Options for creating custom distribution lists in Google

There are a couple of different ways that you can create distribution lists and custom contact groups through our Google accounts.

Option #1:  Google CLASSROOM  
Google Classroom is a new application that is designed for teachers to connect with students, but it also allows for members of any class, club, or peer group to connect with one another.

Here is a short video with an overview of Classroom:

And here is the most up-to-date resources for Classroom directly from Google:  https://support.google.com/edu/classroom/?hl=en#topic=6020277

Things to consider: 

• Classroom was designed specifically with teachers and students in mind, so it is conducive to our needs in school. 
• Beyond being a tool for contacting groups of people, Classroom is a great resource for backchanneling, assigning and collecting assignments, giving feedback to students, and more. 
• It is possible to email and send out other resources to all or selected members of a Google Class. 
• Multiple "teachers" can be added to a class so that the distribution list is accessible by more than just the creator of the class. 
• We highly recommend trying Classroom with your students. 

Option #2: Contact groups in GMAIL
A popular option for creating a distribution list is through Gmail. Here is the most up-to-date tutorial from Google about creating a contact group:  https://support.google.com/mail/answer/30970?hl=en

Also, here is a tutorial created by another GAFE school with step by step instructions for setting up a custom group:

Things to consider:

• The owner of the account is the only person with access to the group when it is created as a Gmail contact group. 
• We each need to set up our own groups and distribution lists when using contacts in Gmail. 

For further assistance with any of the applications mentioned above, please reach out to the resource specialist working with your school.