SMS GuidelinesText Messaging (SMS) and Privacy

Midland College uses SMS (Short Message Service) as part of its official communications strategy with students, parents, guardians, alumni, and other stakeholders. These communications are designed to support the academic mission, institutional operations, and community engagement while protecting individual privacy.

Collection & Use of Information

The mobile phone number provided to Midland College may be used for educational, transactional or institutional messages such as academic alerts, registration and advising reminders, and informational updates from approved college departments.

Data Protection & PII Handling

• • SMS communications must not include sensitive Personally Identifiable Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers or health information.
  • If sensitive information must be conveyed, recipients will be directed to secure portals or other FERPA- or HIPAA-compliant channels.

Opt-In / Opt-Out

• • Prospective students may opt in to receive SMS messages by completing an information request form, creating an account, or updating communication preferences. Consent to receive SMS messages is optional and not a condition of applying, enrolling, or participating in the admissions process. Message frequency may vary.
  • Commercial or informational messages require explicit opt-in consent and must include clear instructions for opting out: Text STOP to stop receiving text messages. Text HELP for help.
  • All opt-out requests for commercial or informational SMS must be honored promptly.

Emergency Alerts

Emergency notifications, such as severe weather warnings or campus safety alerts, are not governed by this guidance. They are managed exclusively through Chap Alert, Midland College’s official emergency communication system.

Carrier & Message Disclosures

• • Wireless carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.
  • Message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from Midland College and to Midland College from you.
  • Message frequency will vary.
  • For questions about your text or data plan, contact your wireless provider.

Information Sharing & Privacy Assurance

• • Midland College will not share, sell, or rent mobile information with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.
  • Information sharing is permitted only with subcontractors who provide support services (such as message delivery, technical support, or customer service), and solely for the purpose of operating the SMS program.
  • All other use case categories exclude SMS opt-in data and consent information; this data will not be disclosed to any third party under any circumstances except as required by law.

Legal Compliance & Privacy Assurance

• • All SMS communications must comply with applicable federal laws, including the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as well as Midland College's operating policies.
  • Midland College does not sell, rent, or otherwise disclose SMS subscriber information to third parties except as required by law.