PELLISSIPPI STATE
SMS SERVICE ACTIVE
Student SMS Notification Program

Stay informed.
Instantly.

PAWS Alert delivers real-time SMS notifications about class changes, campus emergencies, and important updates directly to your phone — no app required.

Text JOIN [CODE] to
+1 (866) 384-7549
Standard msg & data rates may apply
Example: Text JOIN CS101 to enroll in CS101 alerts
How to Opt In
STEP 01 📱
Send a JOIN Text
Open your SMS app and text JOIN [SECTION CODE] to +1 (866) 384-7549. Your instructor will provide the section code.
STEP 02 ✅
Receive Confirmation
You'll get an instant confirmation text verifying your enrollment. You are now opted in and will receive alerts for that section.
STEP 03 🔔
Get Alerts
Receive SMS notifications from your instructor or campus administration. Reply STOP at any time to unsubscribe.
Sample Opt-In Conversation
💬 SMS Conversation Example +1 (866) 384-7549
Student's phone · Text message thread
Student sends
JOIN CS101
PAWS Alert replies
Welcome to PAWS Alert for CS101 at Pellissippi State Community College! You'll receive class updates and important notifications from your instructor. Reply STOP to unsubscribe at any time. Msg & data rates may apply.
Example alert from instructor
[CAMPUS] CS101: Class is cancelled today due to instructor illness. Check your email for assignment details.
To opt out, student sends
STOP
PAWS Alert confirms opt-out
You have been unsubscribed from PAWS Alert. You will no longer receive messages from this number. Reply JOIN [CODE] to re-enroll at any time.
SMS Keywords
⌨️Supported CommandsText these to +1 (866) 384-7549
KeywordActionResponse
JOIN [CODE]Enroll in a section's alertsConfirmation message sent
STOPUnsubscribe from all alertsOpt-out confirmed, no further messages
HELPGet program informationInstructions and contact info sent
QUIT / CANCEL / UNSUBSCRIBEUnsubscribe (alternate keywords)Opt-out confirmed, no further messages
Types of Messages You May Receive
[CAMPUS] NORMAL
Routine Notifications
Class cancellations, room changes, schedule updates, reminders.
[CAMPUS] CS101: Class moved to Room 204 today.
[URGENT]
Urgent Updates
Time-sensitive information requiring prompt attention.
[URGENT] Parking lot B is closed. Use alternate entrance.
[EMERGENCY]
Emergency Alerts
Campus safety emergencies. Follow all instructions immediately.
[EMERGENCY] Campus closed. Evacuate via north exits now.

Message Frequency: Message frequency varies based on your instructor and campus events. Routine sections typically send 0–5 messages per month. Emergency alerts are sent only when necessary. You will never receive promotional or marketing messages.

Consent & Opt-In Statement

By texting JOIN [SECTION CODE] to +1 (866) 384-7549, you expressly consent to receive recurring automated SMS text messages from PAWS Alert, operated by Pellissippi State Community College, related to your enrolled section(s).

Consent is not a condition of enrollment or any purchase. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. You may opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message.

For assistance, reply HELP or contact pawsalert@pstcc.edu.

Privacy & Data Handling
🔒How We Handle Your Data
📋
What We Collect
Your phone number, section code, enrollment timestamp, and your consent record (the inbound JOIN message).
🚫
What We Never Do
We never sell, share, or transfer your phone number to third parties. We never send promotional or marketing messages.
🗄️
Data Storage
Data is stored in an encrypted PostgreSQL database. Opt-in records are retained for compliance. Opt-out requests are processed immediately.
✏️
Your Rights
You may opt out at any time by replying STOP. To request deletion of your data, contact us at the email below.

SMS messaging is powered by Twilio. Your phone number is not shared with Twilio for marketing purposes. For Twilio's privacy policy, visit twilio.com/legal/privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get my section code?
Your instructor will provide the section code on your syllabus or verbally during the first class. It typically looks like CS101, MATH201, etc.
Can I enroll in multiple sections?
Yes. Send a separate JOIN message for each section code. Example: JOIN CS101 then JOIN MATH201.
Will I be charged for these messages?
PAWS Alert is free from Pellissippi State. Standard message and data rates from your mobile carrier may apply.
How do I unsubscribe?
Reply STOP to any message. You will immediately stop receiving alerts. Reply JOIN [CODE] to re-enroll at any time.
Who do I contact for help?
Reply HELP to any message, or email pawsalert@pstcc.edu.