ĢTV SMS Communication Policy
Purpose
The ĢTV Council of Teachers of English (ĢTV) uses SMS text messaging for two purposes only: (1) sending account security and identity verification codes (multi-factor authentication / one-time passcodes) to individuals during account sign-up, sign-in, or verification; and (2) one-to-one, person-to-person conversations between individual ĢTV staff and the people they work with directly, such as members, event registrants, and partners. SMS is not used for marketing, promotions, or bulk/broadcast messaging. Message frequency varies. If ĢTV’s use of SMS expands to include external or marketing purposes in the future, this policy will be updated accordingly. This policy defines how SMS messaging is managed to ensure compliance with Microsoft’s messaging requirements, 10DLC regulations, and applicable industry guidelines.
Consent & Opt-In
- ĢTV sends SMS only to individuals who have a relationship with ĢTV and have provided their mobile number, for example by enabling multi-factor authentication or providing it during account sign-up or sign-in, or by giving it to an ĢTV staff member or on an ĢTV form.
- By providing a mobile number, the individual consents to receive verification codes and/or one-to-one messages from ĢTV.
- Messages are used only for verification and legitimate one-to-one business communications, never for marketing.
- Standard carrier “Msg & data rates may apply.”
- Recipients may opt out of receiving SMS at any time by replying “STOP.”
Message Content Standards
- Messages will clearly identify ĢTV as the sender.
- Messages will not include prohibited content such as hate speech, sexual content, alcohol, firearms, or tobacco.
- Public URL shorteners (e.g., bit.ly) will not be used.
- Example message: “ĢTV IT: Your password has been reset. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for support, STOP to opt out.”
Automated Responses
- START: Confirms enrollment and replies with the brand name and disclosures — for example, “ĢTV: You are now subscribed to ĢTV text messages. Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to opt out.”
- STOP: Confirms opt-out and halts messages — for example, “ĢTV: You have been unsubscribed and will receive no further messages. Reply START to resume. Msg & data rates may apply.”
- HELP: Replies with ĢTV customer support contact information — for example, “ĢTV: For help, contact customerservice@ncte.org or call 877-369-6283. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out.”
Privacy & Data Handling
- SMS data will only be used for ĢTV business purposes.
- Mobile information will not be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.
- Text messaging originator opt-in data and consent will not be shared with any third parties.
- Data handling complies with ĢTV’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
- Support contact: customerservice@ncte.org (Subject: SMS policy)
Quiet Hours
SMS messages will only be sent between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM local time, unless urgent.
Compliance & Oversight
- SMS campaign registration is maintained in Microsoft Teams Admin Center.
- Documentation of opt-in, sample messages, and compliance practices is maintained by ĢTV IT.
- Periodic reviews will be conducted to ensure compliance with Microsoft Teams SMS policies, 10DLC registration requirements, and TCPA/CTIA guidelines.