If you want the best digital pens for teachers then you're in the right place. Specifically, this guide aims to lay out the smart pens, able to record writing digitally, that will serve teachers best in the classroom and beyond.

Digital pens are a great way to merge the physical way of taking notes with the digital advantages of saving. That means you can write what you need, but won't only have it on that sheet of paper. Instead, these pens will allow you to have a digital copy, ideal as a backup, but also as an easy way to share those notes.

Not all pens are created equal though, so you'll need to think about which features you require and just how much you want to spend. Some models will record what you write on any paper, others require specific paper, books, or even a tablet device. Some come with buttons to give you shortcut controls, while some even let you record voice notes to go with your written notes. 

Many digital pens will now transcribe your handwriting into digital text, a very helpful tool indeed. But with the accuracy and quality varying across brands it pays to use this guide to find the best model to suit your needs.

Best digital pens for teachers

The Livescribe company leads the way in digital pens and this model, the Symphony, offers some of the best from years of development that has managed to become more affordable than ever. Despite this not being the top-end model from the company, you really do get a lot for your money. That includes the ability to write using the ergonomic design so it sits comfortably and naturally in the hand. 

Thanks to a decent 10-hour battery life and 90-day standby time, conversion of writing to text live on a connected smartphone, and super speedy charging via USB, this is a really easy model to use. It does require special paper to work, so you'll want to keep that ongoing cost in your considerations when buying. 

This is a very well made pen that uses premium materials and looks compact enough to go anywhere with you without actually looking like a digital pen.

For all-out comfort, the Neo Smartpen N2 is one of the best options out there right now. This is weighted perfectly so that you can write comfortably as if using a standard pen, only this is packing in plenty of smart features too. This does require a special notebook and writing pads to function but the results are worth that.

One button press and this is on and recording, it charges via micro-USB for ease, and will go for a full five hours before you need to charge it back to full. Setup is very straightforward and should only take you around 30 seconds to be up and running from new. Thanks to premium metallic materials, this feels like a strong option that's made to last.

For those that want to capture drawing as well as writing, this is a fantastic option as it's built to task. You do require a pen and specific pad combo for this to work, however, the results are worth the extra kit. Unlike some other options, this pad allows you to place any paper on that pad and it will still detect your doodles for digital conversion -- ideal for artists.

Not only is this a very comfortable pen to use but it's also one of the most accurate in terms of detection and digital reproduction. The pen is inert so you only need to charge the pad, which goes for a good eight hours before needing a recharge via micro-USB. This pairs with a smartphone, after a simple one minute setup, and allows you to save and share your art with ease. View and edit your work in the app for the perfect digital finish.

As the name suggests, the Livescribe Echo is all about the audio to go with your digital writing. As such, this is a little bulkier than some, with its onboard storage for audio recordings, yet it is still comfortable enough to write with pretty naturally. Usefully, this will link your audio recording to the section you're writing, making it perfect for class notes to which you need to add more than what you've written alone.

Battery life is decent, charging is easy, and setup is straightforward. Being Livescribe, you have lots of features in the app including the ability to convert your handwriting into digital text, which makes back-up and sharing very simple.

This is a bulkier model than many, so keep that in mind if comfort is your priority. But if audio recording is a must, then this is one of the best options out there.

Being Moleskin, the quality of this setup is premium, but it does mean you need to invest a bit more upfront and ongoing. This comes with the Pen+ and Ncoded Paper Tablet, which is a fancy notebook that helps with detection and even includes icons that work as buttons for digital controls. 

The pen is pretty lightweight and comfortable to use, with a triangular design that sits well in the hand. The pad is similarly premium with a superb finish to the paper, and the combination of those two makes for some very accurate recording. The same applies to transcription in which the app converts your handwriting to text with ease.

This even allows you to record audio, making it a great option for lectures or class in which extra notes, in a hurry, are a real option. The fact it all appears live on the connected smartphone app is just a really nice feature that helps to justify the more-than-most price.

It’s back-to-school time again!

Whether you’re excited about the new school year or need some inspiration, a new teacher or a seasoned pro, or teaching in a classroom or online—you and your students will benefit from education sites and apps that deliver the all-important student engagement while supporting learning goals in reading, writing, math, and more.

The following sites and apps are some of the best all-around edtech teaching tools. Many are fully free, while others offer free basic accounts or generous free trials. All are worth checking out!

20 Sites/Apps Every Teacher Should Try for Back to School

FREE

NYT Learning Network Writing Prompts
A collection of 171 writing prompts from The New York Times 2025-26 school year Student Opinion questions. Each question/prompt is accompanied by an excerpt from a relevant Times article, interactive, or video as well as selected student responses. Prompts are highly varied, ranging from “What Story From Your Life Can You Tell in 100 Words?” to “What Author Would You Most Like to Meet?” All articles within the NYT Learning Network, as well as any links, are free, with no account required.

Common Sense Media AI Basics for K–12 Teachers
From the respected nonprofit Common Sense Media, this one-hour course covers artificial intelligence basics, including how it works, how it might affect teaching and learning, and best practices for using it in the classroom ethically and responsibly. Free account required.

Common Sense Media Digital Literacy & Well-Being Curriculum
A fully free K-8 curriculum that includes dozens of lessons covering topics such as teaching kindness, encouraging digital safety, managing device distractions, dealing with cyberbullying, and much more. Each lesson includes objectives, vocabulary, slides, full lesson plan, and professional development, as well as detailed educator guides.

Rumie
A fully free site, Rumie features short learning experiences, aka “Bytes,” that foster meaningful learning in just 10 minutes. Bytes have been developed through collaboration between Rumie and volunteer professionals. Great for civics, creative arts, critical thinking, career skills, PBL, social-emotional learning, and many other classes.

Photomath
A top-rated free app (with some premium features) for smartphone and tablet, Photomath helps users understand and solve math problems through annotated equations, method variation, and concise explanations of math terms. Users simply scan their math problems into the app to start learning. iOS Android

Microsoft AI Reading Coach
The AI-powered Reading Coach helps students practice reading aloud through generated stories, targeted word coaching and assessments. It’s free to anyone with a Microsoft or Xbox account: simply login and start practicing with an existing reading passage, AI-generated story or custom uploaded content. Reading Coach will ask permission to access the user’s microphone in order to provide feedback on the speaker’s pronunciation. Digital badges provide encouragement. and help learners mark their progress.

Better Explained
“Learning isn’t about memorizing facts to pass a test.” If you agree with this statement, you will find a lot to like in this free math/computer science concept website, built by former Microsoft programmer Kalid Azad. Articles such as “Developing Your Intuition For Math” and “How To Learn Trigonometry Intuitively” offer a learning path that goes beyond exam prep, and ultimately may lead toward a deeper understanding. Colorized math topics and cheat sheets (don’t worry, there’s no cheating) use colors and plain English to help readers understand tricky ideas. Excellent resource for teachers and students in grades 9-12 and beyond.

Ducksters
This user-friendly platform offers a diverse selection of interactive educational games, ideal for students or anyone seeking both entertainment and knowledge enrichment. Explore an array of captivating digital games encompassing subjects including mathematics, language, world geography, brain-teasers, and timeless classics such as chess, checkers, backgammon, and mahjong. Then dive deeper into the educational experience, where you'll find an extensive compilation of engaging lessons supplemented with visuals, covering topics such as history, biographies, geography, and science. Assess your understanding through interactive quizzes and explore related game links. No registration necessary to play or learn.

The New York Times: Exploring the Creative Process With ‘Live Art’
An in-depth examination of the creative process through videos featuring various artists creating art and narrating their work flow. The article includes specific ideas and prompts that teachers can use to customize the lesson for their classes. All links and videos within, as well as the article itself, are freely accessible without an account.

Google Fact Check Tools
The internet alone was bad enough for truth. Now with free AI tools proliferating, how can you believe anything? With Fact Check Explorer, students and teachers can search for fact checks from various sources with a single word or phrase. Try a quote from a politician or a Twitter or Facebook meme. A great resource for students doing research or studying journalism.

NewseumEd
An organization dedicated to supporting civic education, NewseumEd provides thousands of free lesson plans, digital artifacts, virtual classes, professional development, and more. Search by topic, tool type, grade, time of keyword. For full access to all resources, create a free account.

Google Arts and Culture
An incredibly rich source of web- or app-based (Android iOS) interactive learning. Head over to Google Arts and Culture and simply start scrolling through topics such as “The Gardener” by Vincent Van Gogh, 10 of the World's Zaniest Buildings, Cultural Crosswords, Virtual Museum Collections, and so much more. Ideal for art, social studies, history, design, PBL, even STEM—but every classroom or online learning environment will benefit. Free.

FREEMIUM

Duolingo
Duolingo is an AI-powered language learning platform that uses adaptive practice and gamification to teach new languages effectively. It’s easy for students and teachers to sign up for free accounts by answering a few questions designed to assess their goals and abilities. The platform is fun and engaging, with an adorable birdlike mascot and frequent positive reinforcement. Using text, images, and voices, Duolingo teaches meaning as well as pronunciation. The free version includes nearly all features, but also has ads, while Duolingo Plus ($6.99/month) is ad-free and offers unlimited hearts, a progress tracker, streak repair, practice mistakes, mastery quizzes, and unlimited test outs. A great supplement to standard language curricula.

Grammarly
A top spelling and grammar checker that offers a highly useful free account option in addition to paid plans. Grammarly is available as a download, online tool, or browser extension. Recent updates include the ability to create and vet citations as well as a generative AI writing assistant. A useful tool for both teachers and students.

Otter.AI
Otter.ai is a simple-to-use yet powerful transcription/speech-to-text app that creates a cloud-based transcript synced to its recording. The transcript is searchable, editable, and ultimately, a great time-saver for educators. Top uses for teachers and students include interviews, generating ideas for writing, improved accessibility, and summarizing meetings.

GooseChase Edu
The GooseChase online platform helps users design and a variety of scavenger hunts: indoor, outdoor, virtual, and group. The free basic teacher’s account allows one live game at a time in team mode. iOS Android

Desmos Classroom Featured Collections
Help your students reveal their inner mathematician with hundreds of free classroom math lessons and activities covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, functions, calculus, and more. Each lesson includes a step-by-step teacher’s guide and interactive digital slides.

Book Creator
Book Creator allows students and teachers to blend text, visuals, audio, and video to create digital books and portfolios, interactive stories, academic reports, graphic novels, and more. It’s an excellent way to boost literacy, independent learning, and collaboration. The free account permits one library and up to 40 books.

EDpuzzle
With this tool teachers can turn videos into lessons by adding questions, audio, or notes. Integrates with Google Classroom, Canvas, Schoology, Moodle, PowerSchool, Blackboard, and blackbaud. What’s more, Edpuzzle tracks student progress, helping teachers to differentiate instruction. Free basic plans offer access to more than 5 million editable videos, storage space for 20 videos, and student analytics.

BoomWriter
BoomWriter is a Google for Education Partner that allows students to collaborate in writing books. In addition to motivating students with an interactive platform and highly engaging online environment, BoomWriter is a top-notch vehicle to deliver individualized feedback and writing instruction. Excellent brief video tutorials demonstrate how to get started in your classroom. Free to sign up and use; to purchase the final hard-copy books costs $12.99 plus S&H per book.

ClassHook
Who doesn’t love movies? ClassHook leverages the power of “moving pictures” to help educators capture student attention across a wide range of subjects, including science, math, history, SEL, health, and others. Free basic accounts offer 20 clips and three live discussion rooms per month.

PREMIUM

Chronicle Cloud
A platform developed by teachers for teachers, Chronicle Cloud offers not only classroom note-taking capabilities, but also feedback, attendance, gradebook, formative assessment and other useful features. Chronicle Cloud differs from many other platforms in that all features are available to each of the three paid levels. The difference is in the amount of data storage provided - 500MB for $3.99/month, 1 GB for 5.99/month or 2GB for $9.99/month.

Khanmigo
From the remarkable free learning platform Khan Academy, Khanmigo offers AI-powered guidance and tutoring for students. Top features for teachers include lesson planning and differentiation, assessment creation, automatic essay feedback tool, videos to help teachers implement Khanmigo across the curriculum and assistance with IEP creation.

As schools get ready for the 2021-22 school year, Tech & Learning's new Awards of Excellence program, “The Best Tools for Back to School” is designed to help our readers find the most impressive products and solutions that will support their work in any learning environment. Eligible products included hardware, software, curriculum, and more, all divided by grade levels to make it easier for readers to find the solutions they need. 

“As we head into another uncertain year in education, technology will continue to be one of the key drivers for innovation,” says Tech & Learning Group Publisher Christine Weiser. “Our judges chose the winning products recognized here for their versatility, compatibility, value, and ability to help schools solve challenges and support continuous instruction. Congratulations to all of our winners.”  

Best Secondary Tools for Back to School 

Best Higher Ed Tools for Back to School

Best Primary Tools for Back to School

Accelerate Learning Inc. STEMscopes Science

STEMscopes Science is used in the classroom, distance learning, and hybrid learning settings. Each scope is built on the Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate learning cycle. The lesson elements in each scope are scaffolded to build upon previous elements’ three-dimensional learning. Teachers have access to intervention and acceleration lessons to differentiate for all learners. Students learn with content such as interactive simulations and hands-on activities. Using content connection videos, teachers can take students on virtual field trips to help them see real-life phenomena and deepen their understanding of the world. STEMscopes rubrics, assessments, and reports help teachers track student progress. "The game characteristics make this product good for young learners," Tech & Learning judges said.   

Accelerate Learning Inc. STEMscopes Math

 STEMscopes Math is used in the classroom, distance learning, and hybrid learning settings. With the 5E plus Intervention and Acceleration lesson model in STEMscopes Math, teachers reveal the wonder of math in the everyday world. Inquiry-based investigations, virtual manipulatives, and interactive games engage students as they build their understanding. Through demonstration, modeling, guided practice, independent practice, and assessment, students shift from conceptual understanding toward procedural accuracy, fluency, and understanding of math as a multifaceted process rather than “just an answer.” Benchmark assessments provide standards-based data and Quantile measures track student progress. The judges said, "STEMscopes Math combines digital, print, and kit components to provide teachers with everything they need to create meaningful math learning experiences for students," and called it a "huge benefit for alignment and planning." 

Acer Chromebook C733T

 The Acer C733T Chromebook is designed for use in education settings, offering durability, performance capabilities, portability, connectivity, and battery life. It is compliant with U.S. Military Standard MIL-STD 810G, has a spill-resistant keyboard, and offers a port selection that includes two USB Type-C 3.1 Gen-1 ports to allow charging, transfers, and a connection to a larger external display. Using the latest Intel Celeron processors, the C733T provides a long 12-hour battery life. Our judges said it has "fantastic battery life," and were impressed by the durability, spill-resistant keyboard, and touch screen. 

Age of Learning My Math Academy: Classroom Edition

Math Academy: Classroom Edition is an engaging game-based digital school solution that provides children with personalized math learning. My Math Academy guides pre-K through 2nd grade learners through a personalized learning adventure featuring challenges that help lead to mastery of early math skills. It offers a standards-based dashboard providing real-time insights, helping teachers differentiate instruction. Pilots in school districts nationwide demonstrated effectiveness, increased student engagement, and significant academic gains, along with a reduction in learner variability. "We especially liked the data analysis from the student results that help teachers to create learning groups in their classrooms more easily," the judges noted.  

AVer DL30 Auto Tracking Distance Learning Camera

The DL30 is a distance learning tool that allows teachers to engage with their students no matter where they are learning. Designed for the modern classroom, the DL30 enables teachers to move about the room while the camera automatically follows to engage both in-class and remote learners equally. Features include AI Auto Tracking, 12X Optical Zoom, PoE+ with USB, and HDMI connectivity. Our judges said, "This unit has a lot of features for a compact unit. We like the tracking features as well as network management features." 

AVer M5 Document Camera

The M5 distance learning document camera is a plug-n-play document camera for both the classroom and home use. With an 8MP camera putting out Ultra High Definition (UHD) resolution and frame rates up to 60FPS, content is clear, crisp, and smooth, while the 360° swivel camera head allows users to point it in any direction in the room. Judges called the device affordable and versatile, and liked the feature set, especially the light and ability to plug and play.  

BenQ RE Series Interactive Displays

BenQ RE Series interactive displays bring immersive engagement opportunities, affordability, and an antibacterial touchscreen to the classroom. A multilayer coating of the non-toxic, nano ionic silver agent certified to kill most germs accumulating on screen surfaces, helps teachers and students to work safely at the screen. The UHD displays come equipped with BenQ's EZ Write software, featuring cloud-based tools that allow users to share notes, ideas, and lessons from anywhere, and InstaShare, a license-free wireless collaboration and presentation system. "These are full-featured and multi-functional displays," said the judges, who especially liked the anti-microbial coating. 

Boxlight ProColor interactive display

The ProColor Interactive Display's touch-driven 4K UHD screen can function as an interactive whiteboard, Android PC, and collaboration tool for everyone in the class including those learning from home. Other key features include: 20 single-point touch or 10 dual-touch and gestures to work simultaneously with Touch 360° interactivity; MimioStudio™ classroom software, MimioConnect® blended learning platform, and OKTOPUS software with GameZones; access to more than 100 safe and vetted education apps that support National Common Core Standards; Unplug’d screen mirroring software that allows mobile devices or laptops to mirror content from the display, and vice versa; and the ability to control and report on the operation of the displays.  "These are very full-featured boards. We like the versatility and ability to connect with students from anywhere," the judges said. 

Boxlight MimioConnect

MimioConnect® Blended Learning Platform combines lesson building and instructional tools to help teachers create an active learning environment. It is a turnkey solution that can be integrated with existing class technology including iPads, Chromebooks, interactive projectors, and touch displays.Teachers and students can access MimioConnect from anywhere at any time, allowing in-class, remote, and hybrid learning. Key features include: traditional whiteboarding tools (pen, highlighter, eraser, etc.); classroom management tools; library of more than 10,000 premade lessons in multiple subjects; built-in video conferencing tool; single sign-on (SSO) with major LMS; ability to import content; import and share content from Google Cloud and Microsoft OneDrive; and polling tools. Our judges said, "The features and versatility make it a very good tool for teachers and students." 

Boxlight Robo 3D Printer & MyStemKits

Robo 3D printers brings 3D printing to classroom and school makerspaces with standards-aligned activities, lessons, and Design Challenges via MyStemKits.com. The MyStemKits content supports the development of 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and reasoning, communication, collaboration, and creative problem solving. Printers are fully enclosed with HEPA filters to ensure safety for all users, and each Robo 3D printer is Wi-Fi and hotspot enabled for Chromebooks and iPads, including cloud printing so users can work from any environment. The judges noted, "This is a good solution for educators who want to integrate 3D printing into their curriculum but aren't sure how. The solution packages the supplies, support, PD, and technology to make the users and students comfortable and successful." 

Boxlight-EOS Professional Development

Boxlight-EOS has developed training solutions that enable technology integration, increased efficiency and effectiveness, and improved outcomes for teachers and students. The EOS philosophy is based on three fundamentals to improve teaching and learning quality: teacher motivation, teacher effectiveness, and purposeful engagement. Their research-based programs are built with customization in mind, and are focused on using the hardware and software platforms available to the teacher. Training can be facilitated in-person, virtual, or a combination of both. Our judges liked the solution overall, especially the free options, flexibility in delivery, and customization of training. 

Carnegie Learning Fast ForWord

Fast ForWord is an adaptive, personalized program that helps struggling K-12 readers achieve their full potential as learners. Fast ForWord's 3-in-1 approach simultaneously develops reading, cognitive, and social-emotional skills. Supported by more than 30 years of research on the science of reading and learning, Fast ForWord uses a neuroscience-based approach to target and address the root causes of reading struggle.  "The Fast ForWord product from Carnegie Learning is a robust tool for students and teachers to improve reading achievement quickly," said our judges. "We particularly liked the continuous multilevel progress-monitoring feature for teachers to easily track response to intervention progress."

CatchOn 

CatchOn is an expansive data analytics tool that provides district leaders a window into the efficacy of their technology investments, initiatives, integrations, and professional development. The tool aims to empower districts to achieve better education outcomes while simultaneously reducing costs and safeguarding student data. CatchOn’s intuitive dashboard enables users to quickly access critical information and perform on-the-spot analysis of real-time data and KPIs. The judges said, "This is very valuable for tech directors looking at ROI and engagement for digital tools. It gives real-time analytic information on student app/website use and allows for accurate planning and budgeting of resources and PD."

ClassLink Suite

ClassLink provides cloud-based education products that connect educators and students with their classroom, their curriculum, and one another, offering instant access to apps and files with single sign-on, streamlined class rostering, automatic account provisioning, and actionable analytics. Our judges called it "nifty software" that's "so convenient," adding, "For young students this is a big benefit; it makes it easy to access online programs." 

Clear Touch Interactive 43XE Mini Convertible Stand

Clear Touch's Mini Convertible Mobile Stand offers fully adjustable height and angle settings with an extra low profile for early learners. With accessibility in mind, this stand was designed with a C-shaped base to allow for closer proximity to the technology. The quiet electrical motor makes adjustments simple and the anti-collision technology ensures safety. The stand is equipped with cable management to hide wires and make for a sleeker look overall. "This is a very good mobile solution that gives teachers the ability to convert their boards to an interactive table,” said the judges. “The design does allow for users to interact without legs, etc., getting in the way. 

ContentKeeper Technologies: ContentKeeper Cloud

ContentKeeper Cloud provides the cross-platform cloud filtering intelligence required to ensure a safe and secure digital and virtual learning environment. Key benefits include web filtering across all platforms, including iOS, PC, MAC, Android, Chromebook, BYOD, and IoT devices; integration with directory services; granular domain and subdomain controls, allowing safe access to popular domains including YouTube, Vimeo, and Google; real-time monitoring alerts; detailed insights for policy compliance and student safety requirements; and flexible deployment options. Our judges liked all of the features of ContentKeeper Cloud. 

CTL Chromebook NL71TW

The CTL Chromebook NL71TW houses an Intel® Gemini Lake R Quad Core N4120 Processor that has the capability to flip from laptop to tablet mode, engaging the 10-point multi-touch IPS screen. Users have the ability to complete tasks with the Wacom EMR Stylus Pen that can be stowed by one of the two USB ports. The two different HD camera options provide different perspectives for distance learners or those who may be capturing media or live streaming with 4/32GB or 8/64GB storage options. Other features include a scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass IPS, water-resistant keyboard, anti-peel keys, non-slip texture, and the ability to withstand drops from the average desk height. "This is a solid and versatile Chromebook," our judges said. They especially liked the ruggedized features, options for stylus, the world-facing camera, and carry handles. 

Curriculum Associates i-Ready

Curriculum Associates’ i-Ready helps teachers balance differentiated instruction with engaging grade-level learning. The online program combines assessments for K-12 and rich insights with effective and motivating instruction in reading and mathematics for K-8 to address students’ individual needs. Today, the program serves more than 9 million students nationwide and approximately 25 percent of all K-8 students across all 50 states. "With all the data-driven decisions, this tool gives actual real-time solutions and information. An all-in-one data platform," the judges said.  

Defined Learning

Defined Learning is an online project-based learning (PBL) solution providing K-12 curriculum and assessment tools (virtually or in-person), a library of standards-aligned projects, career-focused videos, editable rubrics, and more. Defined Learnings projects are based on careers and provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges. "Defined Learning is super powerful when it comes to bringing the power of makerspaces and STE(A)M learning to each and every classroom. This program is robust and easy for teachers to implement and integrate into their daily lessons," said our judges. 

EarlyBird Education 

With EarlyBird, educators can identify children at risk for reading difficulties in the window when intervention is most effective — before they formally learn to read. Developed at Boston Children’s Hospital in partnership with faculty at the Florida Center for Reading Research, EarlyBird brings together all the relevant predictors of reading in one assessment. The cloud-based EarlyBird technology platform includes a game-based app that provides comprehensive, validated student testing, and a dashboard that points teachers to customized action plans and evidence-based resources. "This product addresses, identifies, and assesses dyslexia in even our youngest students using phonological awareness, rapid automatic naming, sound symbol correspondence, and oral language comprehension," said the judges. "Students do not need to be readers to be identified for intervention." 

Edmentum EdOptions Academy

EdOptions Academy (EOA) pairs research-based online curriculum with state-certified online teachers to provide a student-centered kindergarten through career virtual learning experience. EOA also offers supplemental instructional services fit for virtual and in-person classrooms. With 500+ courses ranging from highly interactive, caregiver-supported elementary subjects to AP® and CTE options—as well as optional Student Success Coaches, IEP/504 plan support and instruction, and online tutoring—EOA is equipped to expand options and increase access to learning for all students, including those who are hospital- and home-bound, in military/traveling families, with behavioral needs, athletes, and working. Said the judges: "The EdOptions Academy course materials are cleanly designed, easy to navigate, and use, with high-quality media content. Information is clearly presented, and with the combination of text and media elements, courses are engaging and grade-appropriate." 

Edmentum Exact Path

Exact Path combines adaptive diagnostic assessments with individualized learning paths to promote growth for K-12 students in math, reading, and language arts. The program is ideal as individualized instruction to accelerate learning for all, or as targeted intervention to address unfinished learning inside of a tiered RTI or MTSS program. With Exact Path, teachers can diagnose needs, instruct students with individualized learning paths, target learner needs, plan intervention, and analyze growth, progress, and usage. "Exact Path's adaptive features personalize learning for all students," said the judges. "Mastery of skills through analysis of student skill levels is valuable for teachers as they challenge and support students." 

eGlass by Pathway

eGlass allows teachers to write on the board without turning their backs, increasing student engagement and allowing students to see the teacher’s facial expressions, gestures, and gaze alongside their writing. Our judges were impressed and noted, "eGlass is THE tool for interactive classroom teaching for both in-person and hybrid or concurrent lessons simultaneously! The software that reverses the teacher's handwriting so that the teacher can see what they write correctly is outstanding, and the ability to add graphics and multimedia to your lessons in real-time is amazing." 

EiE, Museum of Science: Engineering and Computer Science Essentials™

Engineering and Computer Science Essentials™ (Essentials) is an integrated engineering and computer science curriculum that shows how STEM and computer science practices work together. Essentials offers engaging classroom lessons in five paired engineering and computer science (CS) units for grades 1-5. For teachers, a digital guide provides step-by-step preparation, instructions, and resources to differentiate activities. In the engineering unit, students learn about an engineering field (optical, agricultural, transportation, green, or environmental engineering), get hands-on with materials, and use the Engineering Design Process (EDP) to solve real-world problems. Students then extend their learning in the CS unit, exploring topics including robots, animations, computer games, and digital images. "This product ensures that students of all abilities are successful in STEM programs through hands-on, minds-on real world activities," said the judges. 

Emotional ABCs 

Emotional ABCs is an evidence-based social-emotional leanring curriculum for grades K-3. The program is free to teachers and school counselors at brick-and-mortar public and private schools. Emotional ABCs is used by parents and teachers in 90 countries and by educators and school counselors at more than 65,000 schools across the U.S. (as well as in more than 3,0000 special education classrooms). "Its versatile approach provides teachers and students many options, including games, videos, and animation," noted T & L judges.  

Flocabulary acquired by Renaissance: Flocabulary

Flocabulary helps students build literacy, vocabulary, and reading comprehension skills through interactive videos, activities, and lessons. Throughout the 700+ K-12 standards-aligned lessons, Flocabulary showcases a diverse range of cultures, develops social and emotional skills, and increases exposure to Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary. Lessons span current events, language arts, science, social studies, math, and life skills. Teachers can monitor student progress and overall comprehension with Flocabulary’s lesson data to identify and address learning gaps. "Great product that engages students through music and videos that are culturally relevant and spark engagement. It also ties to state standards and is easily integrated with classroom lessons," said our judges. 

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Writable

Writable®is a digital writing platform that helps teachers scaffold and motivate students to become purposeful, proficient writers. With more than 600 customizable assignments, including essays, short responses, student models, state-level benchmark assessments, and more, Writable helps schools assess and monitor writing growth. With hundreds of assignment templates and district or state-level benchmark assessments, Writable helps teachers strengthen their writing instruction while saving time on prep and feedback. "This product's real-time feedback, assessment, and skill-building tools support what is going on in the classroom," said our judges. “It supports not only middle and high school students, but also the younger grades." 

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Waggle

Waggle® is a digital learning solution for grades K-8 that supports skills diversity for in-class centers, independent practice, or blended learning. The software adapts the practice level to meet students' needs. Waggle assesses both growth and proficiency by analyzing 13 data points for each item a student encounters. The data collected also identify skill gaps that teachers can use for deeper intervention, differentiate core ELA and math instruction with small-group hybrid instruction for MTSS, or reinforce key concepts with extra practice. "This product for younger students supports ELA and math skills through multimedia experiences. Its tiered approach is ideal for remote, independent, and small group learning," our judges noted. 

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Amira Learning

Amira, for grades K-5, provides 1:1 reading tutoring, assesses oral reading fluency, and screens for dyslexia risk to help accelerate reading mastery for all students—in English and en español. After students take the assessment, they are placed into 1:1 reading tutoring, powered by dozens of micro-interventions. Amira delivers 25+ micro-interventions that are a scaffold to support the early reader in mastering foundational reading skills. The entire class can be screened in under 11 minutes in a 1:1 setting – from anywhere. The judges said, "What makes this a valuable product is that it uses students' oral reading fluency assessment to automatically place them into powerful 1:1 reading tutoring." 

HUE Animation Studio

HUE Animation Studio is a STEM.org approved, all-in-one stop-motion animation kit for children aged 7-13.   Recommended by child development expert Dr. Amanda Gummer, this educational kit fosters 21st-century skills such as collaboration, planning, and critical thinking through creative play and project-based learning. The kit includes the HUE HD camera, perpetual single-use license of HUE Animation software designed for children by teachers, the HUE Book of Animation with step-by-step instructions, and digital resources including sound effects, backdrops, and printable activity sheets. The judges said, "HUE Animation Studio is a great addition to a teacher's toolbox. The use of canned resources such as sound effects will also kickstart creativity and lower frustration."  

Illuminate Education eduCLIMBER

eduCLIMBER is an interactive data management and visualization system that helps to strengthen multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) implementations. Educators can identify student needs and determine intervention effectiveness. Features include: student profiles, virtual behavior walls, interactive reports to track student progress, data aggregations, custom equity dashboards to monitor key programs and initiatives, and more. "This MTSS solution focuses on the whole child approach. With its real time date, it monitors growth and supports SEB," said our judges.  

Illuminate Education FastBridge

FastBridge is a research-based universal screening and progress-monitoring system for reading, math, and social-emotional behavior (SEB). The system includes intervention recommendations and built-in coaching. Benefits include a whole child focus with both academic and SEB screening and progress-monitoring data, SEB screening in 1-3 minutes per student, actionable “screening-to-intervention” reports, reliable results with evidence-based tools, and more. Our judges said, "This product supports social and emotional learning in schools. Its one-stop shop evaluates and provides interventions that can easily be integrated into classroom and small-group instruction."                            

Imagine Learning: Imagine Español                                                 

Imagine Español is a personalized learning program that accelerates grade-level reading and language proficiency in Spanish for students in grades PreK-2. Designed to celebrate Spanish language and culture, Imagine Español is a rigorous, standards-aligned language and literacy solution that teaches foundational skills essential to succeed in school. The instructional design provides contextualized practice for each learner to amplify confidence for reading, singing, and communicating in Spanish. Students take an initial placement assessment that evaluates Spanish language proficiency, and once placed in the program, work independently to complete activities in an engaging game-like environment. The judges said, "Its utilization as an after-school or summer program extends learning and provides scaffolded instruction to both native and non-native Spanish-speaking students.”  

Imagine Learning: Imagine Math PreK–High School

 Imagine Math PreK-8 is an adaptive, online, supplemental math solution that combines rigorous instruction and meaningful practice in two age-appropriate learning environments. Imagine Math PreK-2: Visual models, songs, and contextualized vocabulary reinforce personalized learning and academic language development. Available in English and Spanish. Imagine Math 3+ builds conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills with personalized learning pathways and on-demand access to live, certified bilingual teachers. The embedded audio and visual supports reinforce language development and comprehension. "This supplemental math program supports a language-based approach to teaching math to students as young as pre-K. It ignites engagement through student choice," noted our judges. 

Infobase Learn360

Learn360 is a streaming multimedia resource for K-12 schools, allowing teachers, students, and parents to access more than 182,000 media resources on any internet-enabled device, anytime, anywhere. Engaging content landing pages make it easy to find videos, interactives, printables, audio content, maps, and flags. The entire site and all landing pages can be filtered by grade level (all grades, elementary, or middle/high) for targeted browsing. "This multi subject K-12 media library eliminates the need to use YouTube and other websites that may not be as secure as needed for students," the judges said. 

Learning.com EasyTech

EasyTech is a comprehensive building-level and district solution for K-12, which develops students’ digital, computer science, and STEM skills for asynchronous instruction in both traditional and online classroom environments. The curriculum offers hands-on practice and gamified content that culminate in real-world projects. EasyTech provides K-12 curriculum for the following areas: computational thinking; presentations; coding; spreadsheets and databases; computer fundamentals; visual mapping; word processing; multimedia; online safety and digital citizenship; internet usage and communications; and keyboarding and virtual robotics. Said TL judges: "This product brings digital literacy to school districts as they implement STEAM and STEM programs in their schools. Classroom teachers and students benefit from assistive technology and interdisciplinary lessons." 

IMPACT™: Rapid-cycle Evaluation by LearnPlatform

IMPACT™ is a rapid-cycle evaluation (RCE) engine that uses data from multiple sources (e.g., usage, achievement, demographics, cost, feedback) to generate evidence about the effectiveness of edtech interventions. District administrators use this evidence to make informed decisions about edtech interventions, and ensure they are advancing outcomes for students and working for teachers and budgets. Rapid-cycle evaluations using IMPACT are formative and iterative, allowing administrators to examine what works in their local contexts using real-world data and a cyclical research design within a condensed time frame. "This addition to the LearnPlatform program allows district leaders to assess the ROI of digital software. This program ensures equity, data privacy and improves digital integration," said our judges. 

Lesson Planet Learning Explorer

Learning Explorer is a learning object repository and curriculum management platform for preK-12 teachers. Its database contains more than 4 million curated educational videos, images, teacher-reviewed resources, and district-procured content from publishers including Discovery Education, McGraw Hill, Newsela, and others.  "This one-stop shopping product provides teachers with a platform to curate district digital content, web resources, OER resources, and standards to develop lessons and units. It is easy to navigate, share, download, and push out to students," said the judges.  

Lexia Learning: Lexia Core5 Reading

Lexia Core5 Reading is an adaptive blended learning program that provides all students—from at-risk to on-level and advanced—a systematic and structured approach to six areas of reading, from phonological awareness to comprehension. With Core5, teachers can differentiate instruction using data powered by Lexia’s patented Assessment Without Testing® technology. Administrators can see a full picture of academic progress across a district, school, grade, and class, down to the individual student. Core5 received a “Strong” rating—the highest ranking available—from independent review organization Evidence for ESSA, part of the Johns Hopkins School of Education. Our judges said, "Students use Lexia every day in our district, in class, at home, or in the library. Each level has a variety of skills that they need to complete covering reading, phonics, and letter names and sounds. A very useful and dynamic tool." 

Logitech Rugged Combo 3 Touch

The Logitech Rugged Combo 3 Touch is a protective keyboard case with an integrated Multi-TouchTM trackpad for 7th and 8th generation iPads. The Rugged Combo 3 Touch offers five versatile use modes (View, Type, Sketch, Read, Camera) and sealed, pry-resistant keys. Its sturdy design and construction can withstand drops of up to 4.5 ft (1.4 m), and the device uses Smart Connector technology to connect to the iPad instantly—no pairing or charging required. "This is a nice case solution that is protective with a good keyboard. Access to the camera and the attached keyboard keep the parts together, as well as preventing students from swapping devices," said our judges. 

MAXCases Explorer 4 Work-In Case

The MAXCases Explorer 4 Work-In Case with Pocket is an always-on protective case that doubles as a carrying bag that offers features developed from educator feedback, such as an added “hinge strap,” non-scratch bezel hooks, and stay-put elastic straps with gel microbeads. Other features include interior airflow channels that dissipate heat, a weather-resistant ballistic-nylon exterior, dual carry handles, elastic pocket, and interior ID holder. Available in 11” and 14” sizes to accommodate most standard-sized Chromebooks, MacBooks, and laptops. "This is an excellent protective Work-in Case," said our judges. "We appreciate the detail in design for not only protection, but also cooling and quality components." 

MIND Research Institute ST Math

ST Math is a preK-8 visual instructional program that leverages the brain's innate spatial-temporal reasoning ability to solve mathematical problems. The program’s patented approach helps students learn through challenging puzzles, non-routine problem solving, and informative feedback. ST Math meets What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) quasi-experiment and ESSA Tier 2 requirements. ST Math currently reaches more than 1.7 million students, 100,000 teachers, and 8,200 schools. "This product teaches students math the way the brain learns. Its premise is teaching the foundational concepts visually, then connecting the ideas to the symbols, language, and discourse," said the judges.  

MobileMInd

MobileMind, a Google-certified professional development partner, offers a cloud-based, asynchronous learning platform designed to help teachers integrate technology into the classroom. With two offerings, MobileMind for Google and MobileMind HQ, the professional learning hub allows districts to consolidate all PD initiatives, from Google Workspace for Education to other technology, compliance, and curriculum. MobileMind delivers anytime, anywhere access to personalized, gamified micro-courses, activity-based learning, digital badging, and reporting. The judges said, "This professional development tool not only supports teachers using Google apps in their classrooms, but also provides a professional learning hub that district and school leaders can use throughout the school year."  

