ClassTag

ClassTag is an incredibly fascinating, highly disruptive platform that aggressively tackled a unique problem: Teachers spend hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets to buy classroom supplies (like glue sticks and markers). ClassTag built a free communication app that actually pays the teacher in physical classroom supplies just for using it. Its signature feature is its "Ad-Supported Reward Economy." The app is completely free for the teacher and the parents. However, the newsfeed contains highly curated, family-friendly advertisements (like Clorox or Scholastic). Every time a parent reads a message or RSVPs to an event, the teacher earns "ClassTag Coins." The teacher can then literally cash those coins in to order free Clorox wipes, crayons, or Amazon gift cards directly to their classroom. Because its entire business model relies on engagement, it is incredibly persistent at reaching parents. If a teacher sends a message, ClassTag sends it via the mobile app. If the parent doesn't read it, ClassTag automatically sends it via SMS. If they don't read the SMS, ClassTag automatically routes it to their email, guaranteeing the highest possible read rate for critical announcements.