the classroom tremendously,” Thornhill said. “I realize that my students have lives outside of my class, but even a brief reminder to complete their homework or study for an exam after school hours has helped in keeping my students on top of their workload.”