TEXTING POLICY

College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University Student Applications Software Texting Policy – Administrative Use

Purpose

This policy governs the use of text messaging through student applications software utilized by the College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John’s University (SJU) personnel. It ensures communication is appropriate, respectful, and compliant with institutional and federal regulations.

1. Authorized Users

Only authorized administrative users of the various student applications platforms at CSB+SJU may use the texting feature. These users include academic advisors, student support staff, and other personnel designated by the institution.

All users must be trained in:

• Professional communication standards
• FERPA and student privacy protocols
• Student applications software usage best practices

2. Permitted Content

Text messaging is limited to official academic and support-related communication, such as:

• Appointment reminders or confirmations
• Attendance outreach or concerns
• Notifications about key deadlines or student engagement

Messages must be professional, brief, and relevant to a student’s success or required action.

3. Hours of Use

The texting feature is available 24/7, but staff are expected to follow best practices regarding appropriate hours (e.g., between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. whenever possible).

Messages outside of standard hours should be reserved for time-sensitive concerns.

4. Student Consent & Opt-Out

• Students are opted in by default to receive text messages when they enroll at CSB+SJU.
• Students can opt out at any time by replying “STOP” to any message or by managing their communication preferences through the various applications software (if available).
• Students who opt out will continue to receive communications via email or other official college/university channels.

5. Compliance and Privacy

All communication must comply with:

• FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
• TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act)
• Institutional privacy and technology use policies

Sensitive information (e.g., grades, personal data) must not be sent via text.

6. Monitoring and Accountability

All text messages sent are logged and subject to review. Misuse of the texting function may lead to:

• Revocation of access
• Corrective or disciplinary action, per CSB+SJU staff policies

7. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Business Office and the Information Technology departments to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

STUDENT-FACING POLICY INFORMATION

Texting Policy for CSB+SJU Students (via various Student Applications Software)

At the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, we use text messaging through our applications software platforms to help keep you informed and supported throughout your academic journey.

Here is what you need to know:

What Kind of Messages Will I Receive?

We will only text you about things that matter to your success, like:

• Reminders about upcoming appointments
• Attendance concerns
• Important updates or deadlines

We won’t spam you or send anything unrelated to your student experience.

Who Will Be Texting Me?

Only trained staff at CSB+SJU, like your academic advisor, student support staff, admission representative, etc.

When Might I Get a Text?

Texting is available 24/7, but we try to send messages during normal hours (like 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.). Urgent messages may come outside those times if needed.

Can I Opt Out?

Yes. You are automatically enrolled in text messages when you start at CSB+SJU, but you can opt out anytime by:

• Replying “STOP” to a text message
• Or updating your preferences in various applications platforms.

Keep in mind: If you opt out, you will still get important info by email or other ways.

Is My Information Safe?

Yes. Your privacy matters. We follow federal laws (like FERPA) to make sure your personal info is protected. We will never send sensitive information like grades or financial info over text.

Questions?
Contact the CSB+SJU IT Services Help Desk at support.csbsju.edu or (320) 363-2228 for more information or help managing your communication preferences.

Opt-Out Instructions:

You are receiving this message from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University. Message & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out at any time.