MobyMax

MobyMax offers a complete K-8 curriculum for 27 subjects, including math, reading, phonics, language, vocabulary, spelling, writing, science, social studies, and state test prep. MobyMax‘s digital courseware solution can be used on any device with an internet connection. Its suite of integrated and automated classroom tools provides comprehensive assessments, grading and markup tools for writing, diagnostics, IEP reporting, messaging, and real-time progress monitoring. Moby’s Pinpoint Assessments allow teachers to drill down to discrete skills to get an instant snapshot of where students are. "This product's suite of integrated and automated classroom tools and interactive curriculum personalized learning for students," said our judges. "It also provides real-time snapshots of student progress to enable them to support learning." 

Move This World 

Move This World is a provider of social-emotional learning multimedia experiences for preK-12 students, educators, and families. Designed for implementation that is both impactful and simple, the MTW platform allows educators and families to incorporate SEL into their students’ schedules every day, without planning or prep. The extensive multimedia library provides a robust and engaging daily curriculum. "This SEL solution uses short evidence-based videos that introduce a common language and methods for expressing emotion. It can be implemented as part of a classroom lesson throughout the year with age-appropriate concepts and no additional preparation by teachers," said the judges.  

Nearpod acquired by Renaissance: Nearpod

Nearpod creates opportunities for teacher-driven, student-centered learning. Teachers can upload their existing content and make it interactive using Nearpod’s 20+ formative assessment and rich-media features so that all learning is active and collaborative. Educators can also tap Nearpod’s library of more than 15,000 standards-aligned lessons, videos, and activities, created both in-house and in partnership with leading publishers such as Common Sense Education, iCivics, and Smithsonian. The judges said, "Nearpod as an online platform for schools has been invaluable. With its interactive content and resources, teachers can customize lessons and activities that are personalized and student-centered."  

NUITEQ Snowflake

NUITEQ Snowflake is a desktop and online (snowflake.live) educational software that brings interactivity to a school and remote learning environments, and aims to boost classroom engagement by using Smarter Human Interaction. NUITEQ Snowflake enables teachers and students to tell engaging, interactive stories that are aligned with the curriculum, provides a safe community for online and small group collaboration, and allows synchronous and asynchronous personalized instruction. Our judges said, "Based on UDL, this product provides teachers with an engaging game-based platform, with content aligned to standards, including lesson plans and instructions for differentiation. Its ability to include multiple forms of media provides equal access to content, whether in the classroom or online." 

OverDrive Education: Sora, the student reading app

Students use Sora to read popular ebooks and audiobooks from their school library, access curriculum titles assigned by educators, and borrow age-appropriate titles from the public library. Available on all popular devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops via browser, Sora gives students 24/7 access to digital books. Sora’s customizable catalog and learning tools (including exportable notes and highlights, dyslexic font, in-app definitions, and Google Translate) help eliminate reading barriers and support literacy goals. The app incentivizes engagement with avatars and achievement badges while educators can assign individual titles, view reading analytics, and more. Sora's Public Library CONNECT lets students borrow digital books from their public library via Sora. Said the judges: "Both teachers and students can curate ebooks within their own collections or classroom. Its assistive technology tools ensure that all students are avid readers."  

Pixton Comics Inc.: Pixton 

Pixton is a web app that gives teachers and students a unique way to create stories, demonstrate learning, and enhance writing assignments through digital comics. Users can explore topics in math, science, social studies, history, English, art, or any other subject. Choose images from popular content, books, and movies such as The Hunger Games or The Outsiders, plus other topics including the solar system, Black history, or the environment – all Common-Core aligned. No drawing skills are required. Pixton levels the playing field with hundreds of preset characters, backgrounds, outfits, poses, and even emoticons. "Pixton is a wonderful tool to get students writing as well as making their writing come alive with characters," said our judges. "It covers substitution, augmentation, modification, and redefinition in the SAMR model, which is very important." 

Therapy Essentials from PresenceLearning

Therapy Essentials, which includes the PresenceLearning interactive platform, assessments, and training for school-based teams, helps clinicians deliver services in-person or remotely for special ed students. Clinicians, including speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, and school psychologists, have access to professional training with practical, effective approaches for getting the most out of therapy in any environment. Key features of PresenceLearning’s platform include a content library, a comprehensive selection of top assessments embedded into the platform (FERPA compliant to protect student privacy), and more. "Offering therapy through online support makes it so much easier to schedule students as well as eases the issues that districts are facing trying to recruit these positions in their districts. The live video therapy still has the feel of being face-to-face and has built-in tools and activities for students to practice and learn," said the judges.  

Promethean World ActivPanel

Promethean’s ActivPanel is an interactive display designed for modern classrooms. Its unified menu is always accessible, allowing teachers to move between content and resources without disrupting the lesson flow. The ActivPanel includes Promethean’s lesson delivery software, ActivInspire® and ClassFlow®, keeping remote, hybrid, and in-person students engaged with interactive lessons, activities, quizzes, and abundant immersive resources. Our judges said, "Promethean ActivPanel offers teacher control through classflow, easy management through their panel management software, and the OS makes it easy to switch through applications seamlessly. Having these panels on carts helps ensure that learning can take place anytime and anywhere."  

Reading Horizons Discovery®

Reading Horizons Discovery® is a phonics-based solution that provides educators with the tools they need to teach beginning and struggling readers and help K-3 students build a strong foundation in reading and spelling. It supports the needs of students with dyslexia, ELL students, and special ed students. With differentiated instruction built in, the program effectively teaches students in each RTI Tier. "This product differentiates instruction for each student to meet their needs. This is so important to get students more practice on skills they are struggling with as well as letting students move on for skills they have mastered.  This would be a wonderful product to get students reading on grade level," said the judges. 

Renaissance Freckle

Freckle is an adaptive practice program that helps educators differentiate math, ELA, science, and social studies. Featuring more than 70,000 unique math questions and more than 1,000 fiction and nonfiction passages, Freckle also includes science and social studies resources to support learning across the curriculum. A blend of student-friendly incentives, age-appropriate designs, and adaptation provides the right balance of fun and learning to help students progress at their own pace—whatever that is. "Materials are adaptive and keep students engaged by being short and at their level. Collecting coins to spend at the store will likely be an incentive for younger students," said our judges.  

Renaissance Star Assessments

Star Assessments are a suite of assessments for reading, math, and early literacy, available to educators in both English and Spanish. Star’s computer-adaptive tests (CATs) mean that each student’s experience is unique because questions start at grade level and get more difficult as students answer correctly, or less difficult if they answer incorrectly. By eliminating unnecessary questions in this way, Star assesses individual student growth and performance in fewer items and less time than non-adaptive assessments. The judges called it a "great resource."  

Renaissance Accelerated Reader

Accelerated Reader is an independent reading practice program that helps K-12 students become confident readers. Supporting more than 220,000 fiction and nonfiction books and articles at a wide range of levels, Accelerated Reader gives students extensive choice in what they read—and keeps them engaged in independent reading practice as they work toward personalized goals. Accelerated Reader is used by millions of students at 26,000 schools and districts to read more than 320 million books per year. "The designed quizzes and activities demand meaningful reflection and challenge kids to develop their reading skills. Terrific reports and interface, and the built-in tours, online instructional videos, and lively user community make for a supportive, intuitive experience," said our judges. 

RobotLAB Inc. VR Expeditions 2.0

VR Expeditions 2.0™ is a virtual reality field trips tool, inspired by Google's great work with the now discontinued Expeditions app, and following feedback from thousands of educators. Using the app, teachers can take students on virtual field trips to various locations, while engaging the students with history, arts, culture, science, and geography. Said the judges: "The VR Expeditions from RobotLab is a great way to continue VR Expeditions in your classroom and really enhance all sorts of lessons!" 

SAE International - A World in Motion Navigating the Digital Universe

SAE International’s A World In Motion® (AWIM) worked with d’Vinci to create Navigating the Digital Universe, an online curriculum to teach elementary school children about their rights and responsibilities as digital citizens. Through blended hands-on and digital activities, students learn how to engage with technology and the digital world in a positive, responsible way. A trusted robot named Maze helps kids explore five planets to learn the importance of digital safety, communication, literacy, and ethics. The judges said, "Navigating the Digital Universe has made it easy to teach elementary students how to become great digital citizens and help them to navigate the digital world in a positive, safe, and responsible way. This would be a great addition to any classroom."   

Scholastic F.I.R.S.T.

Scholastic F.I.R.S.T. (Foundations in Reading, Sounds & Text) is an adaptive digital adventure on Ooka Island that teaches the five foundational reading skills: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension for students in grades preK-2. This 80-hour curriculum delivers research-based instruction within an interactive, personalized learning environment that includes skill development, ongoing feedback, reinforcement of learning concepts, and encouraging characters. F.I.R.S.T. uses continuous formative assessment to pinpoint the precise moment a student needs acceleration or intervention, and offers support to help each student succeed and reach proficiency. "The Scholastic F.I.R.S.T. reading program for early literacy as young as 2 years old is outstanding!" said our judges. "The game-based journey engages students right away, works on multiple device platforms, and provides fantastic reporting and assessment capabilities for teachers." 

Scholastic Scholastic Literacy Pro

Scholastic Literacy Pro (grades K-8) is an independent, instructional reading program that provides access to more than 2,500 ebooks. Students set and monitor personal goals, while educators are provided real-time, actionable data about activities, comprehension, and progress. With built-in assessments, differentiation tools, and the ability to create student groups based on reading levels, interests, and skills from the program, Literacy Pro helps teachers manage reading for their entire class, anytime and anywhere. Our judges noted, "This new product from Scholastic is incredible for increasing literacy for all ages. It offers a unique blended learning approach and is versatile for both in-person and remote learning as well as self-paced and guided reading opportunities!" 

Screencast-O-Matic

Screencast-O-Matic is a screen capture, video-editing, and video-hosting platform. The end-to-end solution provides educational institutions convenient tools to share information and streamline learning and development. Teachers, students, districts, and universities can record, edit, and share videos to enhance and improve learning. Educators can easily create tutorials or lessons for classroom instruction, and share videos with students for homework. Students and teachers can communicate more effectively with the addition of video conversations, creating an interactive learning environment. "Screencast-O-Matic has a very user-friendly platform that allows users to create, edit, share, and manage your videos. It is also priced very well for education," said the judges. 

SMART Technologies Lumio

Lumio is web-based software that helps teachers create engaging lessons that students interact with through their devices, in class, remotely, or on their own time. Teachers import lessons and resources -- including combining and editing a variety of file types -- and enhance these with customizable components, such as games, activities, and collaborative workspaces. The judges said, "Being able to put all your lesson elements in one place saves a lot of instructional time, as well as helping keep students on task. The pre-made lessons are a wonderful way for teachers to get started and save time." 

Snapplify Engage

Engage combines Snapplify’s collaborative elearning products into one platform -- giving schools access to their own 24-hour-access digital content library and allowing institutions to purchase curriculum-aligned textbooks and share teacher-created, multimedia resource materials with students. The platform offers a free tier designed to lower barriers to entry -- any institution can register online, for free, and access tens of thousands of free ebooks and resources. The free Snapplify Reader application works across a range of operating systems, allows for offline use, and provides accessibility features, such as text-to-speech, large-print, and dyslexia fonts. The judges said, "The power of the tool is it allows teachers to add different media to reinforce the text they are assigning to the students."     

Sourcewell edSpring

edSpring is a tool-agnostic platform that helps educators identify students who are potentially at risk in a consistent, equitable way. Offering district-level insight and teacher-level control, edSpring monitors, reports, and coaches educators and administrators on factors that impact MTSS and RTI performance. Screening results, assessments, attendance, behavior, grades, and progress monitoring are all centrally located in a secure repository and updated nightly. The data analysis and best practice intervention strategy bank creates a clear picture of intervention supports for every student. "This fills a need for all campuses to pull data from other sources and put it in an easily adaptable dashboard," said the judges. "This product will save a ton of time for staff and help students get the support they need." 

Sourcewell SpringMath

SpringMath is a research-based math intervention solution that aims to accelerate achievement for all K-8 students. SpringMath's interactive platform combines tools for assessment, intervention, and progress monitoring to help teachers provide a clear path to math achievement for every learner. Our judges noted, "The nice thing about SpringMath is that lessons will change depending on mastery. Interventions can be done whole-class or individually, which gives teachers choice depending on schedules." 

Studypad SplashLearn

SplashLearn is a digital game-based learning program for math and reading, allowing teachers to assign, monitor, review, and assess student work through the teacher dashboard. A dedicated dashboard for parents allows them to view their child's activity and performance and to customize the experience. It has a content library of 6,500+ math and reading games and worksheets that break each topic into several milestones. Each milestone is further divided into several learning objectives, which consist of 4 to 5 small tasks or learning units. The program has an adaptive algorithm that offers each child a personalized learning experience. The judges called the teacher and student dashboards "very user-friendly" and appreciated the digital rewards and game-based approach.     

TCI Social Studies and Science Blended Learning Solution

 TCI's science and social studies programs and resources offer an interactive curriculum that is comprehensive and promotes blended learning methods. Included are ready-to-teach lessons, rich media, lesson games, interactive activities, and more. "TCI has put a complete blended learning platform together to teach students K-8 in science and K-12 in social studies," said our judges. "The program gives teachers a flexible approach and guides them through powerful lessons." 

TeacherMade

TeacherMade lets users create interactive digital worksheets from any PDF or DOCX in a few clicks. TeacherMade is also a markup tool to transform content and auto-score it. Upload PDFs and overlay any of 12 auto-graded question interaction zones. Then transform by adding audio, hyperlinks, video, and more. Assign to students through the app or favorite LMS: Google Classroom, Schoology, or Canvas. As students submit their work, TeacherMade auto-grades their assignment and provides tools for the teacher to provide customized feedback. Our judges said, "This is a time saver for teachers and allows them to put together powerful online lessons with just a few clicks. The free version works great, and the priced-right pro version gives teachers more control, more features, and helps them stay organized." 

Teq OTIS for educators

OTIS for educators is an online professional learning platform that offers courses on how to effectively integrate technology into instruction. The on-demand PD library and calendar of live sessions provide easy access to hundreds of courses, with topics on STEM, SEL, literacy, ENL/ELL, and more. OTIS is a Google for Education Partner, Microsoft Training Partner, and ISTE standards-aligned. "With its numerous courses, accreditations and certification options, OTIS provides educators with anytime, anywhere learning," our judges noted. 

TinkRworks STEAM-X

TinkRworks provides STEAM project kits that build upon skills that students learn as they progress. Projects range from programming sensors that measure the moisture content of potted plants (for 2nd-grade students) to designing, building, and flying quadcopter drones (for 6th-grade students). These are not shared classroom manipulatives, but personalized kits kids take home and keep, customizing and extending the learning beyond the classroom. TinkRworks uses a train-the-trainer methodology to certify educators in leading-edge STEAM instruction. "This STEAM curriculum provider offers a great way to purchase a classroom-based STEAM solution," said our judges. "They align to the core curriculum standards and have developed age- and grade-level appropriate lessons." 

Twig Education: Twig Create

Twig Create allows K-8 students to create and fulfill video-based tasks to help them build language skills. The program provides editable, ready-made digital media and film templates. Lessons are mapped to numerous standards, including ELA, ELD/WIDA, science, history, and social sciences. To accelerate students’ language development and support students who may struggle with paper-and-pen-based reading and writing lessons, Twig Create provides visual sentence frames for different reading levels to help students practice toward mastery. "TwigCreate is not only safe and secure, but also gives access to millions of rights-cleared multimedia content. Video is a powerful way to give students choice and voice in their education and is a great way for students to learn how to collaborate on a project," said the judges. 

Twig Education: TwigScience | NEXT GEN

Twig Science Next Gen is a complete preK-8 STEM program built for the Next Generation Science Standards. It provides comprehensive coverage of 3-D science standards through engaging hands-on and digital investigations in which students take on the roles of real-world scientists and engineers. It brings real-world science into students’ lives through interactive Twig Books, theater-quality video, and engaging multimedia. The judges said, "TwigScience has partnered with SCALE and Imperial College London to create a wonderful STEM curriculum," and added that the program would be especially useful for teachers without a STEM background. 

Varitronics, LLC: VariQuest Visual and Kinesthetic Learning Suite

The VariQuest® Visual and Kinesthetic Learning Suite provides easy-to-use visual and kinesthetic learning tools paired with leading-edge content. Its Perfecta® Series Poster Design Systems, Cutout Maker 1800 Digital Die-Cut System, Motiva® 400 Specialty Printer, and Cold Laminator 2510 all work together using Engage Every Learner® Content and VariQuest Design Software to create and edit posters, banners, flash cards, labels, bulletin board cutouts, learning supports, anchor charts, and more. More than 20,000 templates, cutouts, fonts, graphics, and collections are included. Our judges noted, "The Design Center software looks very user-friendly and we like the fact that there are thousands of graphics and posters preloaded." 

ViewSonic myViewBoard Visual Learning Suite

The ViewSonic myViewBoard™ Visual Learning Software Suite is a collection of tools that allows teachers to build lessons and find and share engaging content, while IT administrators can maintain the devices with less effort. The software allows real-time wireless collaboration, screen mirroring/sharing, and digital whiteboarding. It works with Windows-, Android-, and cloud-based environments. A part of the ViewSonic myViewBoard education ecosystem, the software suite includes: myViewBoard Manager Advanced, myViewBoard Clips, and myViewBoard Classroom. The combination of these programs allow educators to manage multiple devices, create engaging content, employ video-assisted learning, and more. Our judges said," Viewsonic's Visual Learning Suite provides a powerful whiteboard annotation software that works with most devices. One of the key features we like is you can bring in lessons from Smart and Promethean without losing functionality.” 

One by Wacom

The One by Wacom pen tablet offers a portable design for small desk spaces and flexible classroom arrangements. The tablet works with PC, Mac, and most Chromebooks, and the pressure-sensitive and battery-free pen brings a familiar, pen-on-paper feel to drawing and writing, and is simple to set up and use. It can be used with most pen-enabled creative software, as well as many online learning applications and platforms. "The One by Wacom is a wonderful tool to allow teachers and students to annotate on their device with a natural feel," said the judges. "This is also very important when teaching virtual students." 

Although many students have returned to in-person learning this fall, online education tools are here to stay.  The best online learning platforms are powerful, interactive tools that engage our digital native students in a way that paper and pencil can’t match. Even if free teaching resources are available, paid tools often include many valuable extra features, providing a deeper learning experience for students, while saving time for teachers. 

But how can a teacher or principal know which education tools are worth the price? A free trial can help answer this question—but only if it is long enough to permit a full exploration of the benefits (and drawbacks) of each program. For this reason, every free trial featured in this article lasts at least 30 days, with some as long as a generous 90 days.

Best Free Trials For Education

Buncee
Buncee is a slide-based multimedia presentation tool with the latest creative features students love, such as stickers, emojis, videos, and music. Teachers will appreciate the simple drag-n-drop interface, the integration with Microsoft OneNote, and the ease of switching between desktop and smartphone. 30-day free trial with no credit card required.

Cospacesedu
A comprehensive AR/VR, coding, and 3D platform for education, Cospaces Edu provides virtual tools that allow students and educators to create and experiment with their own augmented reality worlds and games. Not a STEM teacher? No problem! Cospaces Edu is great for literature and storytelling, too. It’s also Common Core-aligned and integrated with Clever, Apple, Google, or Microsoft sign-in systems. 30-day free trial with code COSProTrial.

Data Classroom
This online data software enables users to analyze data, create graphs, and make use of ready-to-teach STEM lesson plans and activities. Data Classroom integrates with Google Drive and LMSs such as Google Classroom, Schoology, Canvas, and Clever. The 90-day free trial allows for the use of all features with no credit card required. 

Drawp for School
Drawp for School allows teachers and students to manage assignments digitally and provides a single platform for teachers to upload, assign, and grade. COPPA compliant, it includes Common Core-aligned lessons and unlimited cloud storage. Videos offer guidance on setting up and using the built-in tools. With the free 30-day trial, users can access full functionality, including the web-based app, and apps for iPads and Android tablets.

Explore Learning Gizmos
Named Best for Support in Tech & Learning’s Guide to Best Virtual Lab Software, the Gizmos website furnishes hundreds of standards-aligned math and science simulations, searchable by grade, academic standard, topic, and even textbook correlation. With the limited-time 30-day free trial, users gain full access to Gizmos virtual labs and simulations library.

FluentU
FluentU curates real-world foreign language video content, including news, movie trailers, and music videos to help users learn a new language from authentic speakers—instead of canned textbook conversations. The 90-day free trial of FluentU’s Academic Plus plan for schools grants access to unlimited videos, audio, flashcards, courses, printouts, personalized quizzes, and more. iPhone app, iPad app, Android app included. 

I Know it
This K-5 interactive math practice site uses fun animated characters to reinforce learning. The easy-to-navigate platform is arranged by grade level; within grades, lessons are sorted by math topics, with the specific Common Core standard just one click away. Mouse over lessons to see a preview. Free 30 day trial with unlimited access and no credit card required.

LinkedIn Learning
Formerly known and loved as Lynda.com, LinkedIn Learning offers an extensive array of courses for learners of any age, and for nearly any purpose. Whether you want to improve your teaching skills or start climbing the administrative ladder, courses such as Educational Leadership, Curriculum Development, and Finance will support your goals. One month free trial.

• Best Free Formative Assessment Tools and Apps
• Best Free Virtual Labs
• Best Free Plagiarism Checking Sites for Teachers

Method Test Prep
Method’s short online practice sessions for the all-important SAT and ACT tests are designed to maximize student attention and learning. In-person test prep is also available.  Free 60-day trial for educators and schools.

Noteflight Learn
Noteflight Learn is an online music education program that integrates with Google Classroom, Canvas, Schoology, and other Basic LTI LMS. The COPPA-compliant site features assignment creation, live audio recording, hundreds of lessons and thousands of scores from the Hal Leonard Online music library. The company offers a 60-day free trial for teachers, who can sign up to request their trial. 

Peergrade
Peergrade is an online platform to facilitate peer feedback among students. Teachers create assignments and choose from a library of feedback rubrics or devise their own. Students anonymously review their fellow students’ assignments using the feedback rubric. Students then respond to feedback on their work within the rubric, while the teacher monitors commentary and provides clarification as needed. 30-day free trial of Pro plan.

Prodigies
Prodigies is a music curriculum for ages 1-12 that teaches kids how to play their first instrument, how to sing in tune, and how to understand the language of music. Prodigies focuses on teaching the basics of pitch, rhythm, and music vocabulary, while equipping teachers with music curricula, lesson plans, workbooks, performance tracks, and quizzes. 30-day free trial.

Quaver
Targeted to music teachers, Quaver Music provides interactive teaching resources, a song catalog, drag-and-drop curriculum customization, automated gradebook, professional development, and district or school-level management reports. Lessons are aligned to the National Coalition for Core Arts Standards (NCCAS); custom curricula have been created for selected states. 30-day free trial.

Reading Rangers
A new web-based reading program designed to strengthen K-5 students’ foundational skills, Reading Rangers can be used in-person or remotely. Students rescue animals and embark on journeys filled with challenges, puzzles, and activities. 30-day free trial.

Softchalk
Softchalk content-authoring software helps schools and educators with the transition to online learning by letting teachers create their own interactive lessons. The site is divided according to school type: K12, community college, and university, and includes detailed instructions on integration with various learning management systems. 30-day free trial.

Sutori
Sutori is a collaborative teaching and presentation tool for the classroom or online teaching. GDPR, FERPA, CCPA and COPPA compliant, the platform provides specific guidance for teachers of social studies, math, science, language, ESL, and English. Free 30-day trial of all features. Work completed during the free trial will remain accessible and shareable via the free Essential version.

Symbaloo
Symbaloo offers a single location for educators to house all their bookmarks, from favorite teaching sites to educational videos and documents—or anything with a URL. It’s easy to get started right away using Symbaloo. Even before creating an account, users can explore the customization options for their homepage display and try different styles. 30-day free trial of ad-free Symbaloo or a three-month sponsored free trial.

Teaching Textbooks
Teaching Textbooks is a complete math curriculum marketed primarily to independent homeschoolers, but which is also adaptable for school teachers. Teaching Textbooks’ generous free trial consists of full access to all curricula up to lesson 15, including lectures, audiovisual solutions, ebooks, and automated grading. Trial users can select any or all of the curricula, from Precalculus to Math 7. The trial has no time limit.

The Character Tree
With all the required subjects educators must teach - reading, math, science, even physical education - there's hardly time in the school day for social-emotional related topics such as behavior and character building. Still, there’s no denying the importance of learning to get along with others, cultivating a positive mindset, and dealing effectively with difficult situations. The Character Tree provides videos, printable activities, teacher’s guides, and templates to help teachers implement character-based lessons. Additional resources such as webinars and character trait vocabulary cards further support SEL goals. 30-day free trial with no credit card required.

Typetastic
Typetastic School Edition is a full keyboarding curriculum spanning all K-12 grades. The curriculum is divided into three levels: K-2 Elementary, Upper Elementary, and Middle/High Schools. Each section offers hundreds of grade-appropriate activities, from “All Fingers Aboard” to “Touch Typing.” Features such as gamified learning and a dashboard to track student progress make Typetastic attractive to kids and educators alike.  No ads. Free 60-day trial for teachers, schools and districts.

TYTO Online
Teaching online STEM topics may be one of the greatest challenges of remote education. Tyto Online integrates real-world student-led investigations with online games and storylines. The company provides extensive teaching resources and employs strategies to support girls and underrepresented minorities. Free 60-day trial. 

Vernier Graphical Analysis Pro App
Graphical Analysis Pro allows users to collect, share, and analyze sensor data. Synchronize graphed data to experimental videos and use the replay feature to speed up or slow down phenomena. Teachers can create their own videos to distribute to students studying remotely. Free 30-day trial for educators.

Walkabouts 
Most web-based platforms require users to sit in front of a screen while working. Not so for Walkabouts, a unique movement-based lesson software that teaches math, language arts, and reading to preK-2 students while they’re running in place, jumping, or otherwise physically active. The research-based program offers a one-month free trial using the product code TRIAL1M.

WeVideo
WeVideo’s web- and app-based tools make it easy for students and teachers to capture, edit, and share video, podcasts, GIFs, and more. It’s designed to be highly user-friendly, so even younger learners will catch on quickly. 30-day free trial.

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ISTE offered its first virtual conference in November that consisted of a full week of workshops, sessions, and expert advice. While we missed seeing all of our friends in person, our judges were still able to check out the latest technology on display in the virtual exhibit hall to evaluate those products that were nominated for Tech & Learning’s annual Best of Show at ISTE. 

The judges rated their impressions of individual products on a sliding scale, evaluating areas such as value, uniqueness in the market, and the product’s ability to solve specific problems for educators and administrators. They also applied these same criteria to a new category for this program, “The Best of 2020.”

“It was inspiring to see so many innovative products on display at ISTE20 Live,” says Tech & Learning’s Content Director Christine Weiser. “One thing this challenging year has taught us is that education continues to be one of the most resilient and passionate industries around. The winners of the Best of Show at ISTE and The Best of 2020 are examples of how innovation will continue to transform teaching and learning through this pandemic and beyond.” 

Tech & Learning also announced a new Awards program, “The Best Tools for Remote & Blended Teaching & Learning,” as a way to celebrate the most impressive products and solutions that have shone during the challenges of the last year. Read more about that contest here. 

WINNERS: Best of Show at ISTE 

Acer: Helios 300 

Acer’s Predator Helios 300 gaming notebooks are ideal for students looking to hone their esports skills, offering powerful yet affordable devices that keep gamers highly competitive and able to play today’s latest AAA titles. The newest models include 15.6-inch or 17.3-inch 144Hz or 240Hz FHD IPS displays with 3ms response times, the latest NVIDIA GTX or RTX GPUs (overclockable for increased performance) and 10th Gen Intel Core H series processors. Of particular note are two key features that resonate with gamers the most -- the high performance graphics card options and fast displays. Our judges said: “To pack that much power and acceleration into a laptop form factor for gaming is remarkable and is exactly what esports gamers need. I want one of these machines!” 

AVer USA: AVer M11-8M Document Camera

The AVer M11-8M is the sleek and affordable document camera designed to meet the needs of changing learning environments. With HDMI and plug-and-play USB power and connectivity, the M11-8M is ready to share in the classroom or through many popular video conferencing platforms for distance learning. The M11-8M has a sleek vertical design with a mechanical arm that collapses to less than 12 inches by 5 inches to maximize space in the classroom or on a home desk. The smart swivel head provides 180-degree image rotation to capture objects from many angles. “For today's remote learning classrooms, the M11-8M has become an essential tool,” said our judges.

AVer TR530 Auto Tracking Distance Learning Camera 

The AVer TR530 creates a true in-class experience for remote students, providing real-time engagement with three auto-tracking modes for hands-free operation and a second panoramic camera that displays a static 120° field of view to effectively track a teacher throughout a room without a camera operator. Stage Tracking accommodates for extremely challenging conditions, such as low lighting or a camera that had to be installed far from the presenter area. Segment Tracking allows for particular areas or stations to automatically be set, such as an IFP, dry erase board, or document camera station. Our judges said, “This PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera brings an amazing tool into the hybrid classroom of today through its tracking capability, offering educators and students a full and complete picture of classroom events.” 

AVID Products, Inc.: AE36 Headset 

AVID’s AE-36 universally designed headset proves its success as an essential device by enhancing connections between students and educators at a valued price. Innovative design elements include lightweight and comfort for longer sessions, soft earpads to reduce passive noise and improve student concentration, omnidirectional boom microphone for clear recording of voice for testing results, chew resistant nylon cord and Velcro tie for storage, superior sound quality, easy to clean, durable, and Prop 65 and CE-certified for safety. “The Avid headsets are reliable and dependable while remaining comfortable,” said our judges. “We particularly like the flexibility of the hardware itself in being able to withstand whatever students put them through.” 

AVID AE55 Headset 

AVID’s AE-55 was developed for quality, value, and comfort and specifically the educational setting. Innovative design elements include lightweight and comfort for longer sessions, soft earpads to reduce passive noise and improve student concentration, noise-canceling 270° boom microphone for clear voice recording and testing results, chew resistant nylon cord and Velcro tie for storage, superior sound quality, easy to clean, durable, and Prop 65 and CE-certified for safety. “The Avid AE55 Headset has been reimagined and reengineered for the needs of 2020,” said our judges. “They come with a headphone jack model or a USB model for different uses according to the device they are connected to.” 

Boxlight: MimioConnect  

MimioConnect® combines innovative lesson building and instructional tools to create an active learning environment. Teachers and students can connect from anywhere making this a perfect solution for distance, flipped, or blended learning environments. Create a connected and collaborative experience by allowing students to share their work, and use instant polling to quickly assess student understanding and adjust instruction as needed. Materials can be made available before and self-paced assignments can be delivered directly following group instruction to reinforce skills and concepts. “Once a district has the compatible software, students will receive an interactive and engaging lesson every time,” our judges said.  

Boxlight: MyStemKits and Robo 3D 

MyStemKits is a K-12 standards-driven 3D printable curriculum with more than 300 lessons and 35 3D modeling design challenges, and fully integrates with Robo 3D printers as well as 75 other 3D printer brands. One-click printing makes it easy for educators without 3D printing knowledge or experience, and strengthens understanding of core math and science concepts by creating fun, interactive, and engaging kits. For example, using 3D-printed catapults integrates learning vital math concepts such as measurement and data analysis while enhancing the learning experience. “At this price point, the Robo E3 is all the printer a classroom will need,” said our judges. “And with cloud printing, you can set up the printer to be connected to wifi and you can send to the printer from anywhere in the school.”  

Boxlight: Learning Beyond Classroom – PD for Educators 

Boxlight-EOS Education has led the way for thousands of teachers with customized professional development services to integrate technology tools essential for teaching and learning. The Learning Beyond the Classroom course was developed to help teachers be equipped with all the skills, both practical and pedagogical, to effectively design learning that leverages G Suite for Education and 1:1 Chromebooks. Applying principles of blended learning in all levels of planning prepares teachers and students to engage in various learning environments as needed, with confidence and with as little interruption to the learning process as possible. Our judges simply said, “This has a lot to offer.” 

CatchOn: CatchOn 

With CatchOn’s comprehensive data analytics, education leaders can use student-level data to track, measure, and analyze digital engagement and personalize learning by seeing individual student profiles that identify what applications and tools each uses, how long they do so, and when. They can also ensure student data privacy compliance by categorizing applications as district-approved or not approved, and monitor the use of unknown applications. The platform helps to promote fiscal accountability by using software utilization data, and can inform PD by analyzing usage trends to identify training gaps and opportunities. 

“A tool very valuable for tech directors looking at ROI and engagement for digital tools,” said our judges.

ClassLink: ClassLink 

ClassLink helps districts move seamlessly between on-site and remote learning models. School leaders can rest assured everyone has consistent access to digital learning resources, so learning can continue from anywhere. Students can jump straight into learning with single sign-on access to a portal that contains all their digital resources, which reduces confusion. Using ClassLink Analytics, teachers and leaders can measure and track student engagement. Tech teams can even continue rostering and provisioning remotely, ensuring everyone in the district has access to critical learning tools. Our judges said, “With data privacy an ongoing challenge for district leaders, having a SSO product as robust as ClassLink has created protections for our students.”  

Clear Digital: Gel Digital Signage Sanitizer Station with Sho Software 

Clear Digital's Gel Digital Signage Sanitizer Station is the new breakthrough messaging system that is equally concerned with cleanliness as it is message delivery. This vivid 21.5-inch display has a touch-free dispenser that delivers up to 2.6 ml sanitizer doses. The ambient lighting on the front automatically turns from green to red to indicate when the sanitizer is low. Pair it with the Clear Digital Sho Content Player to remotely check sanitizer levels and usage of your Gel displays. Utilize the pre-made template packs or customize your own to push out to your devices anywhere in the world. “The combination of digital signage with a sanitizer station is a unique product just in time for today's unprecedented times,” said our judges. 

Clear Touch: 7043XE Interactive Panel with Mini Convertible Stand

The Clear Touch® 7043XE panel features an elegantly smooth, capacitive touch screen with Android 8, and is easily paired with the Clear Touch® mini convertible stand. The panel can be easily adjusted from presentation mode to tabletop mode with anti-collision function so students stay safe, perfect for early learners. When paired with NUITEQ's Snowflake software, the screen can be split into four different zones, ideal for multiple students to collaborate. Multiple media can easily be added and the display can be used for storytime to annotate over key vocabulary. “This product goes beyond an interactive smartboard or smart projector with its android interaction and pc options,” said our judges. “The convertible stand is enticing as it can be used horizontally or vertically for interactive activities.” 

CTL: CTL Chromebook NL81T

Whether working from home, the classroom, or workplace, the CTL NL81T Chromebook gives students consistent, high-quality graphics for streaming media and helps them to work smarter, not harder. Designed with the modern workforce in mind, the NL81T has a large 14-inch 1920x1080p Full High Definition 10-point multitouch screen. It also features an Intel Pentium N5030 Processor, a water-resistant keyboard, and anti-peel keys. The IP-rated, drop-resistant design and non-slip texture is built to last, and with 12 hours of battery life, an HD camera, HDMI ports, and USB-C quick charge, users can stay connected and productive all day. “A rugged chromebook that is an asset in any location,” said our judges.  

CTL: Logitech Small Room Solution for Google Meet 

Easily transform classrooms into video collaboration spaces. The Logitech Small Room Solution for Google Meet includes everything teachers need to provide engaging distance learning from a classroom or their home. Featuring all-in-one video and audio, including Ultra-HD imaging, three integrated beam-forming microphones, and echo-cancelling speakers, MeetUp delivers crisp, clear video and unmatched audio clarity. Packed with 32GB RAM and 128GB SSD, the CTL Meet Compute Chromebox includes an Intel Core i7 Processor for dependable streaming. Our judges said, “This will increase connections and focus on content, not waste time on technology.” 

Curriculum Associates: i-Ready 

i-Ready makes the promise of differentiated instruction a practical reality for K-12 by combining powerful assessments and rich insights with effective and engaging instruction in reading and mathematics. The Diagnostic provides actionable criterion-referenced and normative data to facilitate delivery of impactful, equitable learning experiences. Teachers administer it at the beginning of the school year to help chart instruction and to set personalized instruction paths. Mid-year and end-of-year diagnostics help students and teachers have data chats to set goals and track growth. “With all the data-driven decisions, this tool gives actual real-time solutions and information,” said our judges. “An all-in-one data platform.”  

Forward Edge: Edge•U Badges 

Edge•U is an instruction-focused professional learning system that adapts to the needs of educators. Teacher capacity is built by offering concise, just-in-time learning to support educators with the challenges they face every day, particularly in utilizing necessary tools for learning. Edge•U received the ISTE Seal of Alignment for the Educator Standards in February 2020. The solution has shown to consciously, purposefully, and meaningfully support best practices for digital age teaching and learning. “An amazing platform for educators to become trained on a variety of technologies and tools,” said one judge. “Having created a platform for similar uses in my own district, I greatly appreciate the attention to detail.” 

Gale, A Cengage Company: Gale In Context: For Educators Learning Center 

Gale In Context: For Educators is a lesson planning tool that enables all educators to find and personalize digital learning content, plan learning activities that work well for remote or in-person environments, and provide equity for all students. Its new Learning Center is a professional learning hub that’s the base of operations for finding, organizing, and learning how to teach (virtually or in-person). Teachers can access how-tos, such as a step-by-step “Build and Teach a Lesson” walk-through, sample content sets, and watch on-demand content videos. “Solving one of the challenges that school districts face in the new learning environments, this product provides the professional learning solutions that educators are looking for,” said our judges.  

