This year I have started using http://www.remind101.com to help students and parents stay on top of assignment deadlines.  This is also a great way to communicate other class information, such as reminders about activities, changes in schedules, late starts, and other school-related information.  This is a texting service that students (and parents) choose to sign up for and the teacher sends out messages via the web.  One message and everyone on the list is informed!  It's completely free and no limit on the number of texts.  The students don't see your personal number and you don't see theirs.  Messages can also be scheduled to send at a later day or time.   Check out this link for more information.