What type of communication tool would I consider using with parents and students?

Other than email, Instant Messaging or Facebook, I would love to use blogging and Skype. I figure blogging can be a great way to give an overview of the lessons taught in class daily and a list of assignments or reminders. Skype can be a great form of communication with parents and students. We can still have a face to face conference and real time conversation. Of course, not all parents/students will have access to a computer or internet, but it will help those who do have the resources.