HoverCam: Solo 8 Plus 

The portable, compact HoverCam Solo 8Plus is an intuitive document camera for blended learning. Compatible with Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Skype, it gives students a front row seat to learning. Simply plug the USB into a PC, Chromebook, or Mac--no power adapter is required. The embedded Flex 11 software delivers immersive and dynamic lessons with picture-in-picture, annotation, digital whiteboard, lesson recording, and more. “This product has taken document cameras into the virtual learning world,” said our judges. “With its interaction with web conferencing platforms, teachers can seamlessly share resources, demonstrate lessons and conduct experiments. It is a mobile product for today's learning environments.” 

HoverCam: eGlass 

HoverCam’s eGlass is a fully integrated illuminated writing glass, developed in partnership with Learning Glass. The innovative, all-in-one, transparent writing surface features a built-in camera and adjustable lighting, ideal for remote, hybrid, and traditional classrooms. The camera captures the instructor and whatever they write on the surface of the glass simultaneously, and eGlass automatically flips the writing for students to read. Available in 35-inch and 50-inch models, its intuitive software is compatible with popular remote conferencing programs. Teachers can also drag PNG images, documents, and videos onto the screen and annotate them for dynamic presentations. One of our judges said, “The built-in software tools and lighting are amazing--I want one of these systems now! This is probably the best educational tool to come out of Covid-19 times.”

Incident IQ: Incident IQ 

Incident IQ is a technology support platform built exclusively to help K-12 IT teams effectively manage educational technology. Features include help ticketing and asset management tools, asset tracking tools to get devices quickly assigned and managed, and a step-by-step Ticket Wizard for easy submission of help requests. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Incident IQ has added tools for distance learning support, including Remote Support Ticketing—a public-facing help desk that's available to everyone in a district community. “Incident IQ has thought of everything when it comes to customer support and IT asset management,” said our judges. “We especially liked the ease of instant remote desktop assistance right from the help-ticket.” 

LearnPlatform: IMPACT 

LearnPlatform's IMPACT™ equips educators to conduct practical, on-demand, evidence-based edtech evaluations, providing critical insight to improve implementation, guide professional development, increase purchasing power, inform budgets, and drive better outcomes for all students. With IMPACT, district administrators can analyze depth of usage and outcomes across district-defined student groups, such as school site, grade level, race/ethnicity, and free/reduced lunch to surface equity gaps. Based on results, they can inform and implement changes, and then monitor their effectiveness over time. Our judges were impressed by IMPACT’s ability to drill down and collect data based on various conditions and demographics to make important decisions. 

Mackin: MackinVIA 

MackinVIA is a free digital content management system that provides schools, students, and educators with easy access to their collections of ebooks, read-alongs, audiobooks, databases, and videos. With one login, users can view and manage all of the school’s digital resources through any desktop, laptop, or mobile device, anywhere, any time. MackinVIA also provides access to nearly 3 million vetted digital resources, including interactive ebooks that integrate video, audio, animation, and activities. Mackin Read-Alongs™ are enhanced with embedded audio and highlighted words, and are synched for auto page-turning. Our judges appreciated that students and teachers can access their curriculum whether in person or virtually. 

MAXCases: Extreme Shell-S Custom-Fit Case for Chromebooks and Laptops 

Featuring a one-piece design that wraps securely around the device, the Extreme Shell-S case delivers substantial, 360-degree protective coverage. The unique MAXGrip™360 spine is textured to provide a firm grip while safeguarding the device hinge area. Additional protection includes rigid top and bottom panels made of compound polycarbonate, thermoplastic, and polyurethane that protect against scratches, dirt, and impact damage. A full-surround TPU bumper with enhanced corners that extend over the bottom of the case when closed protects the areas most vulnerable to drops – the device corners. The IT-friendly design offers easy, one-piece installation and clear panels for asset tag visibility. “A sturdy cover that will support the life of digital tools,” said our judges. 

Mentoring Minds: Mentoring Minds Resource Library 

The Mentoring Minds Resource Library features more than $2,000 worth of content from award-winning educator resources—priced at just $2.99/mo or $29.99/yr. The app, divided into eight modules (such as critical thinking, vocabulary, and social-emotional learning), provides educators with convenient access to best practices and strategies that support instruction and promote student success. Targeted resources are suggested for ELA, math, and science, both at the elementary and secondary levels. Support videos feature in-house educators who teach how to deliver effective instruction, promote standards mastery, and enhance critical thinking. This tool also features printable graphic organizers, our judges noted.

Promethean: ActivPanel 

ActivPanel Element Series, the latest generation from Promethean, is a flexible, comprehensive solution used in hybrid learning environments. It continues the company’s tradition of having the most innovative technologies designed for teachers, by teachers, to support schools as they go through this adjustment period. The all-in-one solution enables educators to deliver engaging, collaborative lessons using Promethean’s education software, while ActivPanel helps ensure the same high-quality educational experiences for students. “Promethean is a leader in the interactive panel world,” our judges said. “It continues to evolve to meet the needs for schools as they migrate to new learning environments.” 

Reading Plus: Reading Plus 

Reading Plus is a research-proven personalized intervention and instruction program that improves comprehension, vocabulary, motivation, and reading efficiency--it is the only adaptive intervention that addresses inefficient reading. Reading Plus begins with an online assessment that provides baseline data to provide a clear picture of every student as a reader. Students are placed on personalized learning paths, working in the reading, writing, vocabulary and visual skills components. The program uses formative data from each student to continually adapt instruction, and provide teachers with actionable reports and resources for additional instruction. Our judges were particularly impressed with how this reading intervention program identifies, addresses, and provides interventions for struggling inefficient readers. 

Renaissance: myON 

myON is a digital reading platform that provides students with 24/7 access to thousands of fiction and nonfiction books and news articles—in English, Spanish, and additional languages. A multimedia reading experience with colorful illustrations, professionally recorded audio, and annotation tools makes each text engaging and unique. Built-in close reading tools, customizable literacy projects, and a large collection of nonfiction titles support lesson plans centered on reading and writing skills. Daily news articles enrich content-area classes and bring more opportunities for reading into the school day. Our judges really appreciated the solisearch feature that helps kids choose books they like. 

Renaissance: Accelerated Reader

Accelerated Reader is an independent reading practice program that helps K-12 students to become confident, lifelong readers. Supporting more than 200,000 fiction and nonfiction books and articles at a wide range of levels, Accelerated Reader gives students extensive choice in what they read—and keeps them engaged in independent reading practice as they work toward their own goals. An article collection provides additional opportunities for daily nonfiction reading, while in-depth reporting supports teacher-student conversations about reading time, comprehension, and growth. “Most of our students enjoy using Accelerated Reader, and it definitely helps with their reading progress and comprehension,” said our judges. 

Renaissance: Star Assessments

Star Assessments are a suite of valid, reliable assessments for reading, math, and early literacy, in both English and Spanish. Trusted by more than 30,000 schools and highly rated by the National Center on Intensive Intervention, Star Assessments enable educators to quickly gain accurate insights into student learning, growth, and achievement so they can help all learners reach their full potential. The full suite includes the computer-adaptive Star Reading (K-12), Star Math (1-12), and Star Early Literacy (K-3) assessments, along with a formative assessment tool, Star Custom (K-12). Our judges said, “The power of the tool is in the reports and then the suggested lessons from the results.”

Securly: At-Risk 

By studying a student’s online footprint, At-Risk finds enough credible evidence to raise an alert. It follows the same three-tiered format of the RtI/MTSS intervention model, based on academic achievement, behavior, or both, and places students into three color-coded categories based on history and online activity. If the dashboard shows students moving between tiers, it can indicate declines in overall happiness, social connections, or self-worth. This insight allows schools to provide support at the right time to bring students back to low risk. Our judges were impressed by how this product analyzes student activity over time as opposed to single incidents, which can lead to early interventions. 

Sourcewell Technology: Spring Math

Spring Math is a complete MTSS system for math. In addition to assessments, it provides a proven supplement to any curriculum in the form of class-wide interventions that are teacher-led and follow a peer-tutoring format. It can be implemented face-to-face or virtually using any app. The data-driven instructional and coaching system also identifies students needing additional instruction and provides individual interventions at their specific level of need. Assessments are dynamically generated, and intervention materials are provided for individual, small group, and whole group work. Educators can review weekly mastery level progress and access a coaching dashboard with metrics on progress and implementation. “This program is a great solution for educators, math coaches and interventions as they support math learners,” said our judges.

Turnitin: Turnitin Draft Coach 

Turnitin Draft Coach is a Google Docs™ add-on that helps students improve on the mechanics of their academic writing and research, as well as their citation skills before they turn their final paper into their instructor. Draft Coach gives supportive formative feedback to students while they write. Students can run similarity checks and make corrections to how they have cited sources and quoted other content before they submit their final version to their instructor. Draft Coach is also a resource for teachers, giving them deeper insight into student learning and while encouraging and supporting more independent, confident writers. “We can see where this helps students improve their academic writing and research skills while providing instructors with additional insight into student learning,” said our judges. 

Vernier Software & Technology: Vernier Graphical Analysis™ Pro

Vernier Graphical Analysis™ Pro meets the needs of today’s science educators. The enhanced app lets users easily insert, view, and sync a video to sensor data for analysis, and features the ability to perform live experiments and share data over the internet in real time. Students can experience real experiments, analyze and graph data, helping them connect abstract concepts to real-world applications. It includes videos with sample experiments synced with data and complete instructions that cover common topics in biology, chemistry, and physics. The app is compatible with most devices used in schools, including Chromebooks. “The versatility of this science program brings learning to a new level,” said our judges. 

Vivacity Tech: Sidekick Carrier 

Vivacity Tech Sidekick Carrier case safeguards Chromebooks with the perfect balance of protection and size, combining non-rip, water-resistant ballistic nylon with multiple high-density layers for protection. The outside pocket bolsters a modular elastic band for neatly storing essential accessories and includes a mesh pocket for power adapters. The Sidekick Carrier is a successful academic solution for teachers and students alike. Our judges said, “It offers a plethora of protection points for Chromebooks and the accessory pockets make it the best choice for protecting a fleet of chromebooks for transporting your chromebooks to and from school.”

Vivacity Tech: Customer Central 

Customer Central is the first free asset management system of its kind, allowing districts to manage IT assets, submit device repair requests, help operate a student-led repair center for 1:1 deployments, and train repair technicians. It is complete with budget allocation reporting and shipment tracking, and provides visibility into the repair process every step of the way. With Customer Central, school districts can manage their IT assets from anywhere. “The Vivacity Customer Central solution is an amazing asset management system that is cloud-based and makes it easy for both the administrators of the system as well as the end-users to keep track of their support needs,” said our judges. 

Voyager Sopris Learning: LETRS 

LETRS is a blended PD course that provides educators with the background, depth of knowledge, and tools to teach language and literacy skills to every student. Created by Dr. Louisa Moats, it features videos, allowing teachers to easily apply their learning to the classroom, and addresses the structures of English, the cognitive processes of learning to read, and the teaching practices proven to be effective in preventing and remediating reading difficulties, including dyslexia. The judges were impressed by the blended learning system that focuses on modeling best practices. 

Voyager Sopris Learning: Reading Rangers 

Reading Rangers is meaningful online reading practice, filled with engaging experiences that help build foundational skills and improve reading fluency and comprehension. Designed for K-5, it can be used in any learning environment — remote, in-person and hybrid learning environments. Engaging experiences provide students with valuable practice while improving reading fluency, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary. For teachers, Reading Rangers offers data that provides insight to assess how students are performing. Our judges said, “This product provides a fun, gamified approach for students to engage in learning ELA.”

ViewSonic Corp: ELITE XG270 Gaming Monitor 

The ViewSonic ELITE™ XG270 is a 27-inch IPS gaming monitor that delivers performance and functionality for school esports and gaming environments. It features an ultra-fast 1ms (GtG) response time and a 240Hz refresh rate for smooth screen transitions and accurate color reproduction, as well as native 1080p resolution and 99 percent sRGB color coverage to ensure stunning image quality. The monitor is certified G-SYNC compatible that reduces tearing, while VESA Adaptive Sync technology provides interoperability of variable refresh rate capabilities. Dynamic RGB lighting offers illumination and can sync with other RGB peripherals for a complete gaming ecosystem. “This gaming monitor shines above others of this size thanks to it's 240Hz refresh rate, which is one of the first to offer that rate in this size and for this price,” said our judges.

ViewSonic Corp: TD1655 Portable Touchscreen Monitor 

The ViewSonic® TD1655 is a 15.6-inch portable touchscreen monitor that can be paired with laptops and tablets as a secondary screen in a classroom. With a 10-point projective capacitive touchscreen, it offers a smooth and natural writing/drawing experience with fingers or stylus. The bezel-less design ensures screen space for content sharing and can be used to set up multi-monitor-based stations. It comes with two USB Type-C ports for quick and easy transmission of video, audio, and data, and is less than an inch thick and weighs less than two pounds. A built-in stand allows the screen to be oriented in various modes, and a Blue Light Filter helps eliminate eye strain. “Not only is it priced right, but it offers a wonderful functionality to laptops or desktop computers by bringing the power of touch and additional viewing real estate,” said our judges.

WeVideo: WeVideo for Schools 

WeVideo provides an easy-to-use and flexible multimedia creation solution for all classroom-use cases, and is designed to scale from a single classroom to a full district. WeVideo’s multimedia creation tools work on any device; the streamlined video editor offers real-time collaborative editing, and is easy to use. The mobile apps, combined with the safe and secure browser app, helps schools offer equal access to educational technology for all students. Our judges said, “It's easy and safe to use, and empowers interaction and collaboration between students and teachers.” 

WINNERS: Best of 2020 

 Apex Learning: Courses 

Teachers can count on having robust content and delivery with Apex Learning Courses so they can focus on teaching and building relationships with students and spend less time trying to figure out technology. Apex Learning Courses provide districts with a way to hold students accountable for their learning, whether in-person or learning from home. Students can access Apex whenever and however it’s most convenient, and parents can see the instructional portal to track their student’s program in addition to assessments, enabling families to become more involved in the process. “This is a comprehensive online curriculum for high school students,” our judges said. 

Discovery Education: Discovery Education Experience 

Discovery Education Experience is a flexible K-12 learning platform that connects educators to high-quality, standards-aligned content, ready-to-use digital lessons, and professional learning resources. These resources, sourced from trusted partners, are aligned to state and national standards, and help educators bring the outside world into teaching and learning every day. It is designed to work within school systems’ existing infrastructure and workflows, and thanks to multiple partnerships, can be easily integrated into existing IT architecture. “This product offers seamless opportunities for learning,” said our judges. “Discovery Education continues to provide current and relevant content for classroom teachers.”

Edmentum: Edmentum Courseware 

Edmentum Courseware provides more than 400 state and national standards-aligned online courses for grades 6-12 in core subjects as well as electives, CTE, and world languages. Courseware’s flexibility and quality make it compatible with in-person, blended, and virtual instruction, allowing schools and districts to move from one modality to another. It offers a sleek platform, intuitive data dashboards, courses that can be modified, PD options, and reports to make it easy for educators to manage classes and track performance and progress. Our judges said, “Whether based on mastery of skills, learning interests or access to advanced course offering, this product is a one-stop shop for school districts.”

Edmentum: Exact Path

Exact Path supports continuity of learning in fully virtual, hybrid, or brick-and-mortar environments. Specifically, it personalizes learning by combining adaptive diagnostic assessments with individualized learning paths for K-12 students in math, reading, and language arts. The program supports targeted intervention within a district’s or state’s mandated program, and allows educators to diagnose needs with a valid adaptive assessment. Educators can target unique learner needs and plan intervention with digital assignments, and analyze growth, progress, and usage via data visualizations and reports. Our judges were impressed by the vast array of tools this program offers, particularly for struggling students.

IXL Learning: IXL Learning 

IXL is a personalized learning platform proven to enhance learning outcomes for grades pre-K through 12. With a comprehensive curriculum of more than 8,500 skills covering five subjects and fully aligned to all state standards with 40 popular textbook series, it can support nearly any lesson. The adaptive assessment tool, the Real-Time Diagnostic, evaluates students across every concept, providing an accurate portrait of students' knowledge levels in math and language arts, and helps to shape a personalized action plan for every learner. In addition, easy-to-use reports give real-time insight into student progress. “IXL continues to be a leading standard for standards-based curriculum and assessments,” said our judges 

Lightspeed Systems: Lightspeed Analytics 

Lightspeed Analytics allows school administrators to track and measure student engagement by identifying how, when, and how frequently applications are being used. Customizable dashboards allow users to see specific student activity by week or day, so they can get real-time, actionable insights into a districts’ online learning plan. By identifying redundant or unused licenses, district leaders can drive ROI and budget optimization, and customize a learning plan that works. “Data usage can drive innovation, long-term planning and purchases,” our judges said. “It is evident that this product can provide critical information for district leaders.”

OrCam Technologies: OrCam Read 

OrCam Read is a new, AI-driven assistive reading technology designed for students with language processing disorders, including dyslexia. It captures complete pages or screens, reading the full, long-form text – in real time – to support reading fluency and long-term literacy development. A pen-sized precision laser guides the reader's tiny smart camera to capture text, convert it to audio, and read aloud from any print or digital surface. The interactive “Smart Reading” feature allows students to target specific text by using voice commands, such as “read headlines” or “find” a specific word within a text. One judge said, “I really like the blue-tooth use for broadcasting the read-aloud feature to headphones or other devices.”

Pixton Comics: Pixton EDU 

Pixton EDU is a web-app that gives teachers and students a unique way to create stories, demonstrate learning, and enhance writing assignments – in any subject – through digital comics. Users can explore any other subject and choose images from popular content, ranging from The Hunger Games to the solar system to black history, all Common Core aligned. No drawing skills are required, with hundreds of preset characters, backgrounds, outfits, poses, and even emotions available. “The PixtonEDU app is a wonderfully, creative way for students to demonstrate their comprehension and understanding of their reading,” said one judge. “I really wish this option was around when I was kid in place of the traditional book report!”

PowerSchool: PowerSchool Performance Matters  

PowerSchool Performance Matters gives a complete view of what’s happening academically within every classroom and school, allowing educators to identify trends and take meaningful actions to improve success. Users can easily generate local assessment data (from pre-made items and assessments or by creating their own), collect SEL survey data, import state assessment data, and more. The Assessment tool provides access to student data while Analytics offers real-time data to support educator and student improvements in school districts. “This is a valuable tool for supporting the whole child,” said our judges.

PowerSchool: Schoology, a PowerSchool Unified Classroom Product 

Schoology Learning allows educators to deliver engaging, personalized learning experiences to their students. The platform can be accessed anywhere, anytime, and combines everything needed for teaching and learning into one place – a one-stop-shop for students, parents, teachers and administrators. It is a scalable district-wide solution that tracks student mastery of learning objectives aligned to curriculum, promotes staff collaboration through configurable groups, allows for organization-wide communication to the home, and ensures customizable user roles and permissions. Our judges were impressed with the seamless interoperability between all the systems. 

PowerSchool: PowerSchool Unified Talent

PowerSchool Unified Talent is a virtual talent management solution that enables HR administrators to operate more efficiently and educators to be trained and supported. If offers the end-to-end tools HR needs to run smoothly so educators can best support student success, including a full suite of recruiting and hiring tools, such as candidate assessment, which includes a pre-hiring assessment built with predictive success indicators. Onboarding and other processes can be run fully online and completed with e-signatures. It also offers tools for training, evaluations, surveys, and a library of ready-made PD. “The onboarding tools are valuable for both time-saving and efficiency,” said our judges. 

PresenceLearning: Therapy Essentials 

Therapy Essentials allows districts to train and support school-based teams in serving students with special needs remotely. The proprietary, award-winning FERPA and HIPPA compliant platform, includes online self-guided modules, live training sessions, and ongoing live online workshops. School-based clinicians can stay connected with, and provide services to, their students at home without interruption. 

Our judges said, “In response to special needs students needing to maintain their much needed services, Therapy Essentials fills the gaps that this pandemic has created and allows both students and parents access to the mandatory services provided by their school systems.”

Rosetta Stone: Rosetta Stone English 

Rosetta Stone® English for grades K-6 is an adaptive blended learning program that supports students’ English language development through academic conversations. Combining the language and literacy expertise of Rosetta Stone and Lexia Learning, the program blends language learning with subject knowledge to support academic achievement. With embedded alignment with multiple state and national language proficiency standards, Rosetta Stone English focuses on three key areas — speaking, listening, and grammar. Assessment Without Testing® technology gathers and analyzes actionable, real-time progress monitoring data. Our judges especially liked how students can learn at their own pace in culturally responsive environments. 

Savvas Learning Company: Experience Chemistry 

Experience Chemistry™ is a phenomena-based high school program that gets students to investigate real, compelling observances in the natural world through the science of doing. This brand-new curriculum focuses on the student experience and takes a new approach to teaching chemistry, in the classroom or remotely. It gives teachers the flexibility to teach chemistry from anywhere, with state-of-the-art lab experiments for classroom use and virtual labs for online. Engaging, interactives include a Student Experience Notebook eText, animations, and Virtual Reality 360º Lab Simulations. Our judges appreciated how this product provides opportunities for virtual labs, collaboration and student-centered activities. 

SMART Technologies: SMART Learning Suite 

SMART Learning Suite is web-based software that allows users to create lessons for students to interact with through their devices, in class, remotely, or on their own time. It’s a flexible tool that supports active learning and collaboration, and allows users to import their own lessons and enhance them with engaging, customizable components, such as games, activities, and collaborative workspaces. “Big jump for SMART,” said one judge. “I see how it enriches student-led learning, project-based learning, and flipped classroom experiences.” 

Super Duper Publications: Super Duper Digital Library 

The Super Duper Digital Library provides online access to hundreds of standards-based learning resources with tens of thousands of activities for students in grades PreK-5, and in particular autistic children and those with special needs. It supports multiple skills dealing with language acquisition, memory, literacy, reading, and social-emotional learning. The Library provides access to Super Duper’s popular print materials and seasonal games, such as “Hispanic Heritage,” “Black History Month,” and “Spring into Speech and Language.” The games can be used in concert with hundreds of card decks targeting specific skills. “We really like the way they have adapted their materials for distance learning and web-based, interactive versatility, which is especially important for these types of students they serve,” said our judges.

Tools for Schools: Book Creator 

Book Creator is a simple tool for creating digital books to infuse creativity throughout a curriculum, motivating students to become published authors and helping them develop future-ready skills. Teachers can even create their own resources, and more than 2 million books are made each month. The intuitive interface allows students as young as 4 to add text, images, drawings, video, maps, or even record their voice, and it is versatile enough to be used in any subject to demonstrate understanding, promote collaboration, and prioritize creativity over consumption. “As a curriculum director I absolutely love Book Creator,” said one judge. “Our students are so engaged with their learning when they are working with it and their work always astounds me at what they're capable of doing.” 

Where do you go when you want to learn about new EdTech tools? From checking out new blog posts (like this one!) to searching hashtags on social media, there are lots of ways to learn about new EdTech tools. When I attend a conference, I also stay on the lookout for companies that have just come on the scene. This way, I can connect with them, ask them questions, and see if their booth is “buzzing” with excitement from other educators, too.

If you follow along on Instagram, then you already know that I spent last week at the FETC Conference in Miami. This trip was my fifth time at this event and third as a featured speaker. In between leading workshops and sessions, I was able to get down to the Expo Hall and learn about some new EdTech tools.

New EdTech Tools

In this blog post, I want to take you through a few new EdTech tools worth exploring this year. A few of these companies were totally new to me, and several were part of the Startup Pavilion. If there is a new EdTech tool that has you excited, share on social and tag @classtechtips.

Coding for Kids

The first on the list is Matatalab, a coding kit for kids that I had the chance to see in action. It provides a hands-on opportunity for students to explore coding principles. The coding set gives students access to a mat and pieces to move into a pattern.

At FETC this year, I tried out Matatalab’s coding kit and was very impressed. They also have a musical component that you might want to explore, too. Above you’ll find a picture I snapped after chatting with one of their team members.

Little Genius Starter Kit

I’m a big fan of Osmo and have seen their apps and tools in action in classrooms across the country. At the FETC conference, I spent some time exploring their “new to me” Little Genius Starter Kit.

The quick video below gives you a sense of what it looks like in action. If this video piques your interest, I definitely encourage you to take a closer look at their website. The Little Genius Starter Kit includes four different options, including skill building practice with storytelling and letter recognition.

FETC Startup Pavilion

One thing I love about walking around the Expo Hall floor is checking out up-and-coming EdTech companies. The Startup Pavilion at FETC was full of new companies and new EdTech tools. I want to spotlight five of the more than a dozen companies and tools featured in the Startup Pavilion this year. I’ll give you a quick overview and share one reason why it grabbed my attention.

Sketch Comedy SAT Videos

If you’re looking for a new way for students to prepare for the ACT or SAT exams, you’ll want to check out Prepmedians. This website is full of engaging, sketch comedy-inspired videos to help students get ready to take these exams. Full disclosure — I’ve met their enthusiastic founder before and went to high school with his brother, but didn’t know about this awesome endeavor until I came across it on the list of startups at this year’s pavilion.

This EdTech tool grabbed my attention because… I love engaging videos that communicate information in a new way, and this definitely fits that description.

Interactive Reading Library

As you can see in the video below, Kidint is all about storytelling. It gives users access to hundreds of books and encourages reading together as a family. It works on a variety of devices and lets new users try it out for free for a full month. I like how families can set up profiles for their children and how it awards badges, too.

This EdTech tool grabbed my attention because… I’m always looking for apps and websites that promote joint media engagement.

Use this link to download my free guide with more reading and writing EdTech tool recommendations.

Video Playlists

If you listen to my Easy EdTech Podcast, you know that I love videos and even have an episode all about creating video playlists in the classroom. Well, Vubble is an EdTech tool designed to create video feeds for students with high-quality content. They’ve partnered with a bunch of notable folks already, including Pearson and the Canadian Film Centre.

This EdTech tool grabbed my attention because… video is a powerful way to communicate information, and the more we can make sure this happens in a high-quality way, the better.

Interactive Math Game for Kids

Boddle is an interactive math game for students in elementary school. It’s an adaptive learning platform and provides content tailored to the needs of individual students in your class. With standards connections and assessments for a variety of math skills, Boddle is worth checking out.

This EdTech tool grabbed my attention because… of the combination of differentiated resources and gamified learning for math.

Digital Reading Platform

Glose is a reading platform that gives students and teachers access to hundreds of books — for free. Students can customize the reading interface, and teachers can monitor student progress. It creates a social network so students can talk about what they’re reading and connect with others. 

This EdTech tool grabbed my attention because… Glose has both a free and paid version meaning you can jump into this ebook library right away.

cross posted at classtechtips.com

Dr. Monica Burns is a former classroom teacher, Speaker, and Curriculum & EdTech Consultant. She is the author of Tasks Before Apps (ASCD) and #FormativeTech (Corwin). Visit Monica's site ClassTechTips.com for more ideas on how to become a tech-savvy teacher.

Thirteen products have earned the Research-Based Design product certification from Digital Promise. The new product certification is intended to serve as a signal for consumers, including school administrators, educators, and families, looking for evidence of research-based educational technology products.  

The following 13 product companies, each of which submitted evidence confirming a link between research on how students learn and their product’s design, are the first to receive the Research-Based Design product certification: 

• Actively Learn 
• Amplify 
• BrainQuake’s Wuzzit Trouble 
• Cignition ● CommonLit 
• The Concord Consortium's CODAP 
• Goalbook ● Lexia Core5 Reading 
• Microsoft's Immersive Reader 
• Newsela 
• Speak Agent 
• ST Math 
• Woot Math 

Future brands Tech & Learning, TechRadarPro, and AV Technology Europe, have released the FIRST exclusive co-branded Bett Preview Guide that offers a sneak peek at some of the most anticipated product announcements being exhibited at Bett, the new tech being premiered at the world's largest Edtech trade show!

This Guide offers exclusive interviews with keynote speakers and select exhibitors, insight into the latest trends in education technology, the best new laptops and Chromebooks recommended by our TechRadarPro experts, new edtech being shown for the first time at Bett, and MUCH MORE!

To view or download the guide, visit https://issuu.com/futurepublishing/docs/bett_digital_preview_guide

With FETC ending later today, it’s a good time to take stock of some of the more innovative and notable things we saw at the show. From security to programming, there was a lot to see but here are a few of our favorites from the show floor.

Color-Coded Coding

Ozobot’s Evo takes robotic coding classes to a new level with a color-coded scheme that makes learning programming easier and more intuitive for students from kindergarteners to high school seniors. The classroom kit will be available later this month and include everything needed for students to learn how to program the small spherical Evo robot to perform a series of maneuvers and tricks. The company has more than 150 online lessons and the classroom kit costs $1,800 (for 18 students) or $1,200 (for 12 students).

One-Shot Sign-In

Nothing slows a class down more than stopping to sign into yet another online curriculum site, but students and teachers can now get to the Kami Acrobat reader and annotation tool via an Office log in. The new app can not only synchronize documents, but Kami files can be stored on Microsoft’s OneDrive online repository.

Protecting G Suite

Google’s G Suite of apps is a great – and cheap – way to get high-quality collaborative programs in the hands of students and teachers, but for schools that want extra layer of online security, there’s Managed Methods. The company’s cloud-based package not only monitors all G Suite accounts and blocks inappropriate online material, but can stop data loss and prevent phishing attempts, malware exploits and account takeovers.

Bright Light, Low Price

By concentrating on the basics, Epson’s PowerLite 118 model will be high on brightness and low on price. Its three LCD panel design can deliver 3,800 lumens and include an excellent assortment of connection ports. Happily, it works with Epson’s iProjection app so that 50 classroom computers can share their screens with the class.  

Book Talk

In addition to the ability to add video clips, stickers and make text pop on the page, the latest version of Book Creator adds a new voice feature. This allows kids to speak their story right into a computer’s microphone and have it show up on-screen in any of 120 supported languages. In addition to school pricing plans, the software costs $60 a year (for up to 180 books) or $120 a year (for up to 1,000 books).

Sensing a Safer School

In an attempt to create a safer school environment, Rhombus Systems software will go beyond video surveillance to integrate the output of a series of new sensors. The cloud-based service will not only look at asset tags, but door sensors as well as the company’s environmental gauge for temperature and humidity.

Safety in the Cloud

Using Amazon Web Services’ online artificial intelligence engine, the new Safety Cloud from Kokomo 24/7 Solutions seeks to end bullying, disruptive behavior and suicide at schools by surfacing the behavior before it becomes critical. The program can review and monitor up to eight years of data to provide predictive insight in identifying potential risks.

Up, Up and Away

Flinn Scientific’s new Drone app for WhiteBox Learning can not only teach middle- and high-school students about the dynamics of flight but lets them design, model and actually simulate flying it. If you want, these designs can be turned into full flying machines with parts from Flinn Scientific.

All-in-One Classroom Software

By bringing together software for classroom presentations with a powerful Learning Management System (LMS) HoverCam’s ClassFusion is trying to simplify teaching. It can not only work with multiple digital devices but can control the entire classroom’s learning landscape from creating lesson plans, whiteboarding and more than 4-million online lessons to calendars and online homework submission. Look for it later this year.

HoverCam will showcase its family of classroom learning technologies in booth 2425 at the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) 2020 in Miami. The company will demonstrate its Pilot X tablet-based digital teaching station, 16-megapixel Ultra 10 document camera, and ClassFusion, a comprehensive software platform for classroom management and presentation.

With the HoverCam Pilot X, teachers and presenters can work from an ergonomic and mobile teaching podium featuring a slide out keyboard. The 13-inch, 10-point-touch tablet can be unlocked and used anywhere in the classroom. With multi-touch technology, the tablet has the horsepower of Windows 10 OS combined with the intuitive hand gestures of a mobile device. 

The Ultra 10 document camera features a 7.1-inch capacitive touchscreen, true 4K HDMI output, a 16-megapixel sensor, and a powerful Android computer. The built-in multitouch viewing monitor allows educators to see exactly what their students see without having to turn their backs. Users can connect a display, IFP, or projector — via wired HDMI or a wireless 4K transmitter without a PC — to record lessons, capture images, and show live video.

HoverCam's ClassFusion is a comprehensive software platform designed for a fully digital classroom. Drawing from the feedback of a network of educators who beta tested the solution, ClassFusion fuses a classroom presentation system with a learning management system. It features dynamic lesson and notes capture; a lesson plan builder with access to a database of over 4 million resources matched to curriculum; teachers' calendars; space-saving, vector-based lesson recording to the cloud; enhanced whiteboarding with smart tools including handwriting and object recognition; online homework submission and student messaging; Hopscotch multisplit; and more.

More information on HoverCam and their full line of products is available hovercam.com.

The majority of our students use technology daily to learn and share their voice, creativity, ideas, and passion with the world! When we integrate technology effectively into the curriculum students discover how to use technology to problem solve, create, and better their future and world. Before students embark on any digital project, you need to find the right tools. Below are some websites, blogs, and Twitter accounts where you can find ways to integrate technology effectively using free web tools and apps.

Places to Find the Right Tool!

*Edshelf is an amazing search engine for teachers to find the right web tools and apps to meet their needs. Filter by price, platform, subject, age, and category. No registration is required, but if you register then you can save your favorite web tools and apps to a virtual shelf.

*Common Sense is also a search engine for education tools and apps with ratings and reviews.

*You can also check out the various tools and apps teachers have created in their Digital Bloom’s graphics. This post here has 20 of these visuals.

*In addition to doing a search for a type of project (comics, poster, games, infographics, Math, etc.) on TeacherRebootCamp or ShellyTerrell.com, you can search for teacher recommended web tools and apps on these blogs/websites/Twitter accounts:

• Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day
• Class Tech Tips
• Ditch That Textbook
• Free Tech for Teachers
• Nik Peachey
• Technology Tidbits

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is a Technology and Computer teacher, education consultant, and author of books including Hacking Digital Learning Strategies: 10 Ways to Launch EdTech Missions in Your Classroom. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

Many people ask me how I keep up with the latest technology trends and find so many free resources to share on Twitter (@ShellTerrell) and on this blog. Hashtags, text starting with a # sign (#word), are the key to discovering amazing education tools and apps and finding examples of how teachers use these tools with their students. Below are awesome hashtags to explore on Twitter related to education technology.

Top Education Technology #Hashtags

Just click on any of the hashtags to discover the latest resources on Twitter. You don’t need a Twitter account to explore the resources.

• #Edtech
• #Elearning
• #Edchat
• #Mlearning
• #STEM
• #STEAM
• #Coding
• #GsuiteEdu
• #GoogleEdu
• #AssitiveTech
• #Edtools
• #Edapps
• #AugmentedReality
• #VirtualReality
• #VR
• #AR

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is a Technology and Computer teacher, education consultant, and author of books including Hacking Digital Learning Strategies: 10 Ways to Launch EdTech Missions in Your Classroom. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

More important than the learning that transpires in our classrooms is the learning we inspire beyond our classroom walls. One way to motivate students to continue using the knowledge acquired in our classes is to set up a virtual learning community. The free web tools below help teachers create a safe online class where students can access learning materials, post their work, and comment on the works of others. These platforms are online and accessible 24 hours, 7 days a week on multiple devices (computers, tablets, mobile devices and Chromebooks). Virtual learning communities enable every student to share their thoughts, ideas, and creativity with their peers in multiple formats, such as text, video, audio, and embedded media. Students are motivated to share more when they see feedback from their classmates, teachers, and parents.

Collaborative Discussion Tools

Flipgrid is a video response tool and app designed for schools. Students contribute a short video response to a video discussion prompt posted and can respond to others. Students can decorate their selfie videos with stickers and quickly generate QR codes for others to scan and view their videos. Flipgrid has tons of other features students and teachers love, such as accessibility with the Immersive Reader tool and the ability to create Augmented Reality videos.

Parlay Ideas is a free platform where teachers create discussion prompts with embedded materials that students review, add a response, and respond to their peers’ ideas. The free version allows teachers to set up 6 roundtable discussions. What I love about this tool is the ability for teachers to quickly add content and questions suggested by the platform.

LinoIt and Padlet are favorites among teachers and students. Teachers create a web wall where they can post questions, pdfs, files, audio, video, and images for students to quickly access on any device by clicking a url or scanning a QR code. Students post a response with different colored sticky notes. Students can share videos, pdfs, text, photos, emojis, and images. Padlet allows a limited amount of walls with the free version.

NowComment is a free tool students and teachers register for to engage in rich discussion over any uploaded document. Any sentence, paragraph, image, or video can have multiple conversations.

Hypothes.is is a tool that requires a free registration. Students highlight and discuss parts of a website, respond to peers, and vote up peer responses they like.

Active Textbook is a free iOS, Google Play, and Microsoft app with a variety of features teachers can use to create an engaging reading experience. Teachers add interactive elements such as discussion threads to existing books or documents.

Backchannel Chat allows teachers to control all aspects of an online discussion, such as removing messages, preventing posts, or pacing the discussion. Students join with a code.

To thank you for your sharing, friendship and support over the years I am sharing free tips, learning resources, web tools and apps for 25 days in my Digital December STEM Advent Calendar.

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is a Technology and Computer teacher, education consultant, and author of books including Hacking Digital Learning Strategies: 10 Ways to Launch EdTech Missions in Your Classroom. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

When students design an infographic they visualize data and present their research in a dynamic way. They can use icons, charts, shapes, stylized fonts, borders, photos, and more to make data more engaging and understandable. Students can also tell a story with numbers. They are sharing with others their interpretation of statistics, queries, facts, and survey data to tell a bigger story. The web tools below will get you started with free templates students can quickly edit.

