Blackboard Connect, also called Connect Ed, is a robotic call system operated by Northwestern Lehigh School District.

All families of students were signed up automatically as part of Connect Ed and receive messages, such as school closings due to snow.

The district is expanding the program to provide a message system for all community residents.

As of the Feb. 19 school board meeting, 31 residents have signed up. Messages can be delivered via phone, email or text message with individuals able to request their preferred method.

Offered will be a different set of messages instead of those specific to the schools, such as the invitation senior citizens received to a Medicare session or continuing education workshops. Good news about students will also be sent.

The messages can take the form of newsletters and provide budget and tax information.

It is a way to reach out to residents, Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Holman said.

During Hurricane Sandy, the school's messages provided information such as the location of shelters.

At that time, community members were not yet connected to the system. Those who were connected because they had children who were students were asked to relay the information to neighbors.

"We won't be bugging people at 4 a.m. with a school delay or closing," Holman said.

To sign up, go to https://nwlehighsdcommunity.bbcportal.com/ and click on "Sign me up!"