Tools for Creating Infographics

• Infogr.am is a simple web tool to design infographics from templates with graphs, charts, fonts, and more. The free plan allows 10 projects.
• Piktochart is a free web tool to design infographics with templates, graphs, charts, fonts, and more. The free plan allows 5 projects.
• Canva is a free web tool, iOS and Android app that allows the creation of several different digital products with templates, fonts, stock photos, icons, frames, and more. In addition to infographics, students can create magazines, flyers, greeting cards, and more.
• Genial.ly is a free web tool for creating infographics, interactive images, timelines, presentations, and more.
• Venngage is a great way to create infographics with some incredible templates students just click and edit. Access to clipart, etc. The free plan allows 5 projects.
• Visme allows you to create a few free infographics with cool transitions and effects. The free plan allows 5 projects.
• Check out this fantastic Google Draw template for creating infographics by John Calvert.
• Easel.ly is another web tool for creating infographics. The free plan allows 5 projects.

To thank you for your sharing, friendship and support over the years I am sharing free tips, learning resources, web tools and apps for 25 days in my Digital December STEM Advent Calendar.

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is a Technology and Computer teacher, education consultant, and author of books including Hacking Digital Learning Strategies: 10 Ways to Launch EdTech Missions in Your Classroom. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

On this blog I’ve shared thousands of web tools, apps, and resources that are free or offer a freemium option for teachers. However, I’ve been asked by several educators what recommendations I have for STEM labs, makerspaces, and technology classes. Below are six products that engage students, promote hands-on learning, and spark creativity. Also, students of all ages love learning science, math, engineering, and programming with these products. Most are reasonably priced for a kit that can be used by an entire class for several projects and lessons. The products are easy to manage, store, and work for K to 12 learners. These products also come with a great support team, support materials, lesson plans, and activities. Even if you are just a beginner these products are easy to learn and implement. These companies did not pay me or ask me to write about them. I just have tinkered with them and truly enjoyed these products.

• Best 3D Classroom Printers
• How It's Done: Remote STEM Learning
• Remote STEAM Learning with LEGO Education Bingo Boards

Recommended STEM Products

• littleBits– These kits come with electronic building blocks that are easy for students to put together and come up with so many different innovations and creations. Students start by coding simple circuits then are inspired to invent with open challenges. Teachers have access to a standards-aligned curriculum. Although the kits are recommended for grades 3 to 5, I’ve used them with 2nd graders and known teachers who use them with middle school students.
• Makey Makey-Makey Makey is an invention kit that inspires K to 12 students to transform everyday objects, like bananas and play dough, into awesome inventions. Students learn about coding, engineering, circuits, and more!
• Sam Labs– K to 5th grade students program the small bluetooth blocks (wheels, sensors, lights, switches, fans, etc.) from the STEM kit to invent and build so many different projects. I love the curriculum materials and resources that are standards-aligned and come with easy to edit and engaging warm-ups, assessments, and slides. The curriculum walks students and teachers through the entire process of programming and building and helps them learn the science, math, and concepts behind each project.
• Raspberry Pi– This is a low-cost, high-performance computer that students use to learn programming, solve problems, invent and innovate.
• LEGO Education– For decades LEGO has created products that inspire PreK to 12 students to build, imagine, and invent. Now students can program and animate what they build. LEGO has several competitions throughout the year to inspire learners of all ages to solve real-world problems with their inventions.
• Lulzbot Mini 3D printer- 3D printers can be very expensive. Some charge for their software or are expensive to fix. This 3D printer comes with free software and provides students and teachers with simple instructions on how to 3D print parts that break.
• Hello Ruby– Many makerspaces are in libraries. Hello Ruby is a series of books that helps students understand coding and programming. The books are translated in 24 languages. The website provides teachers and learners with engaging projects and activities.

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is a Technology and Computer teacher, education consultant, and author of books including Hacking Digital Learning Strategies: 10 Ways to Launch EdTech Missions in Your Classroom. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

Today is Halloween, traditional associated with “candy day” or “where’s the treats”. This is also associated with kids (unless you get that awesome neighbor handing out “adult” Jell-O shots during a candy visit). Well, how about some “treats” for teachers? We are all looking for strategies to increase student engagement, so today I thought to have my stop on the trick-or-treat trail be treats for student engagement.  I believe that high levels of student engagement are commonly believed to be critical to learning.  Student engagement implies both effective and behavioral participation in the learning experience (Marks, 2000).  Wang and Holcombe (2010) offer a more complex, yet similar definition of student engagement.  “We operationalize adolescents’ school engagement as school participation (behavioral engagement), school identification (emotional engagement), and use of self-regulation strategies (cognitive engagement)” (p.634).  In each case, the focus of the definition hinges on a level of student participation in the learning process.   The more students are engaged in their schoolwork, the more likely they are to perform well academically, obtaining higher grades in their classes and higher scores on standardized tests. Makes sense…RIGHT?

Some traits I feel are  common factors that impact student engagement are:

• Teacher and student Relationship and trust
• Relevance of the content
• Teacher Planning, Monitoring and Adjustments to Practice

I also do a lot of work focused on “active learning” and believe it is one of the foundations to academic achievement. By integrating technology in the classroom, educators can take learning experiences to the next level and significantly improve student performance.

So, enjoy these engagement treats and share some of your own by tweeting to @MatthewXJoseph

VoiceThread is a great tool for this. VoiceThread allows learners to speak and record what they have to say. For example, students can make math tutorials for one another explaining mathematical concepts and post them online.

AudioBoo is another tool for student to record their own voice and a tool teachers can record and share audio for students or anyone else.

Bubblr is a tool to create comic strips using photos. Just taking a sequence of pictures where you can add bubbles and create a story. Not actual voice, but voice expression in storytelling

Slidestory allows you to combine picture slide shows with voice narration. Each picture in a slide show has an accompanying voice narrated mp3 audio file, optional tags, and text caption. Isn’t this a very exciting way to make presentations and share them?

Screencast-o-matic is a powerful screen recorder that allows users to capture anything happening on their screen, as well as voice and video from the webcam for up to 15 minutes in the recorder’s free version. Regarding its pedagogical use, students can record their own videos describing how they solved a particular problem step-by-step (e.g. a trigonometry problem) or explaining their thinking process about the structure of an essay.

TopHat is an interactive, cloud-based tool that helps professors increase classroom engagement and create an interactive learning environment while gaining real-time feedback on their students’ understanding. Instructors can prepare lecture slides and enrich them with some really interesting and interactive features, from launching questions to receiving real-time student feedback. The platform offers an easy interface for managing a classroom – you can quickly take attendance, automate your grading process, and poll students, all in one place.

This kind of interactive approach can be used in many contexts. Top Hat works for just about every subject. The functionalities of Top Hat allow you to break your routine of being behind the podium and teach a class right from the app from anywhere in the classroom.

Write About One key to improving student writing is to have students write more often. But paperwork is hard to manage, you are limited in how much feedback you can provide, and students often have trouble thinking of ideas. Write About solves these problems, providing students with an online space to write on high-interest topics and get feedback from their peers.

Periscope With live streaming, a camera records something—a conversation, a demonstration, a performance, a meeting—and that event is broadcast live online, in real time. Until recently, if a school or teacher wanted to live stream something, the process required expensive equipment or subscriptions. But now live streaming is available free to anyone with a smartphone.

As the current front-runner in live-streaming apps, Periscope has gotten a lot of attention this past year. Like Meerkat, its primary competitor, Periscope allows users to broadcast live from their smartphones or tablets, take written comments from viewers, and share broadcasts on Twitter.

PosterMyWall is a fantastic tool for creating artistic, high-quality posters, collages, photo calendars and/or photo cards that can either be shared online or printed out and inexpensively shipped home. PosterMyWall for teaching purposes is to have students create posters as the culmination of a project to demonstrate what they have learned. Another interesting idea would be creating a poster as a means of introducing the students to a specific topic in an innovative way that stimulates discussion.

Today’s learners are experiential learners who learn by discovery rather than being “told.” They like to interact with content to explore and draw their own conclusions. They also like playing different roles in their learning, either as a student, or even as instructor or facilitator or supporter of others, and switch between them. We need to create classrooms where students are the ones who have to defend and explain their ideas as opposed to regurgitate facts.

Dr. Matthew X. Joseph is currently the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment in Leicester Public Schools. He has been a school and district leader in many capacities in public education over his 25 years in the field. Experiences such as the Director of Digital Learning and Innovation, elementary school principal, classroom teacher, and district professional development specialist. His work and experience focus on supporting teaching and learning. Follow Dr. Joseph on twitter at @MatthewXJoseph or read his blog techinnovation.live

Software & Online

BOXLIGHT IMPROVED STEM GUIDE
(www.boxlight.com)

Boxlight published “The Big Guide to STEM: Volume No. 2.” The guide offers tips and resources to guide teachers as they integrate STEM into their curriculum. Available for free, the comprehensive guide explains why STEM is critical for today’s students and shares how to incorporate STEM learning into the classroom.

CONNECTIONS MODEL KIDCONNECT READY2LEARN CURRICULUM
(www.teachemotionalregulation.com/kcr2l)

The Connections Model launched its KidConnect Ready2Learn Curriculum, a proactive social-emotional learning (SEL) program that provides teachers with the tools to help learners identify, understand, and manage their emotions in order to control their behavior. The curriculum is designed for grades K-6 and includes 26 lessons centered on targeted skills.

CURRICULUM ASSOCIATES “READY NEW YORK,” NEXT GENERATION LEARNING STANDARDS EDITION
(CurriculumAssociates.com/NYNextGen)

Curriculum Associates developed the Ready New York, Next Generation Learning Standards Edition. This new program, designed specifically to address the newly revised New York State standards, includes a combination of student and teacher resources that address the demands for focus, rigor, and higher-order thinking to support standards mastery and proficiency.

EDGENUITY SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING COURSE EXPANSION
(www.edgenuity.com)

Edgenuity customers now have access to six SEL courses integrated into Courseware: Mental Health & Wellness, College and Career Readiness, Social & Emotional Success, Unlock Your Purpose, Character & Leadership Development and Personal Development. The curriculum addresses topical interventions for students at risk or in need of behavioral supports and intervention.

GALE & MACKIN PARTNERSHIP
(www.gale.com) & (www.mackin.com)

Gale, a Cengage company, has partnered with Mackin to make its database content available on the MackinVIA digital content management platform. Now MackinVIA customers can search Gale databases using MackinVIA’s new Deep Discovery tool to quickly find authoritative content, delivering better research outcomes for student success.

KICKBOARD SKILL FOR AMAZON ALEXA
(www.kickboardforschools.com) & (developer.amazon.com/en-US/alexa)

Kickboard announced that the Kickboard skill for Amazon Alexa will be hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS) for the 2019-2020 school year and available to customers via Alexa-enabled devices. Families will have access to their child’s behavior data and messages using any Alexa-enabled device and via the Alexa app.

SAM LABS BABY BLOCKY & OTHER PRODUCTS
(samlabs.com)

SAM Labs launched new coding and problem-solving curriculum and resources for kindergarten and first-grade students, including Baby Blocky, a new character to the SAM Labs family, and other courses that highlight coding, creativity, exploration, solution thinking, and collaboration skills. Additionally, the K-1 kits will include cross-discipline, extension and enrichment activities.

TURNITIN EMPOWERS EDUCATORS TO TEACH ORIGINALITY
(www.turnitin.com)

With Turnitin Feedback Studio’s similarity checking service, leverage the world’s largest collection of internet, academic, and student paper content. Teaching originality requires more than just plagiarism detection; paired with commenting and grading tools and classroom resources, Feedback Studio helps teach students the value of their authentic voice.

Hardware & Software

Optoma (www.optoma.com/us) announced its 406 series of ultra compact 1080p and WUXGA laser light source projectors. With 4K HDR image processing and simplified features to fit ProAV installations in education, government and corporate settings, the Optoma ZU406, ZH406 and ZH406ST will illuminate any mid-size projection environment with incredible picture quality.

Software & Online

BOCLIPS FOR TEACHERS VIDEO PLATFORM
(www.boclips.com)

Boclips launched its new solution, Boclips for Teachers, a video platform that offers an extensive library of material to bring academic topics to life for all ages. Boclips for Teachers is a school-safe alternative to unfiltered consumer-focused video platforms, it’s easy to use and has no video copyright issues to worry about. By cutting and pasting links, educators can supplement lessons in any school subject with short video clips that capture and keep students’ attention.

CDI TECHNOLOGIES EDTECH-AS-A-SERVICE
(cditechnologies.com)

CDI Technologies has created “EdTechas-a-Service” to help schools launch their technology programs and reach their 1:1 initiatives faster. School districts enrolled in the program pay an annual flat fee per student or per seat. They select technologies and support services from CDI’s menu of options. EdTech-as-a-Service combines hardware, software and services into a single subscription. Options include refurbished devices, charging carts, interactive displays, and service options including planning, deployment, professional development support, and more.

CERTIPORT UNITY CERTIFIED USER: PROGRAMMING EXAM
(certiport.pearsonvue.com)

Certiport announced the new Unity Certified User: Programmer exam. The Unity Certified User (UCU) certification will cover the basics of C# programming within Unity to create interactivity in games, apps, AR/VR, and other digital experiences. The UCU certification is built for high schools, community colleges, vocational schools, and non-profit organizations offering game design, computer science, coding, digital media, and AR/VR courses. The entry-level credential allows individuals to get started on interactive content creation.

FOLLETT & HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT PARTNERSHIP EXPANSION
(www.follettlearning.com) & (www.hmhco.com)

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and Follett School Solutions announced an expanded partnership to deliver HMH’s K-12 learning solutions including curriculum, professional development and services to students, teachers and schools throughout the United Arab Emirates. Follett will serve as the exclusive distributor. Representatives from both organizations will be visiting schools throughout the UAE to provide comprehensive support and work hand-in-hand with education leaders to develop a vision for curriculum and services to drive growth for each institution.

GAGGLE AND GOOGLE FOR EDUCATION
(www.gaggle.net)

Gaggle announced that it has joined the Google for Education technology program as a Premier Partner. Gaggle supports schools and districts that use G Suite for Education by monitoring Google accounts for early warning signs of students in crisis. Gaggle’s student safety solution uses machine learning and human safety experts to review students’ use of online tools, alerting school officials when students show signs of self-harm, depression, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, cyberbullying, and more.

KAHOOT! SMART PRACTICE FEATURE
(kahoot.com)

Kahoot! has added a new feature to help students better retain knowledge they obtained in class, restudy difficult questions, and be able to retrieve those learnings many weeks after content was taught. Smart Practice can be accessed after playing a challenge where some questions were answered incorrectly. Then, the features engages in a step-by-step procedure over the course of up to 72 hours that helps learners remember the answers to the questions they missed.

NORVANIVEL
(norvanivel.com/product-category/learning-spaces/steamspace/)

NorvaNivel recently launched in America to transform education through space. The company designs and manufactures agile learning spaces that cater to students’ individual learning styles and promote engagement. Their forward-thinking spaces facilitate pedagogies that empower students with the skills for the future. This is achieved through lightweight, multipurpose and mobile educational furniture designs that allow all learners to reconfigure their learning space – for an activity or their own preference – in sixty seconds.

RENAISSANCE AND FRECKLE EDUCATION ACQUISITION
(www.renaissance.com) & (www.freckle.com)

Renaissance announced its acquisition of Freckle Education, a company that provides a differentiation platform for all four core subjects: math, social studies, science and English language arts. This acquisition will enhance educators’ opportunities to accelerate student learning, especially when it comes to much-needed critical math skills. Combining Freckle’s differentiated lessons with the insights educators gain with Renaissance’s Star Math K–12 assessment solution will help deepen the learning connection between teacher and student.

SECURLY & SCHOOLOGY INTEGRATION
(www.securly.com) & (www.schoology.com)

Securly announced an update to ChromeTools that makes Schoology class rosters instantly and seamlessly available to teachers. Through this integration, teachers can begin a class session by selecting a class to view thumbnails of all screens and access a variety of tools. ChromeTools enables teachers to have better classroom management allowing them to launch websites on student devices, keep students on task with limited browsing, monitor overall browsing activity, communicate with students and much more.

THE VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL
(www.vhslearning.org)

The Virtual High School (VHS Inc.), has launched four new flexible credit recovery courses available for registration now. Covering a variety of subjects, the flex courses are instructor-led and can be completed at a flexible pace. Students have up to 15 weeks to complete any of the following new courses: Personal Fitness Flex & US Government Flex for 0.5 credits, and Chemistry and Pre-Calculus Flex for one credit.

TYPING.COM
(www.typing.com)

Typing.com has announced three new curriculum series that are fully integrated into Typing.com and are completely free to all users. The series include Tech Readiness, an Elementary-level tech literacy program that educates students on computer use and online safety; Career Prep, a secondary program that features units on workplace professionalism, word processing and more; Coding Essentials covers coding lessons and basic programming skills that can be worked on at class or at home.

VERNIER GO DIRECT FORCE AND ACCELERATION SENSOR WITH SCRATCH CODING INTEGRATION
(scratch.mit.edu/vernier)

The Vernier Go Direct Force and Acceleration Sensor now integrates with the Scratch coding platform. Now, students are able to engage with scientific and computational concepts through hands-on project-based learning. Students can control animated characters and objects using several new coding blocks and commands. Students can also write code to use the sensor to make a video game controller to drive a spaceship or play a virtual drum kit by interacting with the sensor.

MAXCases (www.maxcases.com) launched their new MAXCases EdgeProtect and EdgeProtect Plus custom-fit cases. The EdgeProtect is made of impact-resistant, clear polycarbonate, surrounded by a shock-absorbing TPE edge. When closed for carrying, the intended fit of the EdgeProtect extends and overlaps the corners of the Chromebook or laptop for maximum protection. The EdgeProtect Plus two-piece case features the company’s new FrameGuard bottom, which evenly distributes vibrations across a wider area of the device, offering greater drop protection.

TOA Electronics (www.toaelectronicsusa.com) N-SP80 series SIP Video Intercom System offers flexible audio and video communications using standard SIP and Onvif protocols. It can integrate with external SIP compatible systems through a SIP server. Peer-to-Peer mode is allows for standalone system operations without SIP server environment. TOA’s N-8000SG SIP gateway software is available to integrate with TOA’s N-8000 IP intercom system. Other features include network video streaming and recording, two contact relay outputs, and two tamper switch inputs.

Mobile Edge (www.mobileedge.com) offers a large selection of messenger bags, backpacks, totes, and briefcases for people on the go. Trending bags include Core Gaming Backpack, ideal for most laptops and gaming consoles, making them popular with students, gamers, and professionals. The SmartPack Backpack is ergonomically designed and super lightweight. The Eco-Friendly Charcoal Laptop Messenger Bag features a padded laptop compartment, a front workstation for miscellaneous items, and a separate section for documents and accessories.

LEGO Education and FIRST unveiled two new, exclusive architecture-themed LEGO (education.lego.com/en-us) & (www.firstinspires.org) sets created for the 2019-2020 FIRST LEGO League Jr. and FIRST LEGO League season. FIRST LEGO League Jr. teams will use the BOOMTOWN BUILD Inspire Set, while FIRST LEGO League teams will use the CITY SHAPER Challenge set. LEGO Education also announced that its new LEGO Education SPIKE Prime with the new SPIKE Prime Competition Expansion Set can be used with LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3 in FIRST LEGO League.

Each month I come across lots of interesting educational technology resources from the blogs I read, podcasts I listen to, videos I watch, or trainings I attend.

As I find these valuable resources I collect them in several ongoing Google Documents for different subject areas including: 

• ELA, ELL and Languages - Google Doc link
• Math - Google Doc link
• Science and STEM - Google Doc link
• Social Studies - Google Doc link 

These documents are shared with comment rights so everyone is allowed and encouraged to add your own suggestions for links to include.

At the end of each month I like to share my collected resources from that month. See below for the links from April 2019, organized by subject. You will also find my video and podcast episode where I highlight a handful of my favorites from the list. 

Resources

Podcast Version: (Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast tool.) 

Video Version: (subscribe on YouTube)  

ELA / ELL / Languages

• Novel Effect - Resource Link - Read aloud from your favorite kids books and Novel Effect will follow along and play music and sound effects, customized for every story.
• WordWanderer - Resource Link - Interactive word cloud generator with drag and drop features to compare and explore word relationships
• Tech to Support ELL - Resource Link - A collection of online tools and resources to help support vocabulary and literacy skills for ELL students (or any student)
• Word Hippo - Resource Link - Online site that students can use to find definitions, synonyms, antonyms, translations, and more for words.
• The Most Dangerous Writing App - Resource Link - Website that forces you to write continuously for a set number of minutes, and will delete what you write if you stop for more than 5 seconds.
• ELL Blogs - Resource Link - A collection of the best blogs for sharing resources for teaching English Language Learners
• Classtools SMS Generator - Resource Link - Free tool that can be used to create text message exchanges between fictional and historical characters. 

Math

• Desmos Pet House - Resource Link - Interactive Desmos activity where students learn about graphing, slope, and linear relationships
• GeoGebra 3D Graphing Calculator - Android Link, iOS Link - Graph 3D functions and surfaces, create geometric constructions in 3D, save and share your results. With Augmented Reality enabled, you can place math objects on any surface and walk around them.
• Solving Equations HyperDoc - Resource Link - Interactive lesson to review, explore, and extend student understanding of solving equations
• Far Side Expansion - Resource Link - Fun math activity addressing scale and proportions, where students collaboratively create an enlarged version of a comic strip
• Google Dataset Search - Resource Link, Resource Link - Search tool to help users find publicly available datasets on a wide range of topics, which can be viewed and downloaded for analysis.
• Braingenie - Resource Link - Free site from CK-12 to learn, practice, and quiz yourself on over 5,000 skills in math and science for elementary through high school students 

Science and STEM

• Science Experiment Channels - Resource Link - Collection of YouTube videos and channels that focus on science experiments and STEM activities.
• The Pack - Resource Link - Free open-world game for PC and Mac, that lets students explore STEM subjects of environmental awareness and computational thinking.
• Global Temperature Anomalies - Resource Link - Interactive 3D climate change map showing temperatures around the world above or below the long-term average temperature for every year since 1950.
• Science Media Resources - Resource Link - Large collection of excellent YouTube channels, podcasts, and websites with media resources for Science education.
• Google Dataset Search - Resource Link, Resource Link - Search tool to help users find publicly available datasets on a wide range of topics, which can be viewed and downloaded for analysis.
• Braingenie - Resource Link - Free site from CK-12 to learn, practice, and quiz yourself on over 5,000 skills in math and science for elementary through high school students.
• Google Earth Engine Timelapse - Resource Link - Satellite photos from the last 35 years show time lapse changes for any location around the world. Updated with new interface and more years of data. 

Social Studies

• Economics Comics - Resource Link - Downloadable digital comic books for teachers to use in their social studies and economics lessons.
• Google Dataset Search - Resource Link, Resource Link - Search tool to help users find publicly available datasets on a wide range of topics, which can be viewed and downloaded for analysis.
• Global Temperature Anomalies - Resource Link - Interactive 3D climate change map showing temperatures around the world above or below the long-term average temperature for every year since 1950.
• Classtools SMS Generator - Resource Link - Free tool that can be used to create text message exchanges between fictional and historical characters.
• Google Earth Engine Timelapse - Resource Link - Satellite photos from the last 35 years show time lapse changes for any location around the world. Updated with new interface and more years of data. 

General

• ClassKick - Resource Link, Resource Link - Free web tool that allows ease of use, activities with manipulative movement, instant feedback, audio comments, peer interaction, and more.
• Gzaas - Resource Link - Quickly share a full-screen message with your class, with multiple text styles to choose from.
• Photos for Class - Resource Link, Resource Link - Great site for school-safe, free images including proper citations for student projects
• Word Cloud Tools - Resource Link - A collection of seven online tools for creating word clouds, with directions for using each one.
• Random Student Selector - Resource Link - Creative use of Google Slides to make a random student selector 

cross posted at www.controlaltachieve.com

Eric Curts is an education trainer and consultant with over 20 years' experience throughout the U.S. He is an authorized Google Education Trainer   and a Google Certified Innovator. Read his blog at www.controlaltachieve.com and follow him on Google+ and @ericcurts on Twitter.

It is important that students know how to search on the internet. This not only includes the basics of “how to”, but also what search engine to use. In this post, I wish to point out seven areas of search engines everyone should be aware of. They include:

1. The Informational Search Engine
2. The Human Reviewed Search Engine
3. The Computational Search Engine
4. The Individualized Search Engine
5. The Social Media Search Engine
6. Primary Document Search Engine
7. Subscription Search Engine

While there are more categories and of course more search engines, it is important to become familiar with these seven. It is also imperative that students understand that there is still more information available in the somewhat closed web environment. These include reference services and databases. Your school librarian will be happy to introduce you and your students to some of these highly academic resources. Let’s take a moment to look at these seven categories and a search engine from each one. After looking them over take a moment to experiment and try each one out. I know you will also enjoy the sites that follow the seven categories encouraging your students to work on their search strategies. I am certain you and your students will enjoy the search and the inquiry just as much as the getting the answer. Also, remember that the answer just might lead to new questions and inquiry! 

Seven Categories of Search Engines with an Example for Each

Google Advanced Search – Informational Search Engine –   It may be best  to direct students towards the Google Advanced Search Engine even before using the Google Basic Search. In fact, Advanced Search should be used until students understand how to use these advanced techniques in a Basic Search.  When  educators ask students to search and find information on the internet… it is not to just get the answer. It is to learn an important process that will serve them through future schooling and eventual careers. Take a look at the Google Advanced Search Engine and see why it really should be a basic prerequisite! For those who have been long time users of the advanced search you are probably aware that it is no longer next to the search box in its once prominent location. Instead… it was moved a while ago to the upper right-hand corner appearing as a gear icon and sometimes may not appear until you perform a basic search. The link above takes you directly to the Google Advanced Search Engine.  You can check out some of the Google Advanced Search Operators that can be used in the Basic Search at this Link. Read more about using the Advanced Search at 21centuryedtech.

Sweet Search – Human Reviewed – It is owned by Dulcinea Media, a company committed to supplying students with a search engine that returns results that are accurate, reliable, safe, and understandable. Instead of having students sift through millions of websites, the research experts, educators, and librarians at Dulcinea have created a database of tens of thousands of sites that students have access to in their searches. As a result, SweetSearch excludes results from unreliable sites that might rank high in other search engines.  This allows  students to choose the most relevant result from a list of credible returns, rather than having  educational time wasted on unreliable sites. Since Sweetsearch is powered by Google, it does allow the ability to toggle results between Google and Sweetsearch. Read more about using the Advanced Search at 21centuryedtech.

>WolframAlpha – Computational – Google is best termed an informational search engine… its strength is looking for facts and information. There are also data based search engines, by now you may know that I am referring to Wolfram Alpha.  This search engine claims, “to bring broad, deep, expert knowledge to everyone… anytime, anywhere!”. They further state, “We aim to collect and curate all objective data; implement every known model, method, and algorithm; and make it possible to compute whatever can be computed about anything. Our goal is to build on the achievements of science and other systematization of knowledge to provide a single source that can be relied on by everyone for definitive answers to factual queries.” Check out theWolframAlpha Educator Page. It is filled with great ideas for all subject areas.

Google Custom Search – Individualized – This  is a unique way to curate and archive sites for students and still require them to practice good searching techniques. Many times as teachers we find our students trying to maneuver their way through  the internet jungle often finding sites they cannot understand, are not reliable/credible, or do not apply. As educators, we must help teach our students how to both search and evaluate resources they find.  Many times it seems more efficient to just hand out the links. What might it be like if we still controlled the links, but students still had to search? This is the whole idea behind a Google Custom Search!  It is also easy to learn, takes very little time,  and best of all… free. It also allows the teacher to have a listing of those very best websites in designated areas. You can make as many Custom Search Engines as you wish. All you need is a Google account.
To get started visit the Google Custom Search Engine  Page. Here you can either sign in or if you do not have a Google account… sign up. After doing this you are ready. To create a custom search engine from scratch, you’ll need to define a name and description, and add some sites to search. Make sure you have thought this out and have those sites in mind.

Twitter Advanced Search – Social Media Search – This Twitter Search Page is valuable when showing teachers great ways to collect learning resources.  Many times after using, they are excited to sign up for their own Twitter account.  Using Twitter can have its challenges. With the Twitter Search Page, it may now be possible because no log in or account set up is required. It could be great in finding facts and information. It can also be used with current events or an unraveling news story. Most of all, it can show students the power and educational benefits of social media. As always… before using with students consult your district AUP, Terms Of Use, and check with district administration.  As in using any web application, students should be trained on proper digital citizenship and monitoring of students is essential. Read more about the Twitter Advanced Search at  21centuryedtech.

Infotopia – While not well known, it has some unique features. One is its ability to do a Primary Document Search. You may need to read past the ads… but that is something that should be taught anyway!

Your Subscription Database – Does your school, state, or public library  supply data bases for students. Students must get beyond just Googling! I have listed some that are free and some that might have a cost… or perhaps it is already paid!

Some sites that can help with student inquiry and searching skills

• Inside Search
• A Google A Day
• Google Search Education
• SearchReSearch
• Google App Searching 

Thank you for joining me and I hope you found this information something you can use in your school and useful to share with other educators.  As always, I invite you to follow me on twitter (mjgormans). Please give this post a retweet and pass it on to someone who will benefit. To ensure you do not miss a future valuable post or other resource covering PBL, Digital Curriculum, STEM, 21st-century learning, and technology integration please sign up for 21centuryedtech by email or RSS. Have a great week… enjoy the Websites! – Mike (https://21centuryedtech.wordpress.com/ 

cross-posted at 21centuryedtech.wordpress.com

Michael Gorman oversees one-to-one laptop programs and digital professional development for Southwest Allen County Schools near Fort Wayne, Indiana.   He is a consultant for Discovery Education, ISTE, My Big Campus, and November Learning and is on the National Faculty for The Buck Institute for Education. His awards include district Teacher of the Year, Indiana STEM Educator   of the Year and Microsoft’s 365 Global Education Hero. Read more at 21centuryedtech.wordpress.com.

Okay. Not that president. Other presidents. You know, from history.

Like Truman, Eisenhower, and Reagan. And they need your help. Even better, they need your students to help. The National Archives have put together something called Advise the President. And like everything else the Archives do, it’s awesome.

Throughout history, every president is faced with having to make difficult decisions. The Advise the President series gives you the chance to bring the deliberation process surrounding these historic decisions to the classroom. Each booklet focuses on a significant topic during the administration of a specific president.

There are currently five problems and presidents that you and students can work with:

• Truman:
  What Should the United States do About the Emerging Threat Posed by the Soviet Union?
• Eisenhower:
  How Should the United States Confront Soviet Communist Expansionism?
• Ford:
  How Should the Federal Government Respond to New York City’s Financial Crisis?
• Reagan:
  How Should the United States Move Towards Economic Recovery?
• Clinton:
  What Should the United States Do About The Kosovo Crisis?

The series is a ready-to-use tool that provides you with an opportunity to bring historic presidential decisions into the classroom. Using a deliberation process, students will learn about history by focusing on pivotal issues faced by past presidents. Your kids are given the chance to travel back to these historic moments and take on the role of a presidential advisor. Given options similar to those the president considered, the students deliberate each presented option and decide on the choice they think is best.

This is the example of the problem that Eisenhower faced in the 1950s:

The Advise the President Series focuses on using original documents, and photographs to provide students with an in depth understanding of historical events related to the presidents. Which is perfect for having kids practice historical thinking skills.

Each of the different simulations also include moderator guides that accompany each booklet to assist you in guiding students through the deliberation process and promoting productive discussion. Each booklet in the series also features a detailed reveal of the decision the president ultimately made.

This is a perfect way to have kids use evidence to support a claim. One way to extend would be to have students connect the historical problem to a contemporary issue. But even if all you do is follow the resources provided, you’re golden.

I also like the idea of using the structure to extend the process to other presidents and their problems. Give kids sample problems and ask kids to create their own three options to explore. This seems like a perfect place to introduce some counterfactual thinking here. Perhaps add additional options and have students explore what might have happened.     

cross posted at glennwiebe.org

Glenn Wiebe is an education and technology consultant with 15 years' experience teaching history and social studies. He is a curriculum consultant   forESSDACK, an educational service center in Hutchinson, Kansas, blogs frequently at History Tech and maintains Social Studies Central, a repository of resources targeted at K-12 educators. Visit glennwiebe.org to learn more about his speaking and presentation on education technology, innovative instruction and social studies.

The internet is an amazing place filled with a wealth of information.  In fact, there is so much information, students must be given the skills on how to search and evaluate in order to utilize the amazing treasures that can be found in an ever running faucet of information.   While skilled researchers have developed metacognitive skills in order  to prepare for their encounter with their favorite search engine, this is not always the case of students in the classroom. Instead, I wish to discuss the strategies that are important to research before a student enters that first keyword in the research portion. 

1. Design the Question – As a teacher, it is important to understand the purpose of the research activity. This helps in designing the research question that is to be used. Is it a question with a definite answer …or is it one that is open ended? There is a big difference between the two as students are facilitated through the process. A simple research question (What elements make up water?) may be easily answered through a search engine. In this case, there may be minimal time spent on pre-search, with an emphasis  more on web page evaluation and search strategies. On the other hand, it may be the question is more open-ended… (Is there enough safe drinking water in the world?). In this case, there may be a need for pre-search strategies , although even simple questions can also be served by some pre-search activities.

2. Emphasize The Need To Know – To begin we must understand that research really does involve student inquiry. Perhaps before answering a question… we ask students to ask more questions.  Often this is called the “Need To Know”.  A good open ended question that drives research does not always have a clear and precise answer. In other words, it may not be Google-able. Instead, students might ask “Need To Know” questions that can be answered through a simple search. It may also lead to more questions, allowing for divergent learning. Teaching students to first ask great questions might be more important than starting the task by finding answers. Even in a closed question, (What elements make up water?), students may have to answer the question (What is an element?). This emphasizes the related topic below.

3. Clarifying the Question –  Often students do not even understand the question being asked. In this case, the question needs to be simplified. There may also be a discussion needed allowing students to clarify the question. This may involve the ” Need to Know” described above. It may also necessitate that students break down the question and get definitions to words being used in the question. This might facilitate the need for students to find synonyms, antonyms, and associations… before diving into the search. It could involve a mini search, where definitions are found for word meaning. In this manner, students find success at researching manageable tasks. This can be especially powerful when students are allowed to collaborate together seeking the answers.

4. Creating Student Journals – Educators must encourage students to keep a road map of their pre-search journey. It might include wonders, words, definitions, reflections, and  “Need To Know” questions, This can be done using a reflective journal.  One might ask students to write entries to reflect on their research journey activity. The teacher might develop a rubric that uses components of critical thinking. These components of critical thinking can be discussion prompts in the student journal.

5. Defining the learning goal/target – Please remember that asking questions, pre-search, and research is a process. While the end goal is to try to find an answer, remind students they may run into more questions first. It is only through this process that real learning takes place. The focus must be on the process and not the answer. This has its formation in the pre-search and questioning time period. If there is no pre-search time or time of questioning given… possibly the end product has become more important than the process.

15 Great Pre-search and Question Tools 

I wish to build on  the steps outlined in this post with practical ideas. I would like to introduce some tools that can be used to help facilitate the pre-search and question asking period of time with students. By understanding the need for pre-search and inquiry one can see how these tools, some of which you may already know, can be used in a different way to help students as they get ready to research.  Please enjoy the tools and let me know of other that I can include in a future post. 

1. Visuwords™ online graphical dictionary —An amazing web tool allowing students to  look up words to find their meanings and associations with other words and concepts. Students will learn how words associate and will come up with new possible search terms. It is easy to enter words into the search box. Students can then look them up or double-click a node to expand the tree. When the mouse hovers over a node, one can see the definition. You can even click and drag individual nodes to move them around to help clarify connections.  Note from developer: “Visuwords™ uses Princeton University’s WordNet, an opensource database built by University students and language researchers. Combined with a visualization tool and user interface built from a combination of modern web technologies, Visuwords™ is available as a free resource to all patrons of the web.” 

• It’s a dictionary! It’s a thesaurus!
• Great for writers, journalists, students, teachers, and artists.
• The online dictionary is available wherever there’s an internet connection.
• No membership required

 2. Wikipedia – As you may know, this is a multilingual, web-based, free content encyclopedia project operated by the Wikimedia Foundation. The name “Wikipedia” is a portmanteau of the words wiki (a technology for creating collaborative websites, from the Hawaiian word wiki, meaning “quick”) and encyclopedia. Of course, Wikipedia is not the only source of research, and as in all sources should be confirmed with other resources. Wikipedia can be a great place to start because: 

• Wikipedia’s articles provide links to guide the user to related pages with additional information. These links can be powerful at providing insight into the search and possible information.
• There are words in a Wikipedia article can be recorded as possible keywords for a future search. As students record these  words they may also wish to figure out meanings with a simple Google (define:) search.
• Wikipedia can give some beginning information that can help define and set the pathway for research
• The Wikipedia end of article sources can be invaluable in the research and search process.

3. Wordle – This website   allows for the generation of “word clouds” from the text that is provided to it. These clouds give greater prominence to words that appear more frequently in the source text that was input. Students can tweak these word clouds with different fonts, layouts, and color schemes. One pre-search strategy would involve placing an article on a topic into Wordle… perhaps from Wikipedia. Once the common words are eliminated the word cloud is made. This is now a great time to discuss and investigate words that are more prominent. Could these words be valuable in the research that will take place? 

4. AnswerGarden – This site is best described as a minimalist feedback tool that is easy to use in the classroom. A teacher can create an Answer Garden by entering a topic on the Create New Answer Garden-Page. From there you will be redirected to your newly created Answer Garden Website. Since no-one has posted an answer yet, your Answer Garden will still be empty. The next step is to share your Answer Garden URL. Use it live in the classroom, to pose a question, or place (embed) your Answer Garden on your classroom website. A Driving Question could be posted with a request that students post their Need to Knows. There are countless possibilities. All student feedback  is then represented in your Answer Garden. One neat feature is to be able to export the feedback into a Word Cloud using Wordle or Tagxedo! Imagine the possible reflection and discussion that can spark great research.  

5. Text 2 Mindmap -This website allows for a wonderful way to organize thoughts before performing a search. In order to encourage the use of mind mapping, Text 2 Mind Map has provided a free and simple mind mapping tool online.  The easiest way to learn Text2MindMap is to play with it and you will see that your students understand it fast.  Some tips:

Write some text in the text area, use the TAB key to indent text lines, and click the “Draw Mind Map”-button to see what happens. Each text line in the text area will become a separate node in the mind map. Indenting the text (using the TAB key) starts a new branch of nodes in the mind map. Also, have a look at the Options to style your mind map.

How might your students mind map their pre-search strategies? This is a wonderful way to get students to see the pre-search and research process and all of the possible connections. It could be a part of their blueprint for that eventual encounter with the search engine.

6. Diffen – A very interesting tool that lets the user compare anything. What is the difference between DVD+R and DVD-R? What is the difference between an apple and an orange, or  an alligator and a crocodile?  How does the work environment at IBM compare with working at Microsoft? How does living in Seattle compare with living in Amsterdam? What is the difference between a Plasma TV and an LCD TV? How about Cal Tech and UCLA or the Yankees and the Red Sox? These comparisons might clarify some Need To Know question and also provide words that will be valuable in the research process.

7. Thesaurus – Every month more than 50 million users across the globe visit this online English dictionary and thesaurus. That makes it the world’s largest and most authoritative free online dictionary and mobile reference resource.  A thesaurus is invaluable at finding words that might just lend themselves to the research process. It can open up a whole new line up of search word terms.

8. Wordsift – This is a wonderful tool for classroom use. Students can  enter a word into the WordSift “box” and a semantic map appears with different synonyms for the word. It is great for those looking to find research keyword possibilities. When a user hovers over the word or its synonyms, a  definition is produced. Clicking on a synonym brings up a semantic map for that specific word. Each word is accompanied by Google images that illustrate different aspects of the word. Another great way to get students brainstorming and thinking about research possibilities.  A user can link from a word on the list to the same WordSift features.  With  just one click on a word in the list, students will get the same features, as if they had entered it into WordSift.

9. InstaGrok – This tool allows students to research a topic with an interactive map. They can customize it with facts, links, and videos. It is also possible for them to share it to show what they have learned. A wonderful way to journal the research process.

10. Interactive Webbing Tool – Students can use this  interactive from Read-Write-Think to create free-form graphic organizers, They can drag  ideas around in the organizer to arrange any layout and relationship that they want. They can use circle or box (rectangle) shapes to appear on the chart and each layer on the chart will have a different color border for the shapes chosen. Imagine how this can be used to show the path and process in research.

11. Fishbone Diagram – This incredible digital tool from Classtools allows students to break down their  per-search ideas and thoughts while providing details and definitions. A Fishbone Diagram has always been a wonderful graphic organizer on paper, and now it can be part of your digital toolkit.

12. Google Image Search – It has often been said that a picture paints a thousand words. Your students can locate images and brainstorm possible search terms that these images provide. Not only will this be powerful as students begin to get ready to search, it is also a wonderful meta-cognitive activity

13. Dictionary – Not much explanation is needed as to why the dictionary can be an important tool in the pre-search time period. Perhaps students need to look up a word in order to understand a question or an answer. This is just one example of many dictionaries online.

14. Google Drive (Docs) – The ability to collaborate together in the brainstorming portion of the pre-search strategy can be amplified by the ability to share digital documents. Your students can share documents, and also use Google’s drawing tools to collaborate, record, and journal their research journey.

15. K-W-L Creator –  Discover another great digital tool from Read-Write-Think. K-W-L charts have been widely used to help students prepare for research by organizing what students know (K) and want to learn before they research, and then reflecting on what they learned (L). This helpful interactive tool is equipped with the work-saver functionality so that students can save their work at different stages in the K-W-L process. Users also have the ability to embed text links, giving an extra level of interaction and explanation.

cross-posted at 21centuryedtech.wordpress.com

Michael Gorman oversees one-to-one laptop programs and digital professional development for Southwest Allen County Schools near Fort Wayne, Indiana.   He is a consultant for Discovery Education, ISTE, My Big Campus, and November Learning and is on the National Faculty for The Buck Institute for Education. His awards include district Teacher of the Year, Indiana STEM Educator   of the Year and Microsoft’s 365 Global Education Hero. Read more at 21centuryedtech.wordpress.com.

"Goals. There’s no telling what you can do when you get inspired by them. There’s no telling what you can do when you believe in them. And there’s no telling what will happen when you act upon them."  Jim Rohn 

The new year is a wonderful time to inspire your students to set goals and plan for academic and personal success. By helping your students set and achieve goals you also help them develop a growth mindset, which is what they need to be successful human beings. Planning and achieving goals is greatly tied to inspiration. Initial inspiration is much easier to spark, but continuous inspiration is harder to sustain. This is why I encourage my students to create vision boards and tie this to the “One Word Project.” Below are some student examples and a free Buncee template you can use with your students. Check out more student examples here. I am also including a slide presentation (download as a free PDF) with tips about helping students set and achieve goals and benchmark their progress. You can read more about student vision boards in my book, The 30 Goals Challenge for Educators: Small Steps to Transform Your Teaching. 

Template

Student Examples

Web Tools & Resources for Creating Vision  Boards and Setting Goals

My students used Buncee to create their vision boards, but below are some other free web tools and apps I recommend. 

*Google Slides and Google Draw are other options. You could easily use this Buncee template in Google Slides.

*Genial.ly is a free web tool for creating interactive visuals, including infographics, presentations, interactive slideshows and so much more.

*Canva– web tool and iPad app with a free library of stock images, stickers, and graphics.

*EduGlogster– web tool and app that allows students to combine their own images, graphics, audio, video and text to create a multimedia scrapbook.

*Smore– web tool to create digital flyers with videos, icons, and images. Some teachers have used this web tool to create  infographics.

*Pic-Collage– iOS/Android app for creating visual collages that can include video. Also, find a library of stickers, frames, and templates.

*VisionBoard.cc– Chrome extension to create a vision board and set it as a homepage.

*Padlet and LinoIt are other ways to create a vision board or set goals with learners. Check out this example of my class goals here and an inspiration board here!

*Pinterest– free and popular curation web tool, iOS/Android app, and bookmarklet to easily pin inspiring posts, documents, videos, and images to a board.

*Free 2018 Year in Review Handout for Children!

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is a Technology and Computer teacher, education consultant, and author of books including Hacking Digital Learning Strategies: 10 Ways to Launch EdTech Missions in Your Classroom. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

 "Plagiarism is the 'wrongful appropriation' and 'stealing and publication' of another author's 'language, thoughts, ideas, or expressions' and the representation of them as one's own original work. (Wikipedia)."  Technology has made it easier for teachers and students to check for plagiarism and make sure that work is original, leading me to creating the following list.

*This list is in alphabetical order.   

1. BibMe - Not only does BibMe check for plagiarism, it also checks for grammar and allows for proper citation to prevent stealing others' work.
2. EduBirdie - A free tool where a user can upload or copy/paste text into the submission field, to receive a report detailing what words and phrases are unique or "stolen" with listed sources.
3. Grammarly - A great site where users can check for plagiarism and get recommendations for citations on sources that need to be properly credited.
4. Noplag - An excellent online plagiarism, spell, and grammar checker for teachers and students.
5. OuiWrite - An innovative all-in-one site that checks for plagiarism, but acts as a writing assistant for student's papers automatically searching/citing sources as they go along.
6. PaperRater - A nice site for students want to check grammar, spelling, and plagiarism.
7. PapersOwl - A convenient free plagiarism checker that students can use to detect their work and get detailed reports.
8. PlagTracker - A wonderful site for uploading a document and then scanning for plagiarism with accurate reports.
9. Plagiarisma - A simple little site for pasting in text to check for plagiarism.
10. QueText - A fantastic site where a user can copy/paste or upload text to detect plagiarism and generate detailed reports.

cross posted at cyber-kap.blogspot.com

David Kapuler is an educational consultant with more than 10 years of experience working in the K-12 environment. For more information about his work, contact him at dkapuler@gmail.com and read his blog at cyber-kap.blogspot.com.

ISTE Edtech Advisor, a new community-driven review platform, will give educators insight into which tools, technology, and apps will best meet their learning objectives. Available free to all ISTE members, Edtech Advisor will allow educators to find and share information confidently about the tech tools they use, discover new tools and apps, and access reviews, ratings, and input from a trusted community of tech-savvy educators. Edtech Advisor, powered by LearnPlatform, has a database of more than 5,000 tools and allows ISTE members to access detailed reviews and feedback from peers. The platform provides data-driven insights to help determine a product’s potential to transform learning and identifies contexts where the tool has been most successful. “Choosing the right tools and apps to use in the classroom is far too important of a decision to be made without accurate, trustworthy data that takes into consideration the context and circumstances in which the tool will be used,” says Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE. “The ISTE Edtech Advisor puts this information right at teachers’ fingertips. Data-driven choices about edtech have never been easier.”

https://tinyurl.com/ybvcwnsa

Online educational technologies are gaining speed year by year. Students get more and more convenient with them, and paper testing is losing its importance and necessity when we talk about knowledge evaluation.

Learning management system, question-answer and feedback tools - all these digital instruments are aimed to provide students with fast and fair assessment directly after taking a test.

Why digital assessment is better than paper testing?

There are lots of reasons to use educational technologies for student assessments, such as saving time, making the learning process more comprehensive and friendly, getting fast feedbacks, etc. But the main advantage is the order in a classroom.

For example, Unicheck plagiarism checker Google Docs Add-on allows students not just avoid accidental and self-plagiarising, but check the property of marking citations and references. The students can precheck their assignments before submitting that makes their work more independent and save teacher’s time for the actual grading.

No more stacks of papers on a teacher’s table, no more lost tests, no more need of taking all assignments home for check.

Digital assessment eases the lives of teachers and students, so they may focus on a test itself without bothering themselves with preparations.

Besides, due to modern technologies learners may take initiative considering their studies without interrupting each other. All their activity can be tracked by a teacher on the spot.

Having digital testing is a real fun for students, fun which brings positive results to their studies. Working with the interested audience makes teaching easier and more desirable for learners.

Digital assessment tools

Gamifying the answering. One of the most popular instruments for digital assessing is Kahoot! This gamification platform helps teachers to build learning process in a form of a game by creating multiple choice questions or using already existing games. Though every student needs to have a personal computer to pass the test, this is a great group activity, as all questions are transmitted to a shared screen and may be discussed if needed.

A teacher may upload media files and images to create a unique game, as well as download ready-made stuff.

According to feedbacks of US teachers, Kahoot! provides with 100% engagement in the class, as students totally plunge into the competition atmosphere willing to win the game.

The ideal solution to get a brief and to-the-point feedback from a group of learners is the AnswerGarden digital assessment tool. This simple online instrument is devoted to the quick question-answer interaction between learners and a teacher.

After an educator has created and shared a question to the class, students may start tying the answer or choose it among various suggestions provided by the teacher. The speed of data collecting is really impressive, but unfortunately, AnswerGarden has limited online time.

It should also be noticed, that AnswerGarden doesn’t fit for all types of questions. For example, teachers should avoid those, which are too long, as they imply even longer answers.

Giving instant feedback. Great tool for free staff lovers is Socrative. This software is equipped with multiple activity types, which may be used for different subjects and goals of educators. Among possible activities, there are quizzes, quick questions, exit tickets, etc.

Socrative has an intuitive colorful interface, easy in use, and apps for both students and teachers. The tool allows educators to analyze learners’ results in a real-time by getting instant feedbacks. Quizzes may be created in seconds and shared with other teachers.

Tracking the progress. Plickers is another real-time educational software allowing to get data for an assessment? This is a comprehensive tool helping a teacher to understand where the students exactly are in terms of progress.

Though Plickers is a serious instrument for digital assessing, many students consider it to be a fun game, what makes studying process even easier.

The results may be seen in two mode types: student’s and graphic. The graphic mode allows a teacher to see the way learners make their decisions, while student’s mode help to track what they answer or miss.

Assigning the survey. Widely-used survey-kind tool for student assessments is Google Forms.

Google Forms allows creating questions with possible answers even if exam should start in few minutes. Images and even videos may be uploaded to accompany the survey.

Teachers may also add collaborators to their Google Forms and collaborate on the survey together. Besides, the tool is free and will greatly serve for any type of a group.

To sum up

There are various digital assessment tools that serve different purposes in educational environment. Those of them helping to avoid plagiarism in student writings are highly important as well. Teachers will find these tools useful, as they will help them to track the progress that students make, and provide them with more objective feedback and final grade.

Want to get some new ideas for new tools or resources you can use in the New Year to make teaching and learning more effective? Then join us for our monthly Twitter chat at 7:00 pm EST where #NYCSchoolsTech educators will share the favorite #EdTech tools they've been using this year.

#NYCSchoolTech teacher Eileen Lennon moderates with me throwing in my two cents. We will also be joined by some leading ed tech companies who will share what you can look forward to in 2018.

You can prepare for the conversation by thinking about answers to these questions:

Q1 Share your favorite #edtech tool for this school year w/a link & why you love it. #NYCSchoolsTechChat

Q2 Look at the #EdTech 11 tools fr @CommonSenseEd. Share which you <3 the best & why #NYCSchoolsTechChat https://www.commonsense.org/education/blog/the-edtech-eleven-this-months-must-know-tools

Q3 Connect w/ someone who has shared an #edtech tool you’re interested in by asking them a question abt the tool #NYCSchoolsTechChat

Q4 What are the most important factors you look at when choosing #edtech tools? https://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/12/choosing-right-edtech-resources.html #NYCSchoolsTechChat

Q5 Give a shout out by RT, like, or reply to someone who has inspired you in today's #NYCSchoolsTechChat

Chat details are below:

• Date: Thursday, January 4
• Time: 7:00 pm
• Topic: New #EdTech tools for the new year.
• Your Host: @eileen_lennon (@NYCSchools)
• Co-Host: @InnovativeEdu (@NYCSchools)

Remember to respond using the hashtag #NYCSchoolsTechChat and include the number of the question you are answering in your response i.e. A1 and your answer.

We hope you can view the chat live, but if you are unable, please visit our archive at https://www.participate.com/chats/nycschoolstechchat. You can also participate in the chat at that link or if you have an iPhone download the app at https://www.participate.com/apps (coming to Android soon).

Lisa Nielsen writes for and speaks to audiences across the globe about learning innovatively and is frequently covered by local and national media for her views on “Passion (not data) Driven Learning,” "Thinking Outside the Ban" to harness the power of technology for learning, and using the power of social media to provide a voice to educators and students. Ms. Nielsen has worked for more than a decade in various capacities to support learning in real and innovative ways that will prepare students for success. In addition to her award-winning blog, The Innovative Educator, Ms. Nielsen’s writing is featured in places such as Huffington Post, Tech & Learning, ISTE Connects, ASCD Wholechild, MindShift, Leading & Learning, The Unplugged Mom, and is the author the book Teaching Generation Text.

Disclaimer: The information shared here is strictly that of the author and does not reflect the opinions or endorsement of her employer.

• Edshelf is a search engine for web tools and apps and many have teacher reviews. You can filter by price, platform, subject, age, and category. No registration is required, but if you register for a free account then you can save your favorite web tools and apps to virtual shelves.
• Common Sense is also a search engine for education tools and apps with ratings and reviews.
• In addition to doing a search for a type of project (comics, poster, games, infographics, grammar, Math, etc.) on TeacherRebootCamp or ShellyTerrell.com, you can search for teacher recommended web tools and apps on these blogs/websites:
  • I Learn Technology
  • Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day
  • Class Tech Tips
  • Russell Stannard
  • Free Tech for Teachers
  • Ozge Karaoglu (Language Learning Focus)
  • Nik Peachey (Language Learning Focus)
  • Technology Tidbits
• I Learn Technology
• Larry Ferlazzo’s Websites of the Day
• Class Tech Tips
• Russell Stannard
• Free Tech for Teachers
• Ozge Karaoglu (Language Learning Focus)
• Nik Peachey (Language Learning Focus)
• Technology Tidbits

cross posted at teacherrebootcamp.com

Shelly Terrell is an education consultant, technology trainer, and author. Read more at teacherrebootcamp.com.

Software & Online

11TREES ANNOTATE PRO
(www.11trees.com)

11trees.com announced new versions of their Annotate PRO apps for Office365 and Google Chrome, making it easy for teachers to create impactful feedback for learners. Optimized for Google Docs, Microsoft Word, Canvas, Google Classroom - the platforms you already love - Annotate PRO brings lightning fast access to comment libraries so you can write once, mindfully, and reuse forever. Collaborate to share libraries meaningful to your curriculum or select from a growing selection of 11trees’ content.

ALMA MODERN SIS AND DATA INFRASTRUCTURE PLATFORM
(www.GetAlma.com) & (www.schoology.com)

Alma Technologies, Inc. announces it has integrated its K-12 student information system (SIS) with the learning management system (LMS) from Schoology. The new partnership enables schools and districts to customize a solution that supports their unique teaching and learning needs and helps them achieve their progressive educational goals. The solution unites SIS and LMS capabilities along with reporting, analytics, grades and assessment tracking, scheduling, enrollment, school-to-home communications, and more to support the entire learning community.

BENCHMARK EDUCATION SOUND SPELLING TRANSFER KIT
(www.benchmarkeducation.com)

Benchmark Education Company (BEC) announced a new Sound-Spelling Transfer Kit to support students in grades K–2 as they become bilingual readers in English and Spanish. The cross-linguistic Sound-Spelling Transfer Kit provides routines, literacy manipulatives, picture-word cards and other resources to facilitate intentional, strategic and systematic cross-linguistic instruction. Assessment tools are included as an online, downloadable print resource to facilitate monitoring students’ biliteracy trajectories. Each lesson includes suggestions for formative assessment and dictation.

BOXLIGHT MIMIOCONNECT
(www.mimioconnect.com)

Boxlight’s has announced MimioConnect, a website for thousands of free lesson plans and activities, many of them teacher-created. The lesson plans span the preK-12 curriculum and include world languages, history and social studies, and much more. Additionally, MimioConnect users have access to monthly calendar and morning meeting packs, which are content bundles that contain lessons, activities and other materials that support instruction for that particular month.

CAPSTONE COMMUNITY
(www.myCapstone.com)

Capstone announced Capstone Community, an online forum for educators to find resources and communicate with a community of PebbleGo and PebbleGo Next users. The forum includes a “Resources” section which features lesson plans, activities, videos and more. The “Discussions” board connects users with each other and is a place for them to post questions and discuss ideas. The “Find Answers” section offers technical support with answers to FAQs and allows users to create new cases.

CEV MULTIMEDIA CTE COURSE FOR ASPIRING TEACHERS
(www.icevonline.com/courses/instructional-practices-education-training)

CEV Multimedia announces the release of an instructional practices in education and training course to enable future educators to begin preparing for their careers sooner. Offered through iCEV, an online learning platform, the instructional practices in education and training course offers 20 lessons which cover educational assessments, learning styles, special education and more. This course also identifies ethical conduct, professional development, career preparation, and the many opportunities for students in the teaching and training industry.

CLASSFLOW IKEEPSAFE STUDENT PRIVACY CERTIFICATIONS
(www.classflow.com)

ClassFlow was recognized by iKeepSafe for its compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Student Online Personal Information Protection Act (SOPIPA). As part of this achievement, ClassFlow will display both the FERPA and SOPIPA badges to note that the software has been assessed and approved by iKeepSafe. In order to keep the badge, iKeepSafe conducts an annual renewal to ensure that ClassFlow remains in good standing with FERPA and SOPIPA.

CLEVERBOOKS AR GEOMETRY WORKBOOK
(www.cleverbooks.eu/cleverbooks-argeometry-app/)

CleverBooks presented to the public their Geometry Workbook for Primary school that has Free Augmented Reality (AR) Learning solution incorporated to it and announced the launch of a new product – free Geography App with AR. CleverBooks aims to complement traditional teaching with innovative technology and focusing on primary education sector. The application for all subjects is free to use to provide all children with access to innovative technology and help them exceed their learning.

DREAMBOX LEARNING ASSIGNFOCUS BY PRINT PROGRAM
(www.dreambox.com)

DreamBox Learning announced AssignFocus by Print Program, a new capability that provides teachers with a strong connection between DreamBox Learning Math and their classroom curriculum. With AssignFocus, educators can create comprehensive and differentiated math experiences for students by blending the power of DreamBox Learning’s online K-8 math solution with popular print programs like Eureka, EngageNY, and Contexts for Learning Mathematics. This represents the newest application of DreamBox Learning’s technology to support teaching and learning.

DISCOVERY EDUCATION AND TATA CONSULTANCY
(www.discoveryeducation.com) and (www.tcs.com)

Tata Consultancy Services and Discovery Education have partnered to launch Ignite My Future in School, an initiative aiming to prepare one million students for 21st century careers by 2021. It will equip over 20,000 teachers nationwide with resources to get students solving problems at an advanced level through computational thinking. The initiative will connect teachers to leaders in education and technology, providing them with hands-on experience they can bring back to their classrooms.

EMMA IDENTITY
(emmaidentity.com)

Emma Identity is a brand new product from the developers of Unicheck, professional full-fledged plagiarism checker for higher education and K-12. Emma technology utilizes Natural Language Processing (NLP, the field of the AI) to learn a person’s individual writing style and determine whether all the subsequent texts you upload belong to the same author. Effective authorship attribution with regards to the students’ papers could become a unique solution to detect and prevent contract plagiarism.

GOZEN! OCD ONLINE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
(www.gozen.com)

GoZen! has unveiled an animated, online educational program that teaches kids how to manage and understand Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The online program serves as an approachable mentor and speaks to kids in a way that is engaging, entertaining and compassionate. The unique animations are designed for use at home, schools, and by therapists and keep children wanting to learn more while striving to allow them to embrace their individuality.

HOONUIT EARLY WARNING SOLUTION
(www.hoonuit.com)

The Hoonuit Early Warning solution helps educators identify at-risk students early and integrate the intervention workflow to track the progress of each implementation. The solution uses predictive analytics based on proven research to streamline the execution of intervention strategies through a user-friendly interface. The solution’s user experience fits into an educator’s workflow, giving the visualization on mobile and desktop devices, identifying where to provide additional support to specific students, and then track each strategy’s effect.

IXL LEARNING IXL SPANISH
(www.ixl.com/spanish/level-1)

IXL Learning introduced IXL Spanish as its first world language curriculum. IXL Spanish covers Level 1 Spanish curriculum and is geared towards middle and high school students. In addition to Spanish, IXL covers math, English language arts, science and social studies, and is aligned to the Common Core and all state standards. IXL offers 10 free practice questions each day for students not subscribed to IXL; subscribers can practice unlimited questions across all grade levels.

INSIGHT ADVANCE
(www.insightadvance.com)

Insight ADVANCE announced the launch of powerful real-time data and data management features to complement its ADVANCEfeedback solution, an online tool used in K-12 and higher education for educator self-reflection and evaluation. ADVANCEfeedback allows teachers to record and upload video to share with peers and request feedback through embedded notes at key moments in the video. Administrators can also track observations in progress, ensure teachers and observers are paired appropriately, and more.

LEGENDS OF LEARNING & PHET INTERACTIVE SIMULATIONS
(www.legendsoflearning.com) & (phet.colorado.edu)

Legends of Learning and University of Colorado Boulder’s PhET Interactive Simulations project announced a partnership that will bring thousands of educational games, assessment items, and simulations to middle school science students. Ten interactive simulations for middle school sciences will be hosted on the Legends of Learning platform this month with more coming in the future. Teachers now have a comprehensive library of engaging content and interactive exercises for their classroom as well.

MICROSOFT EDUCATION
(www.microsoft.com/en-us/education)

Microsoft announced Microsoft 365 Education – a single, affordable technology solution built for education. Microsoft 365 Education brings together Office 365, Windows 10, Intune for Education, Minecraft: Education Edition and Enterprise Mobility + Security, getting schools up and running faster through simplified acquisition and deployment, eliminating wasted time and delivering new capabilities to teachers and students to help them learn and work in new ways. Additional management and security features are also included.

NETSUPPORT DNA VERSION 4.5: EDUCATION EDITION
(www.netsupportschool.com)

NetSupport has announced the latest update to its IT Asset Management solution, NetSupport DNA: version 4.5 – Education Edition. Having extended its support to include iOS and Chrome as well as enhancing Mac OS X, the Education Edition of NetSupport DNA can now monitor and support users in a multiplatform environment. It also features real-time monitoring, internet metering, internet safety tools, keyword alerting, new user management features, and more.

NWEA AND PEARSON SUCCESSMAKER
(www.nwea.org) & (www.pearson.com/us/)

NWEA announced a partnership with Pearson to provide individualized instructional opportunities in math and literacy to students on Pearson’s SuccessMaker. SuccessMaker is an adaptive digital learning platform where instruction adjusts to reflect student responses and guide each learner toward targeted performance goals. SuccessMaker also gives real-time feedback to educators. With insights from MAP Growth and RIT scores, SuccessMaker can generate a customized instructional path in math and literacy designed to support each student’s success.

ORIGO EDUCATION EARLY GEOMETRY CONCEPTS
(www.origoeducation.com) & (www.edweb.net)

ORIGO Education introduced Early Geometry Concepts: Making Connections to the Real World, the fifth in the series of free, live stream videos posted on edWeb.net, a popular web community for professional development and networking among PreK-12 and post-secondary educators. Mathematics for Young Learners, is part of ORIGO Education’s professional learning community about mathematics. Educators may join ORIGO’s community to watch previously recorded sessions and receive notifications about upcoming edWebinars.

SIEMENS AND HP SIEMENS NX AM FOR HP MULTI JET FUSION
(www.siemens.com) and (www.hp.com)

HP Inc. and Siemens have announced a new software module, Siemens NX AM for HP Multi Jet Fusion. The NX software module will allow customers to develop and manage parts in a single software environment for their HP 3D Printing projects, avoid costly, time-consuming data conversions and third-party tools, and improve workflow efficiency. Siemens and HP are also helping enable designers and engineers to expand opportunities for the industrial 3D printing of innovative designs.

SECOND STEP PROGRAM AND PANORAMA EDUCATION
(www.secondstep.org) & (www.panoramaed.com)

The Second Step Program and Panorama Education announced a new partnership to help schools and districts nationwide understand and develop students’ social-emotional skills. Now schools and districts that use Panorama can administer social-emotional learning assessments and reports that align with the social, emotional, and relational skills fostered by the Second Step Program. The partnership between these programs supports district administrators, principals, counselors, and teachers who are focused on growing students’ social, emotional, and relationship skills.

STUDYSYNC
(www.studysync.com)

StudySync has two new additions in its array of teacher tools. An embedded gradebook provides a user-friendly format for analyzing students’ progress on assignments. Users can filter gradebook entries and view student grades. An enhanced StudySync search tool makes it easier for teachers to search StudySync’s lessons library for specific standards. Teachers can use the tool to view how often a standard was covered by assignments as well as individual student mastery of the standard.

TEXTHELP AND DESMOS
(www.texthelp.com) & (www.desmos.com)

Texthelp announced its partnership with Desmos, which will integrate Desmos’s graphing solution into EquatIO, the tool that makes it easy to create equations, formulas and other mathematical expressions digitally. With the addition of Desmos’s API, EquatIO users can add graphing to its list of capabilities. Desmos’s graphing solution will be integrated into the web app, ‘EquatIO mathspace,’ followed by ‘EquatIO for Google,’ the Chrome Extension, and ‘EquatIO for Windows and Mac,’ the desktop offerings.

TINYBOP SCHOOLS
(tinybopschools.com)

Tinybop, Inc. has launched Tinybop Schools — web-based interactive STEM for the classroom — to make science more accessible to young students, on any computer or device. Suitable for grades K-5, Tinybop Schools teaches science literacy through exploration and discovery in interactive STEM models. The models cover a variety of topics: anatomy, zoology, geography, physics, geology, meteorology, engineering, and astronomy. Tinybop Schools also offer data-driven metrics to help teachers keep track of their students’ progress.

THE BEACON PERIODIC TABLE OF TECHNOLOGY
(fios.verizon.com/beacon/periodic-table-of-tech-intro/)

The Beacon at Verizon Fios have created a periodic table of technology to teach about science and technology by showing how elements are used in everyday tech-use. By clicking on the table, users can inspect the list and find a brief description next to each element detailing its applicability in technology. For example, users can learn of hydrogen’s use in clean energy tech, helium’s cooling properties when applied to satellite instruments, and more.

UL XPLORLABS
(ulxplorlabs.org/fire-forensics/)

UL Xplorlabs has released its new module, Fire Forensics: Claims and Evidence. The interactive module is designed to give students a first-hand look at what it takes to read a fire scene and build a claim for the fire’s location of origin and cause. Detailed teacher guides, interactive videos and investigations, and student worksheets to deepen understanding of the principles of fire. A fun, interactive environment for students to learn from scientists solving real-world problems.

Hardware

Epson (www.epson.com) announced the Epson PowerLite 685W Ultra Short-Throw Presentation Display for SMART (home.smarttech.com). The PowerLite 685W for SMART leverages Epson’s proprietary 3LCD technology which offers up to 3x higher color brightness than competitive models. The new presentation display offers seamless integration with the SMART Extended Control Panel (ECP), delivers 3,500 lumens of color and white brightness, and offers WXGA resolution versatile connectivity to meet a variety of classroom needs.

Shure (www.shure.com) is shipping the ANIUSB-MATRIX and the ANI22. The ANIUSB-MATRIX connects four Microflex Advance or Microflex Wireless microphone channels to a room’s audio/video conferencing system or a PC-based soft codec through USB or analog. The ANI22 can connect up to two line/mic signals to a Dante network for easy audio routing and convenient browser-based remote control. The ANI22 features a compact form factor and Power-over-Ethernet eliminates the need for an outboard power supply.

NEC Display Solutions of America (www.necdisplay.com) announced updates to its line of Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) compliant computers that integrate directly into displays to produce rich content and expand functionality. The OPS computers now include 64-bit Windows 10 Pro as well as updated Intel dual and quad-core processors, among other features. In addition, the OPS-TCISPS includes Intel’s powerful Vpro technology, providing hardware-enhanced security with multifactor identity protection and remote access to help reduce IT operating costs.

Lumens Integration Inc. (www.MyLumens.com) introduced the new VC-B30U HDPTZ USB 3.0 camera. The PTZ camera comes in Full HD, 1080p, 60fps resolution and a 12x optical zoom lens. The camera comes with a 72° horizontal view angle to cover the span of medium to large sized rooms. The HDMI and USB interface is able to output video simultaneously. The camera is applicable for educational classrooms, meeting rooms, medical facilities and other environments.

Software & Online

ABCMOUSE FOR SCHOOLS
(www.abcmouseforschools.com)

ABCmouse for Schools announced the launch of new product features to help students become third-grade ready. A reimagined Teacher Homepage helps teachers plan and build lessons and monitor class progress. Student Information System Integration streamlines the process of rostering and provides ongoing data about progress and usage at the student level and beyond. A new Mastering Math app and over 100 Spanish-language learning activities have been added and families can access these without Internet connectivity.

ACTIONTEC ELECTRONICS
(www.ScreenBeam.com)

Actiontec Electronics, Inc., announced the launch of ScreenBeam Classroom Commander, a wireless classroom orchestration solution for Windows 10/10 S-equipped classrooms. The solution promotes real-time interaction with wireless touch and touch back support, and enhances learning and problem solving with support of wireless inking, native in Windows programs. The solution also provides an environment that optimizes collaboration and focus in the classroom and even allows for students to share their work from their desks.

AEROHIVE NETWORKS HIVEMANAGER NG VIRTUAL APPLIANCE
(www.aerohive.com)

Aerohive Networks announced the release of its new HiveManager NG Virtual Appliance, a full-featured, unified network-management system with the most economical on-premises deployment model on the market. Customers can now manage thousands of devices and experience the full power of Aerohive’s cloud networking, deployed on their site, at a price that fits their budget. HiveManager NG Virtual Appliance includes the same advanced features for monitoring, security, and access management as Aerohive’s public cloud solution.

ALMA TECHNOLOGIES REPORTING TOOL
(www.getalma.com)

Alma Technologies, Inc., announced an expanded suite of reporting tools with a custom reporting wizard that is intuitive enough for all staff, including classroom teachers, to build their own reports with little to no training. Teachers can pull reports that matter to their classroom and share with colleagues such as those on attendance and performance, while principals can create reports on matters such as overall pass rates by teacher, class, and course.

BLOOMZ AND AZTEA
(www.bloomz.net) (https://aztea.org)

Bloomz, a leader in the parent-teacher communication space, has partnered with the Arizona Technology in Education Association (AZTEA) to cultivate the connective and collaborative power of educational technology for educators and parents. As part of the partnership, Bloomz will also recognize Arizona teachers for their excellence in stimulating parental engagement through the use of Bloomz. AZTEA will promote Bloomz to its members throughout the 2017–2018 school year as the parent-teacher communication app of choice.

CATCHON
(http://getcatchon.com)

CatchOn has introduced its proprietary iOS solution, which provides the first-ever visibility into native app usage. CatchOn is now the only tool that provides real-time evidence to help administrators hone their classroom technology without interrupting instruction. The tool provides granular evidence on what’s happening digitally in classrooms, enabling district leaders to make decisions about app use, implementation fidelity, cost, and ROI. In addition to iOS, current operability includes Mac OS, Windows Surface, Android, and Chromebook.

CISCO AND SURATION
(www.cisco.com) and (www.suration.com)

Cisco has announced a partnership with Suration to deliver a comprehensive content curation solution for Cisco’s education customers. Suration provides personalized content albums to accommodate different learning styles, embedded Cisco collaboration tools, and vetted content that maps to school district pacing guides, standards, assessments, libraries, courses, and more. Through this partnership, Cisco is reducing unnecessary keystrokes, searches, and activities that inhibit teachers from focusing on valuable instruction.

CLASSTAG PERSONALIZED COMMUNICATIONS
(www.classtag.com)

ClassTag is the first service to support personalized, meaningful, two-way communication with parents, regardless of what devices they use, even if they are entirely offline. With its new release, ClassTag bridges the gap between families using technology and those completely offline to reach 100% of families. If a family isn’t being reached via email, sms, website, or mobile app, the smart assistant will recommend printing a personalized flyer to be sent home in children’s backpacks.

CODEMONKEY GAME BUILDER PLATFORM
(www.playcodemonkey.com)

CodeMonkey launches the Game Builder platform as an additional feature to the series of basic coding courses. The Game Builder’s three interactive online courses feature different elements of the game-creation skill set that culminate to instruct the overall programming and design process. Along with CodeMonkey’s Game Builder free-style game design mode, the distinct courses offer a supportive environment for students to apply their coding skills and create their own games.

CURRICULUM PATHWAYS
(www.curriculumpathways.com)

Innovative teachers are using CodeSnaps, a no-cost app from the makers of Curriculum Pathways, to integrate CS concepts into other subjects. CodeSnaps teaches coding basics by enticing students to work together, hands-on, to control Sphero, an app-enabled robotic ball that students command using code and an iPad. CodeSnaps can be used in any learning environment, including traditional and blended classrooms, 1-to-1, or at home. The collaborative coding activity requires one Sphero robot and one tablet.

CYPHER LEARNING NEO
(www.cypherlearning.com)

Cypher Learning has released NEO, a learning management system (LMS) for schools and universities. NEO offers a centralized environment for creating classes, organizing learning material, assigning and submitting homework, taking assessments, collaborating with classmates, and analyzing results. It also provides an intuitive user interface, extensive feature set, gamified elements to boost student retention, and analytical reporting tools for tracking students’ progress. It is even customizable, letting schools brand NEO with their school’s identity.

DEFINED LEARNING
(www.definedlearning.com)

Defined STEM, a web-based curriculum resource by Defined Learning, recently announced the launch of its redesigned website. Performance tasks are now broken down into four steps: Set the Stage, Explore the Background, Do the Research, and Create the Product. New to the Set the Stage step are open-ended questions to provide context and encourage critical thinking. The Design Process section is completely new and lays out the steps students must follow to reach their goals.

DISCOVERY EDUCATION
(www.discoveryeducation.com)

Discovery Education announced a number of new features will be added to its Streaming services. This latest iteration will feature an updated look and feel that is optimized to work on small and large devices, in the classroom, and on-the-go. Also, the content-creation tools within the service’s new Studio feature will be expanded to allow teachers and students to collaborate in real-time on virtual projects. Additional STEM-focused resources will also be added.

D2L BRIGHTSPACE FOR K-12
(www.d2l.com)

D2L announces Brightspace for K-12, an upgrade to its blended learning solution that provides an engaging experience for all students. With this release, D2L extends the classroom by offering a new Activity Feed, standards-aligned lessons, a parent engagement experience, complete mobility, and third-party integrations with platforms like Google Drive, YouTube, and Office 365. In addition to traditional subject matters, children can learn 21st-century skills such as creativity, communication, and teamwork for lifelong benefit.

EDMENTUM
(www.edmentum.com)

Edmentum is releasing new enhancements to its products. Study Island enhancements will include an improved educator experience that elevates standards alignment and prompts simpler assignment creation. Courseware enhancements will increase educators’ ability to monitor student performance toward course completion through intuitive data views, giving teachers more insight into students’ academic growth. Exact Path enhancements will present norm-referenced data that allows teachers to compare student performance to national norms to track progress and growth trends.

FUNDS FOR LEARNING
(www.fundsforlearning.com)

Funds For Learning has conducted its annual E-Rate applicant survey to gather insights about the 2017 filing window in order to understand how the education program serves schools and libraries. According to initial feedback, E-Rate recipients continue to rely on E-Rate funding to provide connectivity for schools and libraries nationwide. To aid policymakers, administrators, and other E-Rate stakeholders, the full survey will be released this fall to help inform the administration of the E-Rate program.

GETTING SMART SOCIAL LEARNING AND MINECRAFT REPORT
(http://www.gettingsmart.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Minecraft-and-SEL-Release-.pdf)

A new report, “How Minecraft Supports Social and Emotional Learning in K–12 Education,” published by Getting Smart, investigates the connection between classroom use of Minecraft and the social and emotional learning (SEL) outcomes of K– 12 students. Based on responses gathered from educators representing 11 countries across four continents, the report is a deeper dive into the ways educators are incorporating gaming into their lessons via its Minecraft: Education Edition to support their students’ SEL growth.

GRADECAM
(https://gradecam.com/aita)

GradeCam introduced two new question types to their current array: Handwritten Numeric and Rubric With Capture. Powered by Aita—Artificial Intelligence Teaching Assistant—Handwritten Numeric questions enable students to bypass the bubble grid and write out their numeric answers. The Rubric With Capture question type works with Aita to let students write up short answers and then digitally capture and incorporate them onto an answer sheet for teachers to grade from their devices.

HOONUIT
(www.hoonuit.com)

Atomic Learning and Versifit have announced its transformation to one corporate brand: Hoonuit. The rebranding exemplifies the evolution of the companies into a comprehensive suite of data analytics and professional development tools that together provide educators the knowledge and insight to maximize success in the classroom. A new solution, Hoonuit Early Warning, demonstrates these extended capabilities using predictive analytics and allows educators to log observational behavior, take action, and measure outcomes in one central location.

HP AND KIRAKIRA3D
(www.hp.com) and (https://classes.kirakira.com)

KiraKira3D announced its partnership with HP to produce a new series of approachable, video-based lessons to teach 3D design skills using the Sprout Pro by HP 3D scanning and printing platform. The video lessons—most of which feature female instructors who are engineers, animators, designers, architects, and computer scientists—teach basics in Autodesk TinkerCAD and Maya, Fusion 360, Solidworks, Rhino 3D and other design, animation, and 3D modeling software.

IMPERO
(www.imperosoftware.com)

Impero Software has announced several new products. Impero Edlink is a mobile device management solution that allows schools to manage multiple mobile devices while also safeguarding students online. Impero Insight is a cloud-based, cross-server reporting and analytics tool that pulls a school or district’s data (collected by Impero Education Pro on one or across multiple servers) into interactive graphical reports that highlight trends in keyword detection and online safety across a school or district.

KAHOOT! NEW MOBILE APP
(www.kahoot.com)

Kahoot! has announced its new mobile app. The new app, designed for iOS and Android, brings the magic of game-based learning outside the classroom: Teachers can send after-class challenges to students as homework, and learners can continue playing for revision and fun anywhere. The app will also appeal to teachers who can extend learning beyond the classroom by challenging students to play a Kahoot at home on their own time, either alone or with classmates.

KIKO LABS THINKING TIME
(www.kikolabs.com)

Kiko Labs announced several enhancements to Kiko’s Thinking Time, including accessibility on iOS devices, Android tablets, and desktop browsers. Designed for children ages 4 to 7, the program targets skills required for school success. The latest release brings the total number of games up to 25. Together, the adaptive games include thousands of questions that train memory, inhibition, focus, and more, including several new exercises that incorporate Common Core-aligned math content to reinforce cognitive skills.

LIGHTSPEED
(www.lightspeed-tek.com)

Lightspeed unveiled its new logo and corporate identity, along with its new Activate instructional audio and video platform. Lightspeed is expanding its focus to helping educators effectively use instructional audio and video systems to improve student achievement in the areas of whole-classroom instruction, group learning, and collaboration. Among the new products include the Activate app, helping educators to capture and share audio and video in the classroom and serving as a coaching resource for teachers.

MINDPLAY
(http://mindplay.com)

MindPlay announced that the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) has officially endorsed the company’s Virtual Reading Coach as a product that continues to meet the needs of special education students. Research- and evidenced-based, MindPlay offers a range of user statistics and testimonials attesting to their product’s impact on student outcomes. The solution addresses readers with dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and cognitive disabilities, as well as readers looking to strengthen literacy skills in general.

MAKERBOT MY MAKERBOT AND EDUCATORS GUIDEBOOK
(www.makerbot.com)

MakerBot has announced the release of My MakerBot, a cloud-based platform, and MakerBot Educators Guidebook. The new My MakerBot is a Chromebook-compatible, in-browser platform that gives users the ability to upload and prepare files, print, then monitor their progress from any device, anywhere. The Guidebook features a course in 3D design, printing, and it provides nine classroom-ready 3D printing lesson plans as well. The projects all feature teacher-friendly instructions and the core standards they meet.

MICROSOFT WEVIDEO
(www.wevideo.com)

WeVideo announced that its cloud-based collaborative video editing application is available as part of the new Microsoft Windows experience for K-12 classrooms. WeVideo provides students and teachers with an extensive creative toolset that includes video editing, graphics, green screen, voice-over, special effects, and more, making it perfect for any project and subject area. Cloud syncing allows users to start a project on one device and continue on any other, at home, on campus, or anywhere.

NEARPOD AND BBC WORLDWIDE LEARNING
(https://nearpod.com) and (www.bbcworldwidelearning.com)

Nearpod announced the launch of new digital lessons using groundbreaking programming and timely documentaries from the BBC. Now, for the first time ever, teachers can teach topics related to the environment, technology, and more, through Nearpod’s engaging classroom technology assisted by content from the BBC Worldwide Learning catalogue. By combining its interactive features with high-quality content, Nearpod is arming teachers with powerful educational content designed to help kids succeed in the 21st century.

NETAPP AND MICROSOFT
(www.netapp.com) and (https://news.microsoft.com)

NetApp announced plans to expand its strategic alliance with Microsoft to help enterprises accelerate digital transformation for hybrid cloud. Collaboration areas include developing new NetApp ONTAP-based cloud data services offered on the Azure cloud; engineering collaboration to deliver a solution architecture that will speed the migration of enterprise applications to Azure and Azure Stack; integration of NetApp’s newly launched FabricPool functionality, and enablement of Azure as a backup destination for NetApp’s Cloud Control SaaS offering.

NETSUPPORT DNA
(www.netsupport-inc.com)

NetSupport announced the release of NetSupport DNA, an IT Asset Management solution that contains a toolbox of features allowing technicians to monitor and manage all IT assets across a school, campus or district—saving time, reducing costs, while also adding an extra layer of security. Additionally, its student toolbar feature highlights lesson objectives and expected outcomes, allowing teachers to deliver targeted student and peer assessment with a Q&A module, surveys, or pre-prepared tests.

NUREVA HDL300 AUDIO CONFERENCING SYSTEM
(www.nureva.com)

Nureva Inc. announces the general availability of its HDL300 audio conferencing system. At the core of the HDL300 system is Nureva’s Microphone Mist technology, which places 8,192 virtual microphones throughout a meeting room to pick up sound from any location. The system’s audio processing unit can handle 15,000 MIPS, using virtual microphones, continuous self-calibration, simultaneous echo cancellation, position-based automatic gain control, and sound masking. The system is designed for common UC&C applications.

OFFICE 365 MICROSOFT TEAMS
(www.office.com)

Office 365 has announced their new classroom experiences in Microsoft Teams are now rolling out to Office 365 for Education customers. Teams helps create engaging classroom environments with rich conversations including text, video and voice, and more. Lesson planning and content creation is done through integrated Office apps. If faculty and students don’t already have Office 365 for Education, they can get it for free with a valid school email address and then access Teams.

PARROT EDUCATION CURRICULUM
(http://edu.parrot.com)

Parrot Education by Parrot is expanding its education curriculum worldwide, offering programs for elementary, middle school, higher education, field researchers, and developers. In addition, Parrot Education has developed strong collaborations with companies such as Tynker, Apple, Workbench, and Mathworks so educators can teach students STEM skills, such as geometry, science, art, physics, and coding, and so kids can continue to learn coding at home, particularly through Parrot drones and “Parrot Flight School.”

PEARSON REALIZE LMS GOOGLE CLASSROOM INTEGRATION
(www.pearson.com)

Pearson unveiled the latest version of its Realize learning management system (LMS), featuring an integration with the free education tool, Google Classroom. The Classroom integration can save teachers time and help them to improve instruction and learning, as they can easily access and choose premium digital content from the LMS, assign the materials, communicate, and collaborate with their students via Google Classroom. Through Google Classroom, teachers can get access to Google Drive, Sheets, and Slides.

PERFORMANCE MATTERS AND TEACHING LEARNING SOLUTIONS
(www.performancematters.com) and (www.teachinglearningsolutions.com)

Performance Matters announced a new module for its Calibration tool, which includes training on the process of being a classroom observer. Created in partnership with Teaching Learning Solutions, the Performance Matters Calibration tool helps districts measure observer accuracy and improve interrater reliability to create consistency and fairness in educator evaluations. With this training module, districts can now access new courses designed to teach observers how to conduct evidence-based observations and conversations to promote continuous growth.

POWERSCHOOL
(www.powerschool.com)

PowerSchool implemented major updates to its Unified Classroom platform. With an enhanced student-centric approach to learning, the Unified Classroom connects the classroom and home in a single solution. Improved data-driven instruction enables educators to individualize instruction to drive student success. With the Unified Classroom, teachers, students and parents interact with a user-friendly dashboard to view key data and tasks, eliminating the need for multiple systems and giving teachers back time to spend on their students.

RENAISSANCE FLOW 360
(http://www.renaissance.com)

Renaissance announced the launch of Renaissance Flow 360, an innovative solution designed to make assessment-driven personalized learning a reality. The program includes a Mastery Dashboard, where educators have deep insight into student mastery by domain, standard, skill, or subskill. Educators can see this view at the classroom level and beyond—allowing teachers to decide which students need additional instruction or practice and giving administrators a clear picture of achievement and growth across the district.

SCHOOLDUDE HELP DESK
(www.schooldude.com)

SchoolDude by Dude Solutions launched Help Desk, a new and innovative IT help desk-management solution that simplifies the help desk process for K-12 and higher education institutions. Help Desk streamlines IT support communication between school staff or faculty and the IT department, enabling more efficient work-order management and improved asset tracking. Help Desk integrates with SchoolDude’s Technology Essentials’ Insight and Mobile Device Management solutions, resulting in a comprehensive IT asset-administration platform.

SMART TECHNOLOGIES
(https://home.smarttech.com)

SMART Technologies has developed a connected classroom suite incorporating displays and software that improve both learning experience and educational outcomes through a choice of technology options. Two new panel series feature SMART’s proprietary iQ technology that fully integrates software, content, and student contributions from devices on its SMART Board interactive displays. Teachers can also now move freely without being tied to a single computer or display; easier transitions reduce teacher stress and set-up time.

SMART TECHNOLOGIES & TES

(home.smarttech.com) and (www.tes.com)

SMART Technologies is partnering with Tes to launch an online space that gives educators

and education leaders tools and ideas for inspiring greatness and improving learning outcomes.The Inspiring Greatness hub brings together leading voices in education to give schools actionable insight on how to meet the challenge of unlocking student potential, and developing the unique greatness in every learner. Contributors include school leaders, classroom teachers, technology experts, education policy makers, and more.

SMOOTHWALL
(https://us.smoothwall.com)

Smoothwall announced a new cloud-based, remote filtering tool for the Chrome browser. Cloud Filter for Chrome enables districts to provide a customizable level of URL filtering on devices using the Chrome browsers when those devices are off-site and no longer connected to the school network. Providing a seamless experience, devices will switch automatically from on-premises filtering to cloud-based filtering once students leave the network.

STUDYSYNC
(www.studysync.com)

StudySync announced a new addition to the resources that make up its comprehensive blended ELA (English Language Arts)/ELL (English Language Learner) program for grades 6-12. The new Unit Creator tool allows teachers to create unique, specialized units from scratch. Teachers can draw from StudySync’s Blasts, Skills lessons, and text libraries, and select lessons from more than 1,200 fiction and nonfiction texts and text excerpts in StudySync’s digital library.

SKYWARD DISTRICT BRANDING
(www.skyward.com)

Skyward sets school districts up to pursue more efficient internal processes and improve school-to-home communications while also helping to attract and retain job candidates. Parents can take advantage of Skyward’s social media-style message board to communicate with teachers, and students get access to features like online assignments and future course requests. For businesses and human resources, Skyward offers an applicant tracking feature. With customized workflows, districts can personalize processes to provide employees with procedures unique to the district, increasing positive perceptions. Just as important, business offices can brand their human resources tasks and financial reports, improving visibility and top-of-mind awareness.

SWIVL RECAP 2.0
(www.letsrecap.com) and (www.swivl.com)

Swivl has announced Recap 2.0, a new version of its Q&A platform designed to allow educators to pose questions to students and gather video responses. Recap 2.0 now features a connection to Discover, a public Q&A site. The site then connects students to Journeys, a new approach that provides videos and links relevant to the question. This platform makes it easier for educators to shape class discussion around student questions.

TABPILOT
(www.tabpilot.com)

TabPilot has integrated custom workflow and tracking for teacher app requests. The Teacher App Request features are available in TabPilot 6.3, recently released worldwide. Teachers can request an app via pasting an iTunes URL or using the integrated App store. TabPilot 6.3 also introduces the ability for admins to build a catalog of approved apps to which teachers can be granted permissions to install or uninstall from devices, such as a classroom set.

TYNKER IPAD SUPPORT FOR EDUCATION CURRICULUM
(www.tynker.com)

Tynker announced iPad support for its coding curriculum, designed for K-6 classrooms. These courses, along with 18 brand new ones, will become available to schools across the country this fall. Tynker’s elementary school curriculum teaches students computer programming through fun, gamified lessons that ensure success at every level. The lesson plans, currently available for use in classrooms via desktop computers, will be introduced to schools everywhere via iPad this August.

TYPINGMASTER TYPETASTIC
(www.typingmaster.com)

TypingMaster Inc., has released its latest game-based course, TypeTastic, which is specially designed for elementary-school students. TypeTastic gets even the youngest students started typing by using just one finger to start. These pedagogical games are designed for both computers and touchscreen devices, providing easy access for everyone. The TypeTastic training course focuses first on teaching letter locations, hand-eye coordination, and typing with one finger. Within a few hours, the students can type short texts smoothly.

WEST CORPORATION SCHOOLMESSENGER APP
(www.schoolmessenger.com)

West Corporation recently unveiled the SchoolMessenger app. This new mobile and web application in the SchoolMessenger solutions family—available for free as a mobile app for iOS and Android devices and as a browser-based application—brings together teacher and classroom messaging technology with school- and district-level notifications, putting a complete app for school communications at parents’ fingertips. With the SchoolMessenger app, parents can engage in two-way conversations with teachers, school groups, and more via optional add-on modules.

WORKBENCH
(www.workbenchplatform.com)

Workbench has added partners Dremel, Pai Technology, and Robolink to create online communities where makers, fans, students, and educators can access projects that use 3D printers, robots, and drones. Workbench and Dremel will create an online hub focused on the Dremel DigiLab 3D printer. Workbench and Robolink will create Basecamp to help users train for Robolink’s robotics and drone competitions. Workbench and Pai Technology will have their hub focused on coding/augmented reality robot, Augie.

WORKBENCH CODING TOOLS
(www.workbenchplatform.com)

Workbench announced new features for its education platform that allows students to work through progressively complex lessons. Among Workbench’s new features is block-based programming for Parrot’s online community in which users write programs for their Parrot drones by dragging/dropping pieces of code. Workbench is also working with Parrot on a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol, lettings users use Bluetooth to send flight paths to the drone. Workbench now includes integration with Canvas and Engrade.

SMART Technologies (https://home.smarttech.com) has developed a connected classroom suite incorporating displays and software that improve both learning experience and educational outcomes through a choice of technology options. Two new panel series feature SMART’s proprietary iQ technology that fully integrates software, content, and student contributions from devices on its SMART Board interactive displays. Teachers can also now move freely without being tied to a single computer or display; easier transitions reduce teacher stress and set-up time.

Califone International (www.califone.com) announced the release of the CD360. The CD360 is designed specifically for regular classroom use, using shatterproof ABS plastic for safety and durability. With a Maximum Volume Limiter, the player ensures students are listening to content at a safe and appropriate level. The CD player features skip and search functions, a directory button, anti-shock button, and LCD display. The CD360 includes an 8200-HP digital stereo headphone and a one-year warranty.

Epson (www.epson.com) has announced the release of two new ultra short-throw laser displays for K-12 education. The BrightLink 710Ui and PowerLite 700U ultra short-throw laser displays leverage Epson’s proprietary 3LCD technology and integrated laser light source to deliver spectacular image quality, durability, and reliability. In addition, the BrightLink 710Ui is the world’s first 3LCD interactive laser projector. As for the PowerLite700U, it comes with 4000 lumens of white brightness and color brightness, delivering unmatched image quality.

LocknCharge (www.lockncharge.com) announces the release of the Sphero SPRK+ Charging Case. The aluminum Case is designed to store, secure, protect, and transport up to six Sphero SPRK+ robots. It also accommodates the robots’ inductive charging bases, maze tape, and protractors. Sphero SPRK+ robots are used in classrooms to inspire curiosity, creativity, and invention through connected play and coding, allowing students to easily learn programming, complete hands-on activities, and share their creations with the community.

NEC Display Solutions of America (www.necdisplay.com) announced the release of its 65-inch E651-T display. The 10-point integrated infrared touchscreen is a cost-conscious commercial-grade display targeting the K-12 education market. The display’s anti-glare, tempered glass protects the display from damage and also reduces the incidental fingerprinting and glare to preserve imagery on the screen. The display has a 140-watt power consumption and a media player that lets the display automatically switch to USB-loaded content while idle.

Software & Online

ASSIST 4.0 INTEGRATED EDUCATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
(www.assisteducation.com)

ASSIST LLC launches ASSIST 4.0, an Integrated Education Management System for K-12 and higher education students, teachers and administrators. The upgraded ASSIST 4.0 is available now for grades K-12 and higher education in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Vietnamese and can be adapted for other languages. It features Student Data Management that streamlines the admissions process, scheduling to track school-wide activities and dates, simplified and centralized payments and accounting, and provides hassle free and automatic official records and transcripts. Student Learning Management streamlines many other functions, including individualized learning plans, course completion certificates, resource sharing and collaboration and more. Finally, Curriculum Management provides seamless curriculum hosting, single sign-on and curriculum integration capabilities, and more.

BLACKBOARD CLASSROOM
(www.blackboard.com)

Blackboard has recently unveiled Blackboard Classroom, a comprehensive solution designed to help K-12 schools and districts differentiate instruction, increase student engagement, and boost teacher productivity. Blackboard Classroom integrates a comprehensive set of learning tools that districts can use to create a rich digital learning environment and support differentiated instruction at scale. The modern learning management solution incorporates both synchronous and asynchronous learning and collaboration tools to promote digital literacy and college and career readiness. Specific components include a personalized learning management system, HD video Web conferencing in real time, interactive digital content, mobile apps with responsive designs for students and parents, data-driven reporting at the class, school and district levels, and bidirectional data flows between Blackboard Classroom and student information systems.

CAPSTONE ADVOCACY VIDEO
(mycapstone.com)

Capstone, a leading publisher of children’s books and literacy programs, is excited to announce its partnership with the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) to help fund their educational video, “It’s on Us: The Stories of Public School Librarians.” The video will include personal stories from school librarians to show how they are innovating and evolving their roles every day. The goal of the project is to challenge common assumptions about what librarians do and, most importantly, what they can do for their communities. The finished video will be a valuable advocacy tool for librarians to show how they are supporting 21st-century learning.

CEV MULTIMEDIA
(www.icevonline.com)

CEV Multimedia announces the release of a new social media marketing course. The materials highlight concepts and best practices useful to students entering a marketing or business career path. Delivered through iCEV, teachers have access to an extensive playlist of videos, presentations, lab activities, assessments, lesson plans, and more to teach topics related to social media and marketing. Subscribers will also have access to more than 25 additional courses and curricula available on the iCEV platform. iCEV’s robust curriculum and training resources aid students in concept mastery and offer the potential to earn industry-backed certifications in their program of study. Through these programs, students in high school and college learn lifelong skills that translate directly into the workforce and post-secondary education programs.

CLASSFLOW LESSON DELIVERY SOFTWARE
(www.classflow.com)

Promethean has created an offline version of ClassFlow called ClassFlow Desktop that is now the software of choice for use with all Promethean interactive panels and displays. ClassFlow Desktop enables teachers to build and present interactive lessons in both offline and online computing environments. It provides educators with a suite of new and improved features, including a simplified user interface and functionality with Chromebooks, mobile PCs, and tablets. In addition, ClassFlow Desktop gives teachers access to an online global marketplace with millions of high-tech, interactive, and 3D multimedia lessons, resources, experiments, and simulations. It is available in 27 languages.

CLASSLINK ENHANCED SINGLE SIGN-ON METHODS
(www.classlink.com)

ClassLink has introduced enhanced single sign-on methods that create fast, easy, and secure access for teachers and students worldwide. They include ClassLink QuickCard, ClassLink Faces, and ClassLink Remote Login. QuickCard gives each person an ID card with a Quick Response (QR) code on it that can be waved in front of a computer or tablet to allow instant access. It can work from any device with a camera, including Chromebooks, laptops/desktops, iPads, other tablets, and mobile phones. Faces uses facial recognition software to allow users access when they take selfies and has similar functionality with the previously cited devices. Remote Login is a mobile app that lets an individual walk up to any computer, click a button on the app, and instruct the computer to log in. With this technology, an individual does not need to input their username or password, which is especially helpful for public or shared computers.

CODESTERS AND LEARNING.COM
(www.codesters.com) and (www.learning.com)

Codesters has partnered with Learning.com to make computer science accessible to millions of students in schools nationwide. Codesters is integrating its classroom-friendly coding curriculum into Learning.com’s Easy-Tech solution as part of their Easy Code curriculum. This allows Codesters to combine its project-based lessons with Learning.com’s comprehensive and interactive content.

CURRICULUM ADVANTAGE CLASSWORKS IMS GLOBAL CERTIFICATION
(www.classworks.com)

Classworks, an online instructional solution by Curriculum Advantage, has achieved IMS Global Conformance Certification for the OneRoster v1.1 standard. OneRoster, an interoperability standard developed by the IMS Global Learning Consortium, allows districts and technology partners like Classworks to seamlessly integrate and update student rosters. Using one standard format for rostering saves time and increases efficiency for school districts previously challenged with manually uploading rosters into a variety of digital resources.

EDMENTUM STUDY ISLAND
(www.edmentum.com)

Edmentum has announced that its Study Island product has reached 10,000 item types, providing a new level of precision in matching student learning styles during practice and assessment tests. Study Island is a customizable K-12 classroom assessment and practice reinforcement tool, whose technology-centered advancements promote higher-order thinking and inquiry to prepare students for more rigorous Web-based exams. Built using the Depth of Knowledge (DOK) guidelines, the additional item types measure a deeper understanding of Common Core State Standards, ensuring practice and test questions are written to the appropriate difficulty level and expose students to more personalized content. In addition to multiple-choice questions, the item types include drag-and-drop, hot spot, hot text, multiple response, cloze, fill-in-the-blank, and more. For teachers, benchmarks include constructed-response questions with rubrics for grading. The additional item types will facilitate greater interaction between student and content.

FILEWAVE VERSION 12
(www.filewave.com)

FileWave has recently announced the release of FileWave version 12. The new version now offers Chromebook support, Apple enhancements, and expanded Windows imaging capabilities. In addition, version 12 includes over 100 other improvements designed to enhance existing FileWave products and features.

FUEL EDUCATION CREDIT RECOVERY CURRICULUM
(www.fueleducation.com)

Fuel Education has launched a new credit recovery curriculum offering blended and online learning for “at-promise” students. Its credit recovery courses are designed for students who did not pass a course the first time but learned enough to make a complete repetition of the course unnecessary. The curriculum features a modern design, interactive content, adaptive release technology, and a diagnostic-driven model that helps students test on material they previously mastered so they can focus on more difficult concepts they may have missed out on the first time. The curriculum also includes English Language Learners (ELL) support, including non-linguistic representation of content, audio demonstrations, and pre-teaching of key vocabulary in both English and Spanish.

GUIDEK12
(https://guidek12.com)

GuideK12 is announcing the latest release of GuideK12, geovisual analytics suite, available this fall. This software has been designed to make data more accessible, actionable and transparent for administrative teams. This newest version includes a new user interface overall as well as a new module, named Adviser that makes generating reports as easy as a click from a drop down selection menu, no formulas, no spreadsheets, just answers. Administrators across the country rely on GuideK12 to analyze: resource placement, student needs, open enrollment trends, boundary planning, demographic shifts, equity/access issues, referendum planning and much more. Find out how GuideK12 makes decision making more interactive, effective and transparent.

IMPERO SOFTWARE
(www.imperosoftware.com/us/)

Impero Software, provider of network administration, classroom management, and Internet safety software, has released an Online Safety Handbook for its US customers. The handbook serves as a deployment and resource guide for schools using Impero Education Pro monitoring software and keyword libraries to keep students safe. Impero’s software monitors students’ online activity on a school’s network and uses algorithms to alert educators if students use keywords that could indicate issues such as cyberbullying, sexting, radicalization, self-harm, or a range of other issues. It also offers Confide, an anonymous reporting tool that allows students to voice concerns about themselves or another student. Impero has now partnered with several non-profit and advocacy organizations, many of which contribute to the company’s extensive keyword library, to provide advice for school leaders on what to do if they encounter specific issues.

ISTATION AND CLEVER
(www.istation.com) and (www.clever.com)

Istation, a leading provider of educational technology for pre-K through 12thgrade students, recently announced an expanded partnership with Clever to simplify and secure online learning for today’s students. Schools and apps connect on Clever’s Web-based platform to put next-generation software in the hands of students, helping teachers reclaim valuable learning time in classrooms. Half of K-12 schools in the US and more than 250 apps connect on Clever to automate data integrations with online learning apps and simplify the login process for students and teachers. Istation is an award-winning comprehensive e-learning program used by more than four million students around the world. Known for its accurate assessments, engaging curriculum, and trusted teacher resources, Istation helps students achieve academic growth in reading, math, and Spanish. Under the partnership, Clever and Istation will work together to ensure that Istation customers have access to the Clever platform, including single sign-on capabilities.

ITSLEARNING APP INTEGRATIONS
(https://itslearning.com)

Itslearning is introducing integrations to the world’s most popular cloud apps. Users will now be able to work with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint directly from within itslearning without the need for a Microsoft email account. Teachers can now also add files into courses, plans, assignments, or the itslearning library by pulling them from Google’s G Suite or Microsoft’s Office 365. Itslearning has made it possible for teachers to synchronize their preferred cloud service to itslearning so that they get all the access they need without ever having to leave the system. It is available on the Microsoft Azure Marketplace.

ITSLEARNING MOBILE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
(https://itslearning.com)

Itslearning has delivered to K-12 students and teachers a fully featured, completely mobile LMS. With it, users have full access to course content, resources, and tools on their Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. Additionally, students can use the app to submit assignments and upload files. The apps are available now in the App Store and on Google Play.

KNOVATION AND CANVAS
(www.knovationlearning.com) and (www.canvaslms.com)

Knovation has partnered with Canvas to provide free digital content and open education resources to K-12 classrooms. This partnership distributes Knovation’s icurio application to current and prospective learning management system (LMS) subscribers. Icurio is Knovation’s award-winning digital curriculum application that provides standards-aligned online resources to match a given district’s curriculum. It also allows instructors to design and deliver digital lessons, share resources with the whole class, keep students on track with literary support tools, and more. Now, via Canvas, LMS subscribers can also make use of this technology, enabling teachers to easily embed relevant and engaging content into their Canvas classrooms, courses, and lessons.

LEARNING.COM EASYTECH’S PRESCRIPTIVE KEYBOARDING UPDATE
(www.learning.com)

Learning.com has announced its Next Generation Adaptive Keyboarding solution, a comprehensive digital application designed to help students develop accuracy and speed on the keyboard through independent practice. This new application is an update of EasyTech’s Prescriptive Keyboarding solution. It features updated technology, including a transition from Flash to HTML5, and offers intuitive, role-based user interfaces along with a modern design for higher engagement and ease of use. As a precursor to independent practice, the new guided practice curriculum launches a module that directs students through such keyboarding basics as home row and upper row to ensure proper technique within those skill areas. Teachers can also customize their lessons to set up practice sessions. Dashboards for teachers and students provide snapshots of class and student performance data including accuracy and words-per-minute growth over time, time spent on keyboarding practice, and accuracy by key.

LIGHTSPEED SYSTEMS WEB FILTER 3: LONGHORN
(www.lightspeedsystems.com)

Lightspeed Systems has announced the release of Web Filter 3: Longhorn, an upgrade to its market-leading education Web filter. The upgrade offers new features to ease user identification, activity reporting, and safe Web browsing. Included among its enhancements are an AI-driven database with a comprehensive and accurate filter, a dynamic reporting engine to provide live Web-reporting activity, continuous user identification across all networks and devices, flexible deployment for hosting in a cloud, and customizable safe searching that allows for in-depth visibility into search activity.

MEASURED PROGRESS AND ILLUMINATE EDUCATION
(www.measuredprogress.org) and (www.illuminateed.com)

Measured Progress, Inc. has recently partnered with Illuminate Education to add high-quality assessment content from Measured Progress to the Illuminate Education Intelligence platform. As a result of this partnership, Measured Progress will make formative assessment items and pre-built quizzes in reading, mathematics, and science from the Measured Progress Formative Content Bank and STEM Gauge available for customers of Measured Progress and Illuminate Education. In addition to providing these resources, Measured Progress helps districts create customized assessments on the platform of their choice, which now includes Illuminate Education. Illuminate Education has three core products that make up its Education Intelligence Platform: Data and Assessment, which enables data-informed instruction; Student Information, which keeps schools organized with attendance, scheduling, and state reporting; and Illuminate Special Education, which provides a centralized system to create and manage IEPs.

MCGRAW HILL EDUCATION AND STUDYSYNC
(www.mheducation.com) and (www.studysync.com)

StudySync and McGraw-Hill Education announced the addition of a new audio podcast feature to StudySync, a comprehensive blended English Language Arts/Development program for grades 6-12. The first podcast series, “School of Thought,” explores students’ views on 21stcentury learning, while helping students improve important listening and critical thinking skills. The series will feature six episodes, each four to six minutes in length, covering topics such as how schools should be designed, the importance of homework, and more. Each episode features interviews with students from across the US and also includes opinions from teachers, experts, and innovators in education. The podcasts will be weekly additions to StudySync’s daily “Blasts,” which are short reading/writing assignments that allow students to express their opinions on high-interest topics. Students can draw upon the additional podcast audio content as they craft written responses to the “Blasts,” to engage in thoughtful discussion on various topics.

MIAO MI TV APP FOR MANDARIN LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION
(www.miaomi-tv.com/us/)

Miao Mi TV has released Miao Mi, a new app for helping young children learn Mandarin using just their tablets. More than 500 videos are available on the app, including award-winning shows and games that reinforce the language learning. It has a child-friendly interface and offers English/Mandarin language support. The vocabulary level on the app matches what K-2 students in Mandarin-immersion programs across the US are learning, helping to prepare children who may enter into those programs in the future.

MYSCRIPT NEBO
(www.myscript.com)

MyScript has developed Nebo, an app available for both Windows and iOS devices, that allows users to take notes, draw diagrams, and sketch pictures on their tablets. In addition, it creates real-time digitized content that is editable with an active pen alone, providing for ease of use and productivity gains previously not possible with digital handwriting. Nebo also provides a smart layout that makes content scroll indefinitely and adjust automatically to the screen size and orientation. The user interface is localized in 11 languages and recognizes up to 58 handwritten languages as well.

ODYSSEYWARE INTERACTIVE TEACHER DASHBOARD
(www.odysseyware.com)

Odysseyware has introduced a new interactive teacher dashboard that provides a visual, at-a-glance look at data around student performance and makes progress monitoring easier without having to run a report. Teachers can use this to get information up front, allowing them to intervene as soon as possible to prevent a student from falling behind. Among its features are a dynamic drilldown of detailed data for each enrollment, a user-friendly export of data to share with parents and administrators, and a design that supports all types of implementations including NWEA and CRx. Teachers will be able to access the dashboard feature through the existing Odysseyware “reports” page, they will retain access to the full list of informative data reporting options that already exist within the software, and it will come at no additional cost to current Odysseyware users as well.

OPEN LABS STAGELIGHT EDU
(www.openlabs.com/promo)

Open Labs has released Stagelight EDU – music education software designed specifically for the classroom. Created to help students in K-12, it offers a simple user interface, a state-approved curriculum including 101-301in-app style lessons, high-quality sounds, and other key features. Stagelight EDU also provides: a curriculum creator, allowing educators to customize their own lessons; SongTransfer for distributing project files and lessons across all compatible devices; unlimited tracks; cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS with Android app support; and more.

PERFORMANCE MATTERS AND TEACHING CHANNEL
(www.performancematters.com) and (www.teachingchannel.org)

Performance Matters has partnered with Teaching Channel; through this exclusive partnership, Teaching Channel’s award-winning library of teaching videos are now seamlessly integrated into the Performance Matters Platform. Within the Performance Matters Educator Growth and Student Growth solutions, teachers now have anytime, anywhere access to Teaching Channel’s collection of more than 1,000 videos. The online library of inspiring, curated, and effective teaching practices is indexed for easy retrieval and can be searched by Common Core State Standard, grade level, subject, topic, or teaching strategy. Using data from teacher evaluations, observations, and student assessments, the Performance Matters Platform can directly offer teachers embedded relevant Teaching Channel videos, saving time for teachers and administrators alike.

SCHOLASTIC LEVELED BOOKROOM 4.0
(www.scholastic.com)

Scholastic announced the latest addition to its suite of Guided Reading Programs for schools and districts, Leveled Bookroom 4.0. This comprehensive literacy resource for grades K–6 combines high-quality, leveled books with print and digital instructional materials to support educators. Leveled Bookroom 4.0 increases student access to a wide-range of reading materials with more than 6,000 authentic texts for whole-school learning, containing both full-length, leveled popular books and engaging Guided Reading Short Reads for close-reading lessons. Additional tools and resources within each customizable bookroom help educators manage time in the classroom and facilitate small-group instruction. These include The Accelerator, a new digital management platform with robust search features for 24/7 instructional planning, teacher support including step-by-step implementation guides, teaching cards for every title and optional professional learning, and redesigned packaging featuring pre-assembled and pre-stickered bookrooms with Guided Reading levels for quick and intuitive setup and organization.

SCHOOLOGY NEW FEATURE
(www.schoology.com)

Schoology announced a new feature that enhances the experience and expands the choice educators have when building curriculum and assessments. With the new feature, Schoology provides educators the flexibility to assess and affect individual student progress more effectively. The expansion of technology-enhanced question types includes support for traditional questions built into most learning tools, such as fill-in-the-blank, short answer, or shared passages. More importantly, this new technology adds support for innovative new question types that take advantage of online assessments. This provides educators with opportunities to better prepare for online testing in the classroom throughout the entire school year, provide more interactive assessments that enable students to show their work in STEM courses, and create more interactive content, since assessments do not have to be graded.

TEXTHELP EQUATIO
(www.texthelp.com)

Texthelp has announced the release of EquatlO, a new Chrome extension that makes it easy for students and teachers to create equations, formulas, and other mathematical expressions digitally. Teachers and students can type, handwrite, or dictate virtually any mathematical expression directly on their computer’s keyboard or touchscreen. Designed around the well-evidenced principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), EquatlO compliments Texthelp’s other education and literacy software that helps students read, write, and express themselves confidently in line with their own personal learning needs.

TOSHIBA AND FLASHGRADE
(www.toshiba.com) and (www.flashgrade.com)

Toshiba America Business Solutions recently announced its partnership with leading education technology company, FlashGrade. Toshiba will sell and distribute FlashGrade’s signature Grading Cloud software via its independent and direct reseller channels throughout the United States and Latin America. Grading Cloud broadens Toshiba’s solutions portfolio and streamlines testing and grading processes for K-12 schools, colleges, and universities. The software enables secure on-demand testing, grading, and in-depth analytics and reporting for educators. FlashGrade’s cloud offering integrates with Toshiba’s industry-recognized e‑STUDIO multifunction printers and is easily accessible through its customizable user interface, Elevate.

TURNITIN AND METAMETRICS
(www.turnitin.com) and (www.metametricsinc.com)

Turnitin has partnered with MetaMetrics to add Lexile measures to its instructional writing program, Revision Assistant, to better help teachers match appropriate texts to individual students and personalize instruction. The Lexile Framework for Reading is the go-to standard for matching student reading levels to text complexity. Students write better essays when they fully understand the text they are writing about. Now, teachers can use Lexile measures to ensure that the reading selections they assign to students within Revision Assistant are appropriate to each individual pupil. Students will be able to write essays for prompts that meet their specific reading levels, all while receiving feedback to help them improve their skills.

VOKI SCHOOL LICENSE AND VOKI DISTRICT LICENSE

Voki School License and Voki District License provide discounted Voki licenses for every teacher, student, and administrator in a given school building or for every school in the district, along with an administrative console to manage each account. The solutions feature four components: Voki Creator, which enables teachers and students to create dynamic, customizable speaking avatars (known as Voki) using their own spoken voices; Voki Presenter, which allows users to place their Voki inside different environments and backgrounds for presentation purposes; Voki Classroom, which gives instructors the ability to manage their students, assignments, and classes; and Voki Teach, a set of pre-designed, aligned curricula that teachers can use in their instruction. Every teacher is provided a premium Voki account regardless of school size and it includes all schools district-wide. School administrators can also manage all accounts from a centralized management console.

VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL COMPUTER SCIENCE PATHWAYS CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
(www.vhslearning.org)

The Virtual High School announces a new certificate program consisting of combinations of courses that allow students to explore different aspects of the computer science field and earn a computing certificate, which can be added to a college portfolio. Students must complete three or four semesters of study in computer science and VHS has created suggested pathways to help guide students through a series of courses based on their interests. Students may take three semester-length courses, starting with introductory courses like Scratch and Video Game Design, followed by courses in Web Design or Java Programming. Alternatively, they may opt to take an AP track, which provides a survey of the computer science field while focusing on computational thinking and introductory programming, followed by AP Computer Science A, a college-level Java programming course. Or students may choose a combination of both AP and elective offerings, based on their specific interests.

Hardware

Paragon Furniture, Inc. (www.paragoninc.com) has announced its new MAKER Series INVENT Table and Idea Board. The MAKER INVENT tables are available with locking casters for easy mobility or glides for stationary applications. The table surface can be configured using materials such as laminate, chemical-resistant, and butcher block to fit the intent of the space. In addition, optional electrical access can be mounted to the table. Work surface cutouts and grommet holes help manage power cords to keep them off the work space. The MAKER Idea Board has a double-sided dry erase finish that is both a writing surface and magnetic so it adds flexibility to any group gathering. The Idea Board has four twin-wheel locking casters for easy mobility, while the upright handles provide an easy grip for transportation. It supports most flip chart pads using chart hooks located at the top of the board.

Varitronics (www.variquest.com) has launched its Perfecta 3600STP full-color printer, a focused scan-to-print for the K-12 market. The Perfecta 3600STP can scan documents up to 36 inches wide, while having the flexibility to scan small-to-big or big-to-small, all with minimal setup and a single power cord. Users also have the ability to print directly from a smartphone or tablet. For connectivity, there’s Wi-Fi Direct, enabling the printer’s own wifi hotspot that doesn’t require the use of a school network. Perfecta 3600STP users can also bundle the printer with the VariQuest Design Center, pre-loaded with thousands of educationally relevant templates, graphics, and more. Teachers and administrators with any level of technical experience can use the Design Center to create instructional aides for the classroom, as well as eye-catching event banners and posters for school or district-wide initiatives.

Microsoft (www.microsoft.com) announced a variety of new offerings at a recent event in New York. These include: Windows 10 S, which will enable schools to manage computers in the classroom cost-effectively and quickly; the new thin and light Surface Laptop; Microsoft Teams in the classroom, a digital hub where students and teachers can collaborate; and Code Builder for Minecraft: Education Edition, a new in-game feature for “Minecraft: Education Edition” that inspires educators and students to learn to write code to explore, create, and play in the full 3D Minecraft world.

Acer (www.acer.com) has announced the availability of its latest convertible notebook for education customers, the Acer TravelMate Spin B1 (B118), running Windows 10 S. The 11.6-inch convertible notebook is perfectly sized for easy portability and features four usage modes, including Stand and Tent modes for group projects and sharing, Tablet mode for learning on the move in labs or during field trips, and Laptop mode for everything else. The notebook sports a full HD touchscreen with 1920x1080 resolution for intuitive operation and engagement with Web pages and apps. It also supports up to 13 hours of battery life and includes a pressure-resistant screen and a spill-resistant keyboard that can provide protection from up to 11 fluid ounces of water. Finally, students can stay connected to their school network with fast dual-band 2x2 MIMO 802.11ac wireless connectivity.

littleBits (http://littlebits.cc/about) released its new Code Kit for grades 3-8. The littleBits Code Kit is the brand’s second product to be designed specifically for use in STEAM classrooms, and the first kit to combine the magic of hands-on invention, the power of coding, and the fun and engagement of games. Each littleBits Code Kit includes all of the materials needed for up to three students to invent and code simultaneously. The littleBits Code Kit combines block-based programming with real-world engineering using littleBits electronic building blocks, empowering students to create their own games. The accompanying app, available for PC, Mac and Chromebooks, guides students through the fundamentals of coding through video tutorials and step-by-step inventions.

Ozobot (www.ozobot.com) has released its Ozobot Evo Classroom Kit, allowing up to twelve students per kit to learn how to code while connecting them with friends at the same time. It introduces coding concepts through the bot’s block-based programming tool, OzoBlocky. It teaches introductory to advanced programming as students use color-coded markers and paper to draw commands for the bot. The kit also includes the Ozobot Evo app, a teacher’s guide, an OzoBlocky Get Started Sheet, a classroom kit storage bin, 100+ lessons and activities for STEAM subjects and beyond, and many more features.

Software & Online

AIRPARROT 2
(http://www.airsquirrels.com/airparrot/chrome/)

Squirrels LLC released AirParrot 2 for Chrome OS to bring previously unavailable screen-mirroring capabilities to classroom Chromebooks. AirParrot 2 for Chrome OS software runs on Chromebooks and allows teachers and students to wirelessly present their device screens to Apple TV. The original AirParrot for Chrome OS released in 2014 gave Chromebooks the ability to connect to second- and third-generation Apple TVs. AirParrot 2 for Chrome OS advances that technology, allowing Chromebooks to connect to the new fourth-generation Apple TV and mirror to multiple AirPlay receivers at once. AirParrot 2 is also easy to use: a user opens the app, selects which AirPlay receiver they want to mirror to, and clicks connect. Users can choose to mirror their entire Chromebook desktop display or just a single tab.

CLASSFLOW
(www.classflow.com)

ClassFlow, the free, next-generation lesson delivery software, announced new partnerships with leading digital content developers to provide teachers with expanded access to the latest interactive educational content. By partnering with Gooru, SketchFab, PhET Interactive Simulations, and Desmos, ClassFlow will offer teachers the latest technologies for lessons, including 3D models, virtual reality, and science and math simulations. Designed for K12 classrooms with interactive displays, ClassFlow simplifies the way teachers and students collaborate and use today’s modern technologies such as mobile, PCs, and interactive touchboards.

DISCOVERY EDUCATION STREAMING AND TECHBOOK
(www.discoveryeducation.com)

Discovery Education announced two new enhancements to its digital services, Streaming and Techbook, to support educators in peer networking and differentiated instruction. Currently rolling-out to users of Discovery Education Streaming, Streaming Plus, and the Discovery Education Techbook series is the Discovery Educator Network (DEN) Online Community. A new social media platform, embedded within Discovery Education’s services, the DEN Online Community enhances educators’ ability to connect with peers from around the world and personalize their own professional development. To further support educators’ efforts to differentiate math instruction, a Math Assessment Builder has also been added to the Discovery Education Math Techbook. Now, teachers can access 8,000 additional technology-enhanced items from which they can create their own standards-based assessments.

D-LINK E-RATE PROGRAM
(http://us.dlink.com/e-rate)

D-Link announced a new Schools and Libraries E-Rate program designed to help schools build a better infrastructure for their budget. As part of the new program, D-Link will help schools and libraries simplify the E-Rate process by preparing a technology plan, filing with E-Rate, identifying detailed costs, and receiving discounts on a variety of networking products. Alone or as part of a multi-vendor system, D-Link E-Rate Category Two-eligible products bring a broad range of network benefits, and provide school with more for their E-Rate spend. Qualifying D-Link products include switches, wireless access points and remote wireless, and VPN routers.

EMPOWER ASSESSMENTS
(www.measuredprogress.org)

Measured Progress, Inc. announced the launch of eMPower Assessments, interim assessments that measure student growth for grades 3 – 8. Built to measure college and career readiness standards, eMPower Assessments provide a coherent program to connect to the scale of the SAT Suite of Assessments. eMPower Assessments track student progress toward meeting state standards. The program meets districts’ needs to reduce redundant, disconnected testing and to measure growth consistently through all grades, within and across years. Used together, eMPower and the SAT Suite of Assessments support consistent assessment from grades 3 through 12. The SAT Suite of Assessments measures what students are learning in school, and what they need to know to succeed in college and career.

EXACT PATH
(www.edmentum.com/products/exact-path)

Edmentum has completed the initial phase of the beta program for its new K-8 individualized learning program, Exact Path. The program provides an adaptive, research-based assessment, dynamically assigned quality content, and progress monitoring tools to target individual instruction. Exact Path was developed with the goal of delivering each student the right lesson at the right level, at the right time. With 6,300 students participating in the beta program, the new solution has shown increases in their reading, language arts, and math skill proficiency while saving teachers time. The full program is expected to launch in time for the 2017-18 school year.

JAMF SUPPORT FOR NEW APPLE RELEASES
(www.jamf.com)

Jamf announced support for the upcoming Apple releases of iOS, macOS, and tvOS. When customers upgrade their iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV, IT administrators using Jamf Pro (formerly Casper Suite) or Jamf Now (formerly Bushel) can be confident their management workflows will be uninterrupted. In addition to version compatibility, Jamf Pro supports the new functionality of the Apple releases, including new security capabilities and configuration management for devices, additional managed restrictions, a new version of Apple’s Classroom app, and new device management capabilities for Apple TV, including zero-touch setup, configuration, and app distribution.

ITSLEARNING AND GOORU
(https://itslearning.com and www.gooru.org)

itslearning partnered with Gooru, a nonprofit organization that curates and vets open educational resources (OERs), to offer complete online curricula for more than 35 teacher-curated courses in core subject areas, including science, mathematics, English language arts and social studies. The courses contain resources, collections, and assessments. In addition, itslearning lets teachers remix and customize content collections and courses to meet the personalized instruction needs of individual students and the performance objectives of entire districts. With itslearning, educators can tap into over 1.7 million learning objects, such as websites, interactives, educational games, questions, digital text, and videos that have been curated and organized from over 500 sources, such as PBS, Smithsonian, NBC Learn, NASA, National Geographic, and Algebra Lab.

KAJEET SENTINEL
(www.kajeet.net)

Kajeet, a specialist in safe, mobile student Internet connectivity, announced enhancements to the Kajeet Sentinel platform. The platform enables students to access online educational content, filters out unsafe and irrelevant material, manages data allocations, and enables educators to better understand how students are using the devices outside the classroom. The Kajeet Education Broadband solution connects students at home or on the go through two nationwide 4G LTE networks in more than 300 districts across 41 states and D.C. The upgrades to the Sentinel platform will allow educators to better manage the filters and provide enhanced reporting on when students are using their data and which sites they are visiting.

LIGHTSPEED SYSTEMS RELAY FOR CHROME
(www.lightspeedsystems.com/relay)

Lightspeed Systems Relay for Chrome is a comprehensive, easy to set up solution designed for Chrome OS devices in K-12. The all-in-one, cloud-based solution maximizes return on investment of school Chromebooks with simple tools for filtering, protecting, geolocating, and reporting on the devices. Administrators can easily filter access to the internet, including social media and SSL sites, with granular policies for staff and students.

MENTORING MINDS
(www.mentoringminds.com)

Mentoring Minds relaunched its website as a resource for teachers seeking ways to integrate critical thinking into learning and teaching. The new resource hub, “Learn with Us,” features a blog and downloadable white papers that offer ideas and insight into key challenges that teachers and administrators face. Educators—both on staff at Mentoring Minds and as guest contributors—share new content on a weekly basis on topics such as college and career-readiness, student-centered classrooms, and best walkthrough practices.

SMITHSONIAN LEARNING LAB
(http://learninglab.si.edu)

The Smithsonian announced a joint effort with Lenovo to foster STEAM learning in school and after-school programs using the Smithsonian Learning Lab, a free online toolkit to find, customize, and share digital museum resources with others. Lenovo is funding the development of six STEAM activities that combine resources in the Smithsonian Learning Lab with hands-on projects for educators and Lenovo employee volunteers to facilitate with students. The Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access is designing the activities and a step-by-step facilitator’s guide to accompany each one to support implementation in the classroom and afterschool programs. The center will also create two virtual-reality education experiences for teachers to embed into their curriculum.

STEMEXPLORE
(www.earthecho.org)

EarthEcho International launched STEMExplore, a new, free, digital STEM career resource. The online resource features dozens of interviews with scientists and engineers from the STEM fields, and is designed to encourage students’ interest in STEM careers. United Technologies Corporation is collaborating with EarthEcho to offer videos that feature a range of scientific careers.

TABPILOT MOBILE DEVICE MANAGEMENT
(www.tabpilot.com)

TabPilot released an update to their mobile device management system for schools that expands their capabilities for macOS and also adds support for new features in iOS 10.3. With the release of version 6.2, the Mac capabilities were greatly expanded to include Restriction Profiles with more than 80 options, Settings Profiles with dozens of Finder and login options, and Network Profiles for configuring Wi-Fi settings, distributing certificates, and more. Other new features include the ability to play an alert sound on iPads in Lost Mode and support for Wi-Fi Whitelisting to prevent devices from connecting to non-approved networks. TabPilot is continuing to offer Mac licenses for their MDM for free, one with each iOS license, through the end of this school year.

THE VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER COURSES
(www.vhslearning.org/summer)

The Virtual High School, Inc., a nonprofit that offers online and blending learning programs, introduced three new summer courses that are open for registration. Summer School courses are offered for credit recovery and enrichment in two four-week sessions starting in July and August, and one eight-week session in July. Solar Energy Design for grades 9-12 has students explore how solar energy can reduce the carbon footprint, and learn how photovoltaic solar panels work. Cryptography: The Math Behind Secret Messages for grades 6-12 shows students how to use mathematical concepts to read and write secret messages through the application of ciphers from classical cryptography. Chemistry for grades 9-12 tasks students with investigating topics like chemical reactions, atomic theory, and states of matter using multimedia and textbook resources.

WORDLY WISE 3000
(www.epsbooks.com)

EPS Instruction and Intervention, a division of School Specialty, Inc., has teamed up with Quizlet, an online platform that offers engaging study and game activities to help students practice new vocabulary. EPS will incorporate Quizlet into the new Wordly Wise 3000 4th Edition (print) and Wordly Wise i3000 (digital) direct academic vocabulary programs. Students and teachers can choose from seven available study and game modes (flashcards, learn, spell, test, match, gravity, and live), to practice and master the vocabulary they’re learning. Both the print and online editions will be available this summer.

Logitech (www.logitech.com) announced the Rugged Combo, Rugged Case, and Add-on Keyboard for Rugged Case for Apple’s new 9.7-inch iPad. The Rugged Combo helps protect the iPad from drops and daily wear and tear, and has a detachable keyboard offering a secure and approved solution for testing and exams. The Rugged Case���s frame is lined with soft polymer ribs that flex on impact to protect iPad from drops as high as six feet onto surfaces as hard as concrete. The kick-back stand has sturdy mechanical hinges that move freely within a 40-degree range, while staying firmly in place, without collapsing, even with aggressive tapping. The keyboard sources power directly from iPad, so users never have to charge the keyboard. Its dedicated row of short-cut and function keys also make it easy to navigate various iPad functions, directly from the keyboard.

Casio America, Inc. (www.casio.com) released the PRIZM CAS fx-CG500 next-generation graphing calculator. In addition to boasting an advanced Computer Algebra System (CAS), the fx-CG500 features a high-resolution, color, touchscreen LCD, conveying a Natural Textbook display in addition to other features that are permitted for use on the AP, SAT I and II, PSAT and NMSQT exams. The fx-CG500’s extra-large 4.8” screen allows for more complete and detailed viewing of mathematics. Its drag-and-drop functionality enables students to quickly and intuitively pull information from one representation into another, while its split-screen functionality allows simultaneous viewing of functions and graphs. Students can also switch between portrait and landscape views for extended screen width.

Listen Technologies (www.listentech.com) announced its newest offering, ListenTALK, which will begin shipping in June. ListenTALK is a mobile, two-way communication system that makes it easy for groups of two or more people to listen and talk with the push of a button. The pocket-sized device enables clear, secure, collaborative communications with the largest range of any traditional portable FM technology -- up to 100 meters (328 feet). ListenTALK is ideal for noisy, crowded, and/or mobile environments. Applications include training and collaboration, presentations, guided tours, event production, and language interpretation.

Software & Online

AEROHIVE CONNECT
(www.aerohive.com/products/connect)

Aerohive Networks introduced Aerohive Connect, a new cloud networking solution that delivers enterprise connectivity and centralized management starting at $229 per access point. Connect allows organizations to grow as they go, simplify their network operations, and easily upgrade to the full suite of Aerohive solutions as their needs change. As part of the new Connect offering, Aerohive also announced the launch of the AP122, a new enterprise-grade 802.11ac access point.

APERTURE EDUCATION
(www.apertureed.com)

Assessment company Apperson, Inc., and the Devereux Center for Resilient Children, launched a new company, Aperture Education, that provides strength-based assessments and resilience-building resources to help schools and out-of-school-time organizations address the whole child. The new company offers products and services to support educators, student support personnel, administrators, and out-of-school time professionals as they implement social and emotional learning (SEL) programs within their organizations. These programs include Evo Social/Emotional, a K-8 online assessment and intervention tool that uses the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA) to help educators measure students’ SEL skills and implement individualized, classroom and school-wide strategies for instruction and intervention.

BALANCE BUDGET
(www.allovue.com/products/balance/budget)

Allovue released Balance Budget to help budget directors allocate resources to decision-makers throughout the district without having to manage many custom, static spreadsheets. Title I grant managers, teaching and learning departments, and school principals can now all manage their allocations to budget staff and other resources that are aligned to district goals. Late-stage changes to salary and benefits packages can be updated across dozens or hundreds of budgets with a few keystrokes.

CLASSLINK AND SAFARI MONTAGE
(www.classlink.com/safari-montagepartner/)

ClassLink announced a strategic alliance with SAFARI Montage to provide users with a seamless digital learning environment. ClassLink OneClick delivers single sign-on to Windows, Google, web applications such as SAFARI Montage, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. SAFARI Montage provides K–12 school districts with an integrated Learning Object Repository, Video Streaming Library, and IPTV & Live Media Streaming solutions, designed to handle video efficiently. The platform provides a single interface for users to search, access, and manage their digital resources from educational publisher courseware, OERs, licensed libraries, uploaded videos, Google Drive, and more. SAFARI Montage is interoperable with nearly all major learning management systems and Google Classroom.

CURIOUS WORLD
(www.hmhco.com)

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt added two new, original short-form animated series to Curious World, the company’s subscription content service and app for preschool-aged children and their families. Through the Woods is produced by the Fred Rogers Company and follows an adventurous boy named Rider as he embarks on discoveries in his own backyard. Melia and Jois, produced by Billy Aronson and Jennifer Oxley, is about best friends who bring science and art together to build creative inventions.

DREMEL AND 3DPRINTEROS
(https://3dprinter.dremel.com)

Dremel has partnered with the digital manufacturing system company 3DPrinterOS to enable complete, cloud-based connectivity for the Dremel Idea Builder 3D printers. Access to the 3DPrinterOS system will allow users of the Dremel Idea Builder 3D printer to prepare models and monitor print progress anytime with any device — without the need to download software.

EDGENUITY UPSMART
(www.Edgenuity.com)

Edgenuity, a leading provider of online and blended learning, announced the launch of UpSmart, a supplemental solution designed to help all students in grades 6–8 demonstrate mastery of state standards in English language arts and math. Using a completely adaptive learning engine and technology-enhanced assessments, UpSmart provides the right level of instruction and practice on each topic for each student. UpSmart personalizes the learning environment for every student as a companion to the core curriculum or as a test-readiness program, and can be used in variety of settings – as part of a classroom-based blended learning program, in an advisory period or study skills class, or as homework.

ENGAGE! K-12
(www.robotlab.com/engagek12)

RobotLAB released a new digital platform that provides robot-based lessons for a wide range of subjects and age levels. Engage! K-12 is a hands-on learning experience organized by themes, such as soccer-playing robots or autonomous cars. Students and teachers can access the browser-based learning ecosystem from any device. Teachers without programming experience can bring their lessons to life with virtual or physical robots. Lessons are searchable by grade level, subject, and CCSS or TEKS standard, and cover topics from coding to STEM to storytelling. Teachers can use RobotLAB’s existing lessons, customize them for their classes, or create their own.

FOLLETT MAKERSPACE BUNDLES
(www.follettlearning.com/3d)

Follett recently responded to the growing trend of librarians and schools embracing makerspaces by offering age-level specific Makerspace Bundles, which encourage students’ inquiry and exploration through hands-on production. The bundles, designed to save time and take the guesswork out of starting a makerspace, allow librarians to get started in the makerspace concept without doing all of the curation work themselves. Easy to set up and safe to use, the Dremel Idea Builder enables students to interact with their 3D models in the physical space – ultimately enhancing retention of abstract concepts. For educators, the printer’s comprehensive teaching and learning kits easily integrate with existing STEM curriculum and includes access to Dremel’s 1:1 customer support and training. The Dremel Idea Builder 3D 40 printer also features Wi-Fi connectivity, active filament monitoring, a clog-resistant extruder, and assisted leveling.

GOOGLE CLASSROOM
(www.classroom.google.com)

Google updated Classroom, its free (to students and teachers) service where teachers can distribute assignments to and interact with their students. Now, teachers can more easily assign work to individual students and groups based on their unique needs. As they’re creating an assignment, post, or question, teachers can choose whether to share it with the entire class or just with a subset of students. Students can also discreetly receive extra practice if they’re falling behind. Additionally, teachers now receive two new types of Classroom notifications—one when students submit work after the due date, and one when students re-submit work.

I-READY IDEAS
(www.i-Ready.com)

Curriculum Associates recently launched i-Ready Ideas to provide teachers with an online, community-driven forum where they can view and share best-practice tips and resources for using i-Ready, the award-winning online assessment and instruction program. This new forum will include images, videos, and downloadable resources to help teachers engage students, explore the use of data, and use i-Ready with greater fidelity in their Reading and Mathematics classrooms.

IMPERO EDUCATION PRO V6
(www.imperosoftware.com)

Impero Software launched the latest version of Impero Education Pro. Version 6 offers an advanced, cloud-based, cross-server reporting and analytics tool, Impero Insight, as an add-on module. Impero Insight pulls a school/district’s data (collected by Impero Education Pro on one or across multiple servers) into detailed and visually-rich graphical reports designed to aid in decision-making, support best practices, and keep students safe. Impero Insight’s reports are designed to be simple to access and easy to understand. Presented in pre-defined, tailored dashboards, the interactive reports provide schools and districts access to cross-school data in order to compare, contrast, and review data in a single centralized view. This data can be reviewed on an individual school, classroom, or student basis.

IXL LEARNING ADAPTIVE SCIENCE AND SOCIAL STUDIES CONTENT
(www.ixl.com)

IXL Learning, a K–12 learning program used by 1 in 9 U.S. students, introduced adaptive science and social studies content for grades 6–8. Each skill in the curriculum leads students through a series of concepts using multistage challenges, which they complete by answering interactive questions. This progression helps students build mastery of complex topics, while the challenges make the learning process engaging. With this release, IXL now offers science and social studies for grades 2–8 and math and English language arts for grades pre-K–12.

LEGO EDUCATION MAKER ACTIVITIES
(www.legoeducation.com/legomaker)

LEGO Education supports teachers in incorporating Maker learning into their classroom with age and curriculum-relevant materials that facilitate engaging lessons. Two Maker curriculum packs are currently available – one for elementary school (grades 3-5) that’s based on Simple Machines, and one for middle school (grades 6-8) that’s based on Simple & Powered Machines. The activities include an introduction to how the design process works, three lesson plans, inspiration sheets that include pictures of problems to be solved, and student worksheets that include a self-assessment rubric based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

LIVINGTREE PHONE ALERTS
(www.livingtree.com)

LivingTree, a private social network for PK-12 family engagement, recently introduced Phone Alerts. With this new capability, all communications can be delivered via the LivingTree platform. Voice messages are delivered to a parent’s phone number of choice with opt in and opt out functionality in place. Based on parent preferences, phone alerts are delivered to recipients as a message post, email notification, mobile notification, and/or a phone call -- becoming a voicemail if there is no answer. With voice translation to 26 languages and text translation to more than 100 languages, recipients receive the call or message in their preferred language.

MINECRAFT: EDUCATION EDITION
(www.education.minecraft.net)

Minecraft: Education Edition now includes 60 Global Minecraft Mentors representing 19 countries around the world. Each week a different mentor will post blogs, livestreams, videos, and other contributions for the community to enjoy as part of the Mentor of the Week series. Additionally, Minecraft Education Edition has been updated with new features: “global pause” to take a quick break, accessibility features such as text to speech for in-game chat, an updated user interface with easier settings management, and a streamlined uploading process for educators with .mcworld file support.

MYON VERSION 3.7
(www.myon.com)

myON announced the release of version 3.7, bringing re-envisioned faculty reports and more support for student readers. Now, students can select the read-aloud speed of any book in the myON collection. For early readers, additional native benchmark items are available that use pictures and simple sentences to track changes in students’ reading scores as they progress. When creating reading tasks, educators can use book alignments to state and national standards to connect titles to support curriculum goals.

ONENOTE
(www.onenote.com)

OneNote has announced a set of improvements across OneNote Class Notebook, Learning Tools, and Office Lens. Now, teachers can access Class Notebook Tools on OneNote Online and the Windows 10 app and give stickers to students in their Class Notebooks. Additionally, teachers will find new, embeddable content types from partners. Microsoft also released Office Lens for iPad, including Learning Tools.

OVERDRIVE EDUCATION SHARED COLLECTIONS
(www.overdrive.com/schools)

OverDrive Education now offers shared collections, a collaborative eBook platform that enables two or more schools or districts to borrow eBooks and audiobooks via a single, easy-to-use website, with all purchased titles available to all participating institutions’ users. OverDrive content specialists make title suggestions based on collective need and feedback, but individual schools make purchasing decisions. Books purchased for a shared collection are available to all participating schools or districts through the OverDrive digital reading platform. eBook and audiobooks are filtered by grade level to ensure the right titles are reaching the right students.

PANOPTO VIDEO PLATFORM
(www.panopto.com)

Panopto announced the latest release of its video platform which introduces a new quizzing tool. The quiz maker enables instructors to test comprehension, reinforce key concepts, and improve knowledge retention. Instructors can easily create multiple choice, multi-select, and true/false quizzes. The quizzes can then be embedded into videos using the Panopto video editor. Additionally, Panopto’s HTML5-based video editor now supports multi-camera switching in post-production, and the ability to upload slide decks and synchronize slides with a video or audio file. Panopto will also expose the output of their automatic speech recognition (ASR) so that customers can import machine-generated captions and then correct them in the video editor. With the latest release, Panopto also built on its existing platform for iOS live streaming to support Android devices.

TALES2GO
(www.tales2go.com)

Tales2go Inc. announced an introductory subscription offering for its award-winning service. Different from a building license, which provides a take-home license for every student, a Tales2go library license provides up to 10 licenses for use in the library/media center and 25 lendable licenses that can be shared with individual students on mobile devices. Tales2go supports the development of literacy skills during a student’s early childhood and elementary school years. The Tales2go service easily adds a listening component to classroom reading instruction. Tales2go works with leading audio book publishers ranging from Recorded Books, Scholastic, and Oxford University Press, as well as established storytellers such as Bill Harley and Odds Bodkin.

VITALSOURCE ON BRYTEWAVE
(www.follett.com and www.vitalsource.com)

Follett and VitalSource Technologies have integrated systems to eliminate the need for passcodes to access VitalSource content via Follett’s BryteWave digital textbook reader. Students simply log in to their LMS and click a link for instant access to their needed materials. Follett’s new integration with VitalSource extends seamless content access to all students purchasing VitalSource content through a Follett managed campus store, in-store or online.

Apps 

ADOBE APPS FOR CHROMEBOOKS
(www.adobe.com)

Adobe announced the launch of updated Android applications optimized for select Chromebooks. Adobe Creative Cloud apps are offered as a Google beta. School administrators can approve and push Adobe apps on select managed Chromebooks by using the Google Admin console. The initial release of apps includes Photoshop Mix, Lightroom Mobile, Illustrator Draw, Photoshop Sketch, Adobe Comp CC, and Creative Cloud Mobile. Schools can expect an additional wave of Adobe apps to be launched later this year.

BIOMEVIEWER
(www.hhmi.org/biointeractive/biomeviewer)

BiomeViewer is a new, free app that pulls back the curtain on any terrestrial location on the planet. Users can drop a pin or search for their favorite location to see monthly climate data, discover the wildlife that lives in the area, and see how humans changed the land use over the last 300 years. Engaging animations enable users to track temperature or precipitation throughout the year. The app also offers an educator guide with tips for using BiomeViewer in the classroom.

CLASSTAG
(ClassTag.com)

ClassTag, a free parent engagement app for teachers and schools, is announcing a fully customizable and automated newsletter functionality to augment its communications and scheduling capabilities. ClassTag’s Weekly Update has been designed to replace labor-intensive paper newsletters. An email newsletter with an overview of all upcoming activities will be sent to parents invited by the teacher to her class weekly, at a time and day set by the teacher. Teachers can add custom content or let ClassTag keep parents in the loop.

EDTHENA CHROMEBOOK APP
(www.edthena.com)

With Edthena’s new Chromebook app, teachers can complete an entire video coaching cycle – from recording to upload to feedback – on a Chromebook device. With this release, Edthena offers video tools for all major device platforms found in schools – Windows, Mac OS X, iOS, and Chrome OS. Edthena’s Chromebook app automates the process of recording and uploading videos of any length. With the app, teachers select a video length and hit record; the app automatically stops recording after the specified time and begins the upload process.

INFORMUSIC MUSIC HISTORY APP
(www.informusic.org)

Informusic is a music history app for iOS devices and smartphones. Created and refined with a select team of leading musicologists, performers, professors, and historians, Informusic is an all-in-one music history and composer resource that means that music students and classical music fans alike will now be able to access a wealth of detailed musical history facts and information with just the swipe of a finger.

Hardware

Acer (www.acer.com) announced the new TravelMate Spin B1, the first “Spin” product in the TravelMate line with a 360-degree hinge that allows for versatile student learning with Laptop, Stand, Tent, and Tablet modes. The TravelMate Spin B1 features a durable design with pressure-resistant screen, shock-absorbent rubber bumper, and spill-resistant keyboard. It provides up to 13 hours of battery life and includes a stylus that supports Windows Ink as a way to take notes, edit documents, and sketch. Acer also announced the new Chromebook Spin 11, a rugged machine with a Wacom EMR (Electro-Magnetic Resonance) stylus ideal for classroom use. The Chromebook Spin 11 is fitted with two Acer HD wide view HDR webcams – one 1MP camera above the screen and another 5MP camera above the keyboard. Like the TravelMate Spin model, the Chromebook Spin 11 features a 360-degree dual-torque hinge.

Casio America, Inc. (www.casio.com) is expanding its line of PRIZM graphing calculators and recently released the fx-CG50. The calculator includes new capabilities such as 3D graphing, as well as an enhanced new look. Students can easily draw 3D graphs such as planes, cylinders, and spheres, and view them from various angles. The calculator also offers an improved catalog function so students can use commands more quickly. Additionally, a new casing design in a rectangular shape offers improved ease-of-use.

Vernier (www.vernier.com) launched the Go Direct family of sensors, offering versatile ways for users to collect scientific data either wirelessly or through USB connection. The 16 new, low-cost sensors, which are designed primarily for chemistry, physical science, and middle school science, can be used in more than 190 teacher-tested experiments developed by Vernier and are supported by free graphing and analysis software, Graphical Analysis 4 app. Vernier also partnered with Google to expand the availability of software that can graph scientific and engineering data on mobile devices. STEM students can now use Vernier sensors to collect and graph data in real time within Google’s Science Journal app on Google Play for Android devices. To begin the data-collection process, students launch the app and then connect one of over 45 supported Vernier sensors to wirelessly stream and record data, such as temperature, pressure, pH, heart rate, and more. With Science Journal, students can organize their ideas into projects, make predictions, collect data in multiple trials, take notes, upload images from the experiment, and annotate results.

Spectrum Industries (www.spectrumfurniture.com/Connect36) released the Connect36 and Connect18 Device Cart, the latest addition to its mobile device cart line. The Connect36/18 cart securely stores and charges up to 36 Chromebooks, tablets, or notebooks up to 15.6 inches (an accessory power plug may be needed). All metal overhead wire management aids the wiring integration of the Connect36/18 and allows charging plugs to hang in front of each device. Three charging options are available on the Connect36 so the end-user can choose the right option for their technology. There is also a large brick tray in the back that will easily hold all the necessary cords from a fully-wired cart.

Epson (www.epson.com) announced two new printers to its EcoTank all-in-one printer line: the Expression ET-2650 and Expression ET-2600. Both printers feature cartridge-free printing and include up to two years of ink in the box, enough to print up to 4,000 pages black and 6,500 pages color – equivalent to about 20 ink cartridge sets. The new printers represent Epson’s continued commitment to the Supertank category and offers consumers with a reliable and affordable solution that addresses everyday home printing needs. Featuring all-in-one capabilities, as well as built-in wireless printing and an unbeatable combination of convenience and value, the ET-2600 and ET-2650 bring low-cost, hassle-free color printing to the home.

Optoma (www.optomausa.com) released the ZW300UST laser phosphor, ultra short throw projector, combining a laser light source for virtually maintenance-free operation with high reliability, flexibility, and image quality. The ZW300UST features an ultra short throw ratio of .27, weighs less than 13 pounds, and measures 15 by 5 by 12.5 inches, making it the ideal WXGA projector for space-constrained settings. By leveraging a laser phosphor light source, the projector also offers up to 20,000 hours of use. With 3,000 lumens and a 22,000:1 contrast ratio, the projector also produces vibrant colors.

NEC Display Solutions of America (www.necdisplay.com) released eight new XGA- and WXGA-resolution projectors. The light-weight, portable ME Series projectors include 3,000-, 3,300-, 3,600-and 4,000-lumen options that meet the color reproduction needs of the K-12 classroom. The units include a 1.7x zoom lens for added installation flexibility, making it easy for new and replacement situations. Supporting collaboration and screen sharing are key drivers of the new ME Series projectors. They utilize NEC’s MultiPresenter, a multi-user (up to 16 connections from smart phones, tablets and PCs) collaborative screen-sharing solution that allows students and instructors to share images, files, documents, presentations, and more simultaneously over a wired or wireless network. Operating system agnostic, it combines users of Windows, MAC, iOS and Android operating systems onto a single screen.

When kindergarteners are collaborating to build bridges, you know the future of education is bright. Long before students in the schools and districts featured here have a chance to ask “What difference does this make?” or “When will I need to know this?” they’re out on a boat gathering samples, investigating why a family member suffers headaches, outside measuring solar energy, or making connections that lead to a career. Whether you call it STEM, STEAM, or STREAM, cross-curricular, real-world education is helping students to make a difference in their communities now and preparing them for further education and careers. And creative collaboration is the key.

KA HEI: CAPTURING THE SUN

RISING COSTS AND FEARS

“What if a tsunami hits Hawaii and cuts off our fossil fuel energy supply? We can’t even have light or running water. We’d go back to the caveman times,” says a student at Honowai Elementary School in Waipahu, Hawaii.

While clean energy and conservation issues affect us all, thanks to Ka Hei, a collaboration between the Hawaii State Department of Education, OpTerra Energy Services, and DefinedSTEM, Hawaiian students are particularly aware of the need to learn and take action to preserve their beautiful but fragile island environment. Ka Hei is “a multi-pronged approach to sustainability and incorporation of STEM,” says Brent Suyama, DOE communications specialist. Even the name is collaborative—the Hawaiian god Maui used a snare called a Ka Hei to capture the sun, and Ka Hei also means “to absorb as knowledge or skill.”

With $50 million in annual energy costs and fuel prices rapidly rising, in addition to weather changes necessitating the installation of air conditioning in schools, assistant superintendent for facilities Dann Carlson explains that the department began by investing time in writing a creative RFP to find a primary partner for this sustainability program. OpTerra won the competitive bid, which included a unique power purchase agreement financed over 20 years at a fixed rate. Finance was a particular concern, as the Hawaii legislature determines all state funding for public schools.

With DefinedSTEM as their curriculum partner, in 2014 work on the three E’s of Ka Hei—efficiency, electricity generation, and education—began. The first step was to perform energy audits in all 256 schools, install LED lightbulbs and other efficiencies, and begin educating everyone about energy and water conservation. As many schools are used as shelters during hurricanes and energy security is a pressing concern, community involvement and support are critical.

HARNESSING THE ELEMENTS

“I didn’t know we used so much fossil fuel to do … everyday stuff. We gotta do something … Now I know why so many houses have PV and why we see wind turbines. It’s all good stuff for the aina [the Hawaiian word for land],” says another Honowai Elementary student.

Ka Hei is taking advantage of the sun and wind, exploring innovative energy technology and installing photovoltaic (PV) panels. Eighty schools benefitted from a narrow window offering net energy agreements, and efforts to find creative ways to finance PV panels for the rest of the schools and to establish microgrids in five pilot schools are ongoing. This next phase, with the ultimate goal of net-zero buildings, also involves engineering storage solutions.

EDUCATION FOR EVERYONE

Ka Hei’s curricular initiatives, in partnership with DefinedSTEM, involve all 180,000 students in 256 schools across seven islands. Suyama describes the excitement of students as they monitor usage and take responsibility for their own campuses. This kind of STEM learning, he says, is tangible—and “they love it.”

The comprehensive and hands-on training for teachers includes bringing in individuals from local businesses to share their expertise as well as surveys, contests, and information to communicate to parents and guardians. Elizabeth Shigeta, curriculum coordinator for Honowai Elementary School, notes that due to this “shared training experience, teachers are able to collaborate with each other,” which creates “a more meaningful experience” for students. Sharing at home what’s learned in the classroom, she says, is “critical.”

The STEM curriculum for the initiative “connects age-appropriate information and standards,” Shigeta says, but what’s most valuable for learning is the pairing of curriculum and equipment so that it’s effective for students’ different learning modalities. As a result, even young students demonstrate a deep understanding of their connection and responsibility to their environment. “Living on an island has many good things for us to do, like go to the beach, swimming, and hiking. But we need to look at energy like we look at our island. We need to understand and care for it,” says another of Shigeta’s students.

Another Honowai Elementary student perhaps sums it up best: “Yeah. I waste a lot of energy. I know what I can do and I’m going to do it!”

Learn more about this exciting initiative at http://www.hawaiipublicschools.org/ConnectWithUs/Organization/SchoolFacilities/Pages/Ka-Hei.aspx.

TOOLS THEY USE
HONOWAI ELEMENTARY

► DefinedSTEM
► iPads
► Island Energy Inquiry curriculum and equipment (a subsidiary project of Ka Hei/OpTerra)
► LEGO MINDSTORMS
► MacBooks
► Promethean and Smart Boards

BUILDING BRIDGES: WITH BOOKS, COURAGE, AND RELATIONSHIPS

It’s impossible to talk with Jamie Ewing, new STEM Educator at Amidon-Bowen Elementary School, in DC Public Schools, without catching the vision for STEM integration. “Most technology at the elementary level has been supplemental, as opposed to being integrated,” he says. But STEM education is all about critical thinking, and the earlier students begin learning this way, the better.

Ewing was hired to integrate STEM in third through fifth grades, but his question was: “Why not younger?” And he chuckles as he admits it’s been a learning process. When he gave Pre-K three-year-olds a pile of books to build an arched bridge connecting two chairs a few feet apart, he figured he’d need to show them how first. But the kindergarteners not only accomplished this task without being shown how but also found multiple ways to do it. Encouraging collaboration and teaching problem-solving skills at this tender age is not only possible, but critical. “By the time they reach fifth grade, this way of thinking is ingrained,” Ewing says.

Ewing brings a fine arts degree, a career in clothing design, and a dizzying array of accolades—including Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert and 2013 National Academy of Arts and Science in Education Innovator of the Year—to this school in the transitional Southwest Waterfront neighborhood of DC. Although the school has struggled and nearly all 340 students are eligible for free or reduced lunch, Ewing is impressed with the community support to create a STEM-focused school and grateful for a grant that enabled him to outfit his classroom with lots of cool tools. It’s a big transition for everyone, and Ewing is at work in these early days building relationships in the school and the community. The PD he’s doing with teachers is equal parts instruction, support, inspiration, and helping them to see how “they’re doing pieces of it already.”

Ewing is a huge fan of Scratch and uses it especially with fourth graders, teaching coding and programming. His fifth graders use littleBits which, he says, “I absolutely adore. You set up the problem and there are a hundred different ways to do it.” Makers Empire, a 3D printing curriculum, is another key tool he uses to teach problem-solving.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION: JUST TALK TO PEOPLE

But Ewing hastens to point out that effective STEM education doesn’t require expensive equipment. His students in Seattle created instruments out of recycled materials, recorded music, and partnered with the MOHAI to present their pieces in the museum’s atrium. This kind of collaboration is not only creative, engaging, and effective—it’s also free. Ewing has found that museums and businesses often want to partner with education but don’t know how, and teachers don’t realize that they can reach out to these organizations. The solution? Talk to people. “I have yet to find someone who’s said no,” Ewing says.

Social media can also facilitate unique collaborations. One of Ewing’s classes created stop-motion videos with students in Germany, and another Skyped with a school in Detroit. Edmodo, he notes, is great for global collaboration. And Twitter is one of his favorite ways to connect, support, and share ideas with like-minded teachers everywhere (@mrewingteach).

SHIFTING MIND-SETS

Part of the challenge at Amidon-Bowen, where the only tech most students have at home is a phone, is to help them feel comfortable with it. And typing on keyboards, which Ewing (who used a typewriter in college) likens to cursive, doesn’t help. “The Surface RT with an Xbox One controller with keyboard,” he says, would be “the best tool to replace the keyboard for 21st-century kids.” It’s a struggle not to “put our mentality on something that doesn’t make sense to a ten-year-old.”

With technology and in other areas, Ewing encourages teachers to take risks and to push students to fail so they can succeed in new ways. Above all, he says, “Don’t be afraid to let students teach you. If you can get into the headspace where you don’t have to be in control, the kids can do so much more.” While it can be more work up front, and it might look crazy, “once it starts happening, and students take ownership,” Ewing says, “step back and watch it. It’s beautiful.”

TOOLS THEY USE
AMIDON-BOWEN

► Blend Space
► Class Craft
► Edmodo
► littleBits
► Maker Empire
► MinecraftEdu
► MSFT Sway
► One Note
► Scratch
► Skype
► Surface RT with an Xbox One controller with keyboard
► Touch Develop
► Twitter

SAVING LIVES AND PREVENTING HEADACHES

Many of Nancy Foote’s students have followed the STEM path from her classroom at Sossaman Middle School in the Higley Unified (AZ) School District into related careers. These include “the young lady who hated science and math but loved the tech end of it” who is now majoring in physics and astronomy at college, “the academically talented student who is working on Orphan Diseases with the White House,” a few doctors, and even one “who really is a rocket scientist.” While Sossaman doesn’t have an official STEM program, the school offers many STEM classes and has a strong robotics program.

Even in eighth grade, Foote’s students are solving real-world problems. One student, who was concerned about his dad’s headaches that baffled even the doctors, had an “aha!” moment while designing a dream house with CO monitors. His dad drove a convertible, in heavy traffic, every day. So, Foote says, “He borrowed my portable CO monitor … They set up an experiment.” Sure enough, when the car’s roof was down in heavy traffic, CO levels were “excessive,” but “with either the roof up or with light traffic, the levels were acceptable.” This discovery had a huge impact on the student’s entire family.

While we know that too many children and animals die in hot cars, without a wireless temperature probe it’s difficult to quantify how quickly a car gets too hot. Foote says, “One of my students was having a heated discussion with his mom about her leaving their dog in the car. He said it got too hot for the dog, but she disagreed. She claimed that when it was only 90 degrees out, cracking the car windows was enough.” The student borrowed a PASCO wireless temperature probe and “found that the temperature inside the car reached over 110 degrees in less than 10 minutes with the windows closed. With the windows slightly open, it took 12 minutes to get to 110. Mom decided he was right.”

Students at Sossaman engage in many exciting projects, including a thermal ice house challenge using a University of Arizona curriculum, an introduction to the engineering design process, and much more.

FOUR INGREDIENTS FOR SUCCESS

This kind of successful STEM integration grows out of a learning environment rich with certain key characteristics:

Time. Teachers, within and between schools, need time to work together, Foote says, and to “tap into the natural synergy that exists between educators.” Time for professional learning is also important. In Arizona, for example, established summer programs allow teachers to “work side-by-side with professions in STEM areas and get paid very well.”

People. Foote, who was an industrial chemist, has colleagues who bring a wealth of experience from “past lives” as a banker, a police officer, an artist, and even a dolphin trainer, to their classrooms. Foote notes that retirees “are also a wonderful resource.”

Resources. Simply, Foote says, “Get equipment. Invest in probeware, graphical analyzers, and sensors. Let the world of technology into the school … support grant writing. Make STEM a priority.”

Relationships—within and outside schools. “STEM isn’t something that teachers sit down in a meeting and decide to do,” Foote says. “We have constant and ongoing communication about what we’re struggling to teach, what we’re doing and how we can support each other.” Projects like building a solar oven, for example, involve applied technology, math, and science teachers. Collaboration with the wider community leads to further opportunities. Teachers at Higley can discuss internship and educational requirements with local businesses through a chamber of commerce program called “Tours for Teachers.” “Not only do teachers visit the businesses, they visit us,” Foote says. “This provides us with an amazing classroom resource.”

TOOLS THEY USE
SOSSAMAN, HIGLEY UNIFIED

► Apps including Notability, Edmodo, IXL, and Ten Marks
► Arduino
► Autodesk Circuits
► Chromebooks
► Document cameras (HoverCam, HUE HD Pro)
► ElectroCity
► Interactive whiteboards
► iPads
► Notepad ++
► PASCO wireless probeware
► TI calculators

A CONCERNING DIAGNOSIS

When the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources declared Green Lake to be “impaired” in 2014 because it fails to meet optimal water quality standards, the diagnosis launched a groundswell of community action. Wisconsin’s deepest inland lake, at 236 feet, creates a unique environment for different species of fish as well as opportunities for tourism and recreation, explains Dan Starr, science teacher at Green Lake High School. The whole community, including local and state organizations, banded together to organize a movement to protect their treasured natural resource. And a Vernier/NSTA Technology Award provided equipment that helped make student involvement in these efforts a reality.

Phosphorus loads from various urban and agricultural sources are a possible cause of the low dissolved oxygen levels in the lake’s thermocline, but assessments of all aspects of the health of the lake and its tributaries are ongoing. Starr’s students, along with chemistry students in Jason Ladwig’s class, dove in with their Vernier equipment to measure temperature, flow, and turbidity as well as dissolved oxygen, pH, nitrates, and phosphorus levels. Engagement is high, Starr says, “especially when it’s working and there’s a boat involved.” Complications are part of real-world science, though, and “students need to be part of the process and appreciate that things aren’t always perfect,” he says.

While state-of-the-art data-collection technology gives students unprecedented opportunities, Starr points out that it’s also instructive, and fun, for students to measure such things as a waterway’s Biotic Index using low-tech equipment like nets, ice cube trays, and charts for identifying microorganisms.

Starr’s initial goal is for students to mirror the measurements “real” scientists are taking and eventually for students to join in the community discussions, present their findings, and even be involved in decision-making to help protect their lake.

A COLLABORATIVE ECOSYSTEM

None of this student work would be possible, Starr emphasizes, without collaborators in the wider community. As a result of these networks, students will work this fall with Mary Jane Bumby, a long-term water quality citizen scientist—seeing her equipment, comparing data, and learning about standards and best collection practices. The large boat needed for student data collection is provided by Mike Norton, a local charter fishing guide, who takes students out and shares tales of his work and the history of the lake. The DNR also provides its expertise and equipment through Water Action Volunteers (WAV), a statewide, citizen-based monitoring group. The Green Lake Sanitary District and the Green Lake Association have both provided invaluable support throughout the process to engage students with hands-on activities.

In another example of this kind of collaborative work that marries learning and real-world conservation management, a chemistry class, led by a teacher trained in collecting and packaging samples, collects monthly water samples and sends them to a state facility for analysis. The students benefit from the educational opportunity and from helping to make a difference, the state benefits from their volunteer efforts—and the Green Lake Sanitary District picks up the costs.

Starr is grateful for all of these relationships—with these organizations and with Vernier. “The students’ eyes brighten when they use this equipment and see it happen,” he says.

TOOLS THEY USE
GREEN LAKE HIGH SCHOOL

► Secchi Disks
► Vernier Colorimeter
► Vernier Deep Water Temperature Probes
► Vernier Dissolved Oxygen Probes
► Vernier Nitrate Ion-Selective Electrode
► Vernier pH Sensors
► Vernier Turbidity Sensors

EDUCATION IN THE REAL WORLD

The Kent (MI) Intermediate School District (ISD), a regional educational service agency in Grand Rapids, supports over 120,000 students in 20 public districts and also charter schools in all curricular areas, including STEM. They host a high-tech incubator school and an online high school and offer high-school courses at their campus including manufacturing, IT, and design; mechatronics; 3D animation; machining; and health careers.

Kindy Segovia, assistive technology supervisor, explains: “Our focus is to bring real-life experience and interaction with industry to the classroom for students of all abilities,” including professional development and research opportunities and partnerships with businesses and colleges and universities.

COMMUNITY AND CAREER CONNECTIONS

Career Readiness is one of the highly collaborative departments within Kent ISD, supporting staff and students to bring the real world to the classroom—and vice versa. Their community partners include the airport, a downtown retail and culinary venture, Habitat for Humanity, local health-care facilities, and a workforce development association. While not all districts have access to the kind of resources that Kent ISD provides, educators everywhere can follow their example of networking and connecting with local businesses.

The department has initiated several successful ventures that bring students into the workplace. Their job—shadowing program links students with professionals for after-school jobs, summer internships, and an annual day of learning and observation (on Groundhog Shadow Day). These experiences help students narrow their vocational focus and also broaden their options. Ebiri Nkugba, STEM consultant for Kent ISD, is proud to have been part of building a program with Kenowa Hills Public Schools in which students prepare for the workforce by attending classes in an actual workplace.

Students often find careers they love through these opportunities. One student wrote to thank Kent ISD. “Not only did the program help cement my career goals,” she wrote, “but it also helped me get my foot in the door for a job.”

EQUAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

Yet another area of collaboration linked to STEM education in which Kent ISD supports students is in the area of assistive technology. Segovia feels fortunate to work in a place with such a broad reach and interdepartmental cooperation. When Nkugba sets up a new STEM initiative with a teacher, for example, he will consult with Segovia concerning tools and adaptive approaches to support the specialized needs of students with disabilities. Segovia often equips teachers with tools such as Tiggly and Osmo to help these students engage, learn, and create. Kent ISD’s large lending library of tech tools is another program that facilitates and enriches learning for staff and students. With these rich resources and collaborative enterprises, Kent ISD is preparing all students for future educational and vocational success.

TOOLS THEY USE
KENT ISD
► 3D printers
► Arduino
► littleBits
► NAO robot
► Osmo
► Raspberry Pi
► Tiggly
► UAVs (drones)
► VEX Robotics

FOR THE JOY OF MAKING

Michelle Carlson first learned of the Maker Movement when she was working at the Tehama County (CA) Department of Education. From her experiences with teachers and students, she “knew this could provide an amazing solution for engaging all learners and bringing more real-world connection and relevance back to the classroom.” She turned an underutilized space at the DOE office into a makerspace and watched her “vision to make learning joyful” come to life.

When district superintendents began approaching her about this work, she founded Future Development Group, LLC. And since May 2015 she’s collaborated with schools and districts including Vista Preparatory Academy, Evergreen Union School District, Maywood Middle School, in the Issaquah (WA) School District, and the Butte County Office of Education, as well as the local juvenile justice center.

Carlson focuses on “building capacity within systems, creating the spaces which allow for a ‘maker experience’ as well as mentoring teachers and school leaders with the goal of helping them to reach a point where they no longer need outside help.” It’s important, she notes, to have “a complete system of support” in place.

Knowing that most schools can’t afford a consultant to help them get started, Carlson put all of the curriculum, resources, and teaching from a successful program she created last year at Corning Elementary District into a book called 180 Days of Making: How to Incorporate Experiential Learning in Ways that Will Change the World for Your Students.

TRANSFORMATIVE COLLABORATION

Some of Carlson’s favorite collaborative moments include:

■ Seeing probation staff and incarcerated youth forging new relationships through making. Carlson says, “The kids have spoken about how the makerspace has helped them in dealing with strong emotions and in building up their confidence … which will help them in their re-entry into the outside education system.”

■ Helping to write grants so the Tehama County Arts Council could offer a successful “Maker Summer” program with free arts and maker workshops for families.

■ Partnering with San Francisco’s Exploratorium and Redding’s Turtle Bay Exploration Park to offer Maker Educator Meetups (MEM) at Turtle Bay.

■ Arranging a visit from Tinkercad specialists, who will talk about careers in design and fabrication and hold a 3D design session for teachers.

■ Watching local professionals she and friend Melissa Mendonca have enlisted as volunteers share their expertise (in graphic design, music, etc.) with students.

TEACHING A VALEDICTORIAN TO LOVE LEARNING AGAIN

A young woman called Maryn, who was her school’s valedictorian and is now in college, shared her transformative experience with making with Carlson: “In makerspace I learned the importance of failing … and getting back up and trying again and again. … With no expectations of success, I feel free to experiment and truly learn. … Makerspace … teaches you the stuff you don’t learn in the classroom, by applying all of the classroom stuff. And for most of us it taught us how to love learning again.”

TOOLS THEY USE
FUTURE DEVELOPMENT GROUP

► Adobe Creative Cloud
► Arduino kits
► KEVA Planks
► LilyPad Design Kit
► Makey Makey
► Parallax Robotics
► SparkFun Digital Sandbox
► Tinkercad

TRY THIS: THE PAPER BRIDGE PROJECT

Amidon-Bowen’s Jamie Ewing, who did this project during a NASA training, launches the activity by showing a PowerPoint of bridges—from rope bridges to highly engineered bridges.

CHALLENGE: To build the longest bridge between two chairs.

MATERIALS:

• 5 pieces of 8.5 x 11 paper
• 2 pieces of masking tape, each 3 feet long (1 roll for younger kids)
• 1 pair of scissors

Students should work in teams of no more than two or three. Once the challenge has started, answer no questions.

THINGS TO LISTEN FOR: Conversations on how to construct, what the definition of a bridge is, design, redesign, and evaluation of their work.

HINT: Ewing and his PreK students built one together as a class before the students did the challenge themselves.

Software & Online

ADVANCED FILTERING FOR ARISTOTLEINSIGHT::K12
(www.aristotlek12.com)

Sergeant Laboratories announced that advanced filtering is now included with AristotleInsight::K12 for both traditional computers and Chromebooks—making it an affordable, easily managed upgrade from expensive and cumbersome filtering tools. By combining advanced filtering with AristotleInsight::K12’s geo-location, forensic auditing, and utilization reporting capabilities, AristotleInsight::K12 helps schools in maintaining CIPA compliance and teaching digital citizenship.

CAREER CLUSTER INVENTORY TOOL
(www.icevonline.com)

CEV Multimedia announced the addition of the Career Cluster Interest Inventory (CCII) tool to its comprehensive iCEV platform. The CCII provides assistance to students from eighth grade to higher education during career planning. A student completes the interest inventory within a 15-to 20-minute time period and receives information on a career cluster that best fits the student’s interests and skills. Career clusters, 16 groupings of related occupations developed by the U.S. Department of Education, provide essential knowledge and skills to guide in developing programs of study to bridge secondary and postsecondary curriculum.

CLASSFLOW
(www.classflow.com)

ClassFlow, a free collaborative learning application from Promethean, released new resources and tools for teachers and students. The update includes thousands of ready-toteach interactive lessons curated by experts, extended collaboration opportunities for students, free student accounts, and rewards to reinforce students’ positive behaviors. Additionally, teachers can now download ClassFlow Desktop for free. With ClassFlow Desktop, a native app for Window and Mac OS, a teacher can capture anything displayed on their computer and share it with students as interactive lesson content.

CLOUDREADY
(www.neverware.com)

Neverware’s CloudReady operating system transforms Macs and PCs to deliver the same experience as Google Chromebooks. Now the solution supports dual-booting CloudReady with Microsoft Windows on the same computer. With the dual-boot feature, users benefit from the faster response rate and ease of use of a Chrome lab while being able to reboot into Windows for heavier workloads such as graphics or programming. Existing data will be preserved and users will be able to choose between Windows and CloudReady each time they power on their computer.

COMPARE & CONNECT K-12 AND ED-FI IMPLEMENTATION SUITE 2.0
(www.compareandconnectk12.org) (www.ed-fi.org/district)

The community-driven non-profit Ed-Fi Alliance announced the release of the Ed-Fi Implementation Suite 2.0, a set of pre-built technology tools for education agencies to develop and maintain integrated education data systems in their local or district-controlled IT environments. The two main components of the Implementation Suite—the Operational Data Store (a centralized data hub that districts steward themselves) and accompanying API (which helps edtech vendors integrate their products)—are available together as part of one free license. Since Ed-Fi technology does not collect or store student data, districts and states determine the most secure environment to implement the technical components, keeping data storage and management in the hands of appropriate officials. EducationSuperHighway, a national non-profit dedicated to upgrading the Internet access in American public school classrooms, launched a beta version of Compare & Connect K-12, an online tool that makes the Internet services that schools receive more transparent. School district technology directors and superintendents can easily view broadband pricing and bandwidth information for school districts across the country. Compare & Connect K-12 provides transparency by leveraging newly public 2015-16 E-Rate application data to display Internet access and wide area network (WAN) speeds and pricing.

FOLLETT JOINS THE #GOOPEN CAMPAIGN
(www.follettlearning.com)

Follett announced that it will join the U.S. Department of Education’s #GoOpen campaign, committed to supporting districts and educators as they transition to the use of open-licensed educational resources (OERs) in their schools. Follett plans to introduce searching and access to the Learning Registry – a shared repository of learning resource metadata – into its Destiny solution this fall. This new functionality will make it easier for teachers to search for and find free, open educational resources from the Learning Registry alongside print and digital resources owned by their school, creating lesson plans and playlists that drive appropriate content to students.

GALE AND GOOGLE
(www.gale.com/google)

Gale, part of Cengage Learning, has reached a milestone in its quest to improve discoverability and researcher workflow, completing indexing work with Google. Researchers can now easily discover scholarly content from Gale and its partners on Google or Google Scholar, through a pathway that leads directly to their institution or local library. In addition, Gale has integrated Google Apps for Education – including Gmail, Classroom, Drive, and Docs – with over 70 of its products, making it easy for schools to leverage Gale library content directly in the classroom.

GOOGLE TEMPLATES
(www.google.com)

This past fall, Google released a collection of templates in Docs, Sheets, and Slides to create a professional presentation. Recently, Google added new templates designed by five experts in their fields, and made all templates available for the Web as well as Android and iOS devices. One of the updates is a lesson plan and a book report template for Google Docs, created by Reading Rainbow. Another new template is that provided by the Google Science Fair (GSF) for Google Slides, designed to help young scientists prepare a project presentation.

IC3 DIGITAL LITERACY CERTIFICATION GS5
(www.certiport.com/ic3)

Certiport, a Pearson VUE business, announced the release of the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification Global Standard 5 (GS5). IC3 is regularly updated, and GS5 delivers a comprehensive solution for learning how to succeed in an environment that requires the use of computers, devices, or the Internet. IC3 GS5 consists of three individual exams that must be completed to earn the IC3 certification: Computing Fundamentals, Living Online, and Key Applications. The Global Digital Literacy Council, made up of educators, industry experts, and government officials, ratified the new GS5 standard to ensure it is made up of the most relevant foundational computing skills for today’s academic and business environments.

INSIGHT ADVANCE
(www.insightadvance.com)

Insight Education Group announced the launch of its new sister company, Insight ADVANCE. Its flagship product, ADVANCEfeedback, allows teachers to upload video of classroom instruction, share it with peers, coaches, and observers, and then receive detailed, specific, and timely feedback. ADVANCEfeedback can be used on a variety of Web-enabled devices, including mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and computers.

KALTURA VIDEO QUIZZING
(www.kaltura.org)

Kaltura recently developed and fully integrated an Interactive Video Quizzing tool into its platform. Now educational institutions, corporate training teams, and anyone using videos for learning and training can add interactive quizzes to Kaltura video workflows for the purpose of enhancing feedback and assessment during video-based learning. The tool is included in all existing and future Kaltura MediaSpace and Kaltura Application Framework-based products, which include Kaltura’s LMS integrations. Instructors can decide whether the quiz is graded or ungraded, whether the correct answers and score are revealed to viewers, and whether there are hints available.

MYON CLASSICS
(www.myon.com)

myON has added myON Classics collections for middle and high school students to its 10,000-book collection. The myON Classics collections are available at no cost to all myON customers. Aiming to reach middle and high school users, myON Classic books are complete in their original format. Titles include The Scarlet Letter, Metamorphosis, The Invisible Man, War of the Worlds, and fiction by authors such as Mark Twain, Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, and Edith Wharton.

READ 180 UNIVERSAL
(www.hmhco.com/products/read-180)

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) launched READ 180 Universal, the fully-updated next-generation intervention program that uses leading scientific research in brain and cognitive functioning, as well as advances in adaptive learning technology, to create customized instructional paths for struggling readers. The program features new content created specifically to support different areas of the brain with clear knowledge, language, and vocabulary objectives. It also includes HMH Teacher Central, a redesigned learning management system that enables more effective whole-and small-group instruction using real-time data.

READING HORIZONS DISCOVERY
(www.readinghorizons.com and www.metametricsinc.com)

Reading Horizons and MetaMetrics have expanded their partnership to add Lexile measures to the Reading Horizons Discovery Program. Reading Horizons Discovery is a strategy-based reading solution designed for students in K-3 that incorporates multisensory, Orton-Gillingham principles of instruction. The easy-to-use software helps teachers deliver assessments and skill-based lessons for each grade level. Initial assessments ensure that teachers have an accurate measure of each student’s ability and the software adapts to meet the needs and skill levels of those students and provides differentiation as they progress through the program.

SCHOOLOGY AND ONEROSTER
(www.schoology.com and www.imsglobal.org)

Schoology announced plans to support the IMS OneRoster standard, as well as OneRoster integration with Infinite Campus. The integration will allow for seamless and safe syncing between the platforms. The IMS OneRoster API is a subset of the broader Learning Information Services (LIS) standard. Working with Infinite Campus, Schoology will ensure the consistency of student rosters and final grades between systems. Educators will no longer need to manually access and enter this data from LMS to SIS, but instead will have a consistently connected platform enabling a more streamlined teaching process and increased accuracy between platforms.

“SCIENCE OF INNOVATION” VIDEOS
(www.nbclearn.com)

Six new stories in NBC Learn’s “Science of Innovation” video series highlight how innovation can turn fundamental science and engineering ideas into significant societal and economic impacts. Narrated by NBC News and MSNBC anchor Kate Snow, the six videos will be available through NBC affiliate stations, and can also be seen for free online at NBCLearn.com, NSF.gov, Science360.gov, and USPTO.gov. Topics include “3D Bioprinting,” “Origami Structures,” and “Friction-Stir Welding.” Each video aligns to state and national education standards. Lesson plans will be rolled out to help teachers engage students in the classroom.

TECHNOLOGYESSENTIALS
(www.dudesolutions.com)

Dude Solutions, Inc. released TechnologyEssentials, a cloud-based IT asset and workflow management suite for IT professionals. TechnologyEssentials enables IT teams to automatically discover all IT assets connected to a network, as well as maintain access, oversight, and control across their entire organizational technology infrastructure. Designed to serve as a centralized IT backbone for organizations, TechnologyEssentials comprises of three solutions. Incident allows IT professionals to streamline the help desk process via automated workflows, asset tracking, and reporting. Insight offers comprehensive dashboard views, including discovering all IP-addressable devices on the network and capturing critical status updates for software, operating systems, and warranties. Coming out later this year, the Mobile Device Management (MDM) tool enables administrators to remotely manage device policy, supervise device usage, and control application distribution across the network.

VHS CREDIT RECOVERY
(www.thevhscollaborative.org)

The Virtual High School (VHS Inc.), a non-profit organization that offers online learning programs, has enhanced online credit recovery by offering students at risk of falling behind or failing a course three types of Credit Recovery programs: flexible courses, summer school options, and customized courses. The organization offers 0.5 credit classes and 1 credit classes, designed to last 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. Courses include English, Algebra, Geometry, and Biology, can begin mid-semester, and are flexible, self-paced, and teacher-facilitated. Enrollment in the VHS Flexible Courses program is on a rolling basis.

YOUR DIGITAL FOOTPRINT
(www.essdack.org and www.goennounce.com)

ESSDACK collaborated with GoEnnounce to build Your Digital Footprint, an affordable digital citizenship curriculum for secondary students. The curriculum offers ten lessons focusing on the importance of building a positive digital image for students to prepare for college readiness. The ten lessons, along with a pre-and post-test, are aligned to CCSS ELA Anchor Standards and ISTE Standards. The curriculum touches on digital security, copyright, digital literacy, digital communication, and digital image. Lessons can be arranged topically or by grade level. GoEnnounce provides a platform for students to apply and practice the lessons taught in Your Digital Footprint, which is free to use, has safety filtering and human monitoring in place, and has no private messaging or advertisers.

Apps

DIGITAL APPS FOR 21ST CENTURY LEARNING
(www.digitalappspd.com)

DeeperDive Learning, Inc. released Digital Apps for 21st Century Learning, a digital PD course for K-12 educators who need a streamlined way to choose and use applications for their classrooms. The seven-hour asynchronous course delivers the concepts, tools, and best practices needed to successfully identify, select, and implement technology apps for use in learning both inside and outside the classroom. The course is delivered via the MassiveU platform, and is accessible from any Web-enabled mobile device or online screen.

DIMENSIONU GAMES AND TEACHERS APP
(www.dimensionu.com)

Educational videogame developer DimensionU, Inc., announced the release of its mobile educational games on the Android platform. The apps are now available for download on Google Play and Amazon. The company has also made product enhancements to its Web and iOS games as well as its TEACHERS by DimensionU app. For educators, the updated TEACHERS by DimensionU app provides more control over curriculum assignments for students, setting game durations to better fit classroom schedules, creating password-protected game environments for only their students/classes, as well as setting team vs. individual play options. For students, game enhancements include a new game map, new team-based play, and cross-platform multiplayer capabilities enabling Web, Android, and iOS users to play with or against one another.

EDTHENA ADDS METX VIDEOS AND MOBILE APP
(www.edthena.com)

Teachers using Edthena, an online video coaching platform for classroom observation, now have access to the complete library of Measuring Effective Teaching Extension (METX) videos. The METX library, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is one of the largest video collections of classroom practice with more than 2,100 recorded lessons. The Edthena platform enables teachers to interact with and analyze the METX videos, as well as their own teaching videos using the Edthena commenting tools. While watching a video, teachers can add comments at specific points in time. Edthena also launched an iOS app, enabling teachers to upload video of classroom instruction directly from mobile devices.

QUIZLET
(www.quizlet.com)

Quizlet released Practice Test mode, one of the popular study modes on the Quizlet Web site, for its mobile iOS and Android app. Practice Test mode gives students a chance to gauge how they might perform on an in-class test. The app features an “instant feedback” option that provides real-time feedback on correct and incorrect answers. Students can also take custom practice tests with a variety of question types, including multiple choice, true/false, and written questions.

Hardware

LapCabby (www.lapcabby.com) recently introduced a new range of static and portable ICT storage options, to support mixed device deployments. Locka by LapCabby is the new range of durable, static ICT storage solutions, for securing and charging a myriad of devices and accommodating a growing mobile user base. Schools can now create a central ‘hub’ for devices including Chromebooks, laptops and tablets. The Locka can be set up in a number of way-wall-mounted, placed on a desktop, or stacked together on the floor. The range also offers control on the level of access required with digital key pad access, door-per-device for BYOD, or one locked door securing multiple devices. The UniCabby supports a multitude of devices up to 14,” including Chromebooks, tablets, netbooks, and laptops, with or without protective cases. The unique design combines clever cable storage in the rear of the unit with a custom-molded shelf, allowing multiple adaptor exit points, to deliver streamlined and space-efficient cable management.

Califone (www.califone.com) introduced its Kids Headphone, smaller in size and durable to fit the needs of younger listeners. The headphone includes a headband with slightly less inward pressure than models for older students, but still enough to block external ambient noise. The headphone has cushioned circumaural ear cups and an adjustable headband that fits smaller head sizes. The ear cups block ambient noise, helping students stay on task while also reducing the need to increase the volume, protecting their hearing.

Ricoh (www.ricoh.com) introduced a new projector that offers a larger canvas, ideal for midsize and large conferences and classrooms, with an expanded projection range, increased brightness, and flexible setup options. The RICOH PJ WU5570 can project up to a 300-inch screen size, and features pre-installed lenses with up to 5,500 lumens of brightness. The projector also features WUXGA resolution of 1920x1200 pixels, 1:8 power zoom, and a 9,000:1 high contrast mode. Vertical and horizontal lens shift and vertical and horizontal keystoning provide greater flexibility in configuration. Users can control the projector through Crestron, AMX, and PJLINK systems. An optional Eco mode consumes up to 20 percent less power and provides 20 percent longer lamp life than in normal mode.

Mimio (www.mimio.com) added 4K ultra-high definition (UHD) to its line of touch displays. The new UHD MimioDisplay offers four times the resolution of conventional 1080P high-definition displays. Its size and LED backlighting make lessons more visually striking, even in large classrooms. Available in 75-inch and 84-inch diagonal sizes, the 4K UHD MimioDisplay device uses Touch 360° interactive technology to drive seamless collaborative learning. Up to ten single-point touch users or five dual-touch and gestures users can work simultaneously anywhere on the display. With its built-in stereo speakers, there is no need for a separate audio system. The MimioDisplay touch display is integrated with other MimioClassroom products, including the MimioMobile collaboration and assessment app. The display also comes with MimioStudio classroom software.

STM Bags (www.stmbags.com) has created the dux, a multi-generation iPad case combining a protective outer shell and screen cover for an all-in-one rugged design. With a reinforced back panel and corners, the dux is tough enough to meet U.S. Department of Defense Standard 810F/G protocols, and will protect any iPad from drops up to 4 feet. The dux is made with durable polycarbonate materials that will repel the occasional spill or drip. It weighs under a pound, making it light yet still durable. Additionally, the dux is lined with microfiber to protect screens from scratches.

Shuttle Computer Group (www.us.shuttle.com) and zSpace (www.zspace.com) have teamed up to create a desktop virtual reality solution used in K-12 schools and universities. zSpace’s virtual reality environment offers over 250 STEM lesson plans and activities for educators. Virtual-holographic images can be “lifted” from the screen and manipulated with the stylus. Some applications provide multi-sensory feedback—for example, students working with a virtual heart can see it pumping, hear it, and feel it beating. Due to the heavy graphic requirements of 3D applications, some zSpace displays need intensive computing power, so they turned to Shuttle. With Shuttle, zSpace offers a solution with a smaller footprint without risking performance.

Software & Online

CLASSLINK ONECLICK FOR BRITANNICA SCHOOL
(www.classlink.com and www.school.eb.com)

ClassLink announced a new single sign-on connection to Britannica School, the online classroom information solution from Britannica Digital Learning for students and teachers in K-12. ClassLink OneClick delivers single sign-on to digital learning resources, like Britannica School, and to files, whether they are stored in the cloud, on a device, or on the school network.

CONTENTKEEPER LOADBALANCING APPLIANCE
(www.contentkeeper.com)

ContentKeeper, a provider of Web and mobile filtering and reporting solutions for next-generation learning environments, released the ContentKeeper Load Balancing Appliance (CK-LBA). The CK-LBA is fully integrated with ContentKeeper Web and ContentKeeper Secure Internet Gateway, but can be used with any layer 2 device. The CKLBA comes in multiple configurations to accommodate different traffic requirements, from 1G to 40G. The appliance allows districts to seamlessly spread multi-gig traffic loads across an array of devices. The CK-LBA also allows districts to build in both high availability and fault tolerance into their network infrastructure.

DREMEL DREAMS
(www.3dprinter.dremel.com/3d-dreams)

Dremel announced the Dremel Dreams program, a digital ecosystem that promotes a student-driven learning environment for 3D printing. The program equips educators with a comprehensive toolkit for classroom support, including 3D-specific lesson plans and intuitive design software and hardware. The program integrates 3D printing into the classroom with lesson plans developed by curriculum experts at Florida State University. The lesson plans and resources are designed to nurture the confidence of educators and students as they explore hands-on applications of STEM in the classroom. Ten curriculum-based lesson plans and their corresponding 3D model kits are included with the Dremel 3D Idea Builder printer.

EPALS GLOBAL COMMUNITY
(www.epals.com)

A division of Cricket Media, ePals safely connects millions of students and teachers across 200 countries to reinforce culture, language, and subject-based learning. With the free ePals Global Community, students can collaborate with peers in countries around the world. STEAM, English Language Arts, and Social Studies are among the core-curricular skills students practice within the larger context of cultural investigations on topics such as what it’s like to grow up in Turkey or Cambodia, the causes and effects of poverty globally, and how recipes from Spain, Russia, Holland, and the American South reflect regional beliefs and customs. A revamped interface, navigation, and connection capabilities now make it easier for teachers to search and find the right professional matches for collaborative classroom “Experiences.”

FOLLETT AND CENGAGE CTE
(www.fes.follett.com)

To help prepare students in grades 9 through 12 for college and careers, Follett teamed up with Cengage Learning to offer more than 1,700 of Cengage Learning’s CTE titles, focusing on Business Education, Computing, and STEM. Cengage Learning’s CTE digital and textbook resources – including virtual labs and simulations – fully support 21st century learning skills and center on outcomes that empower, engage, and help learners achieve success in the classroom and beyond.

FRONT ROW ELA
(www.frontrowed.com)

Front Row Education, Inc. expanded their ELA program to offer a new writing component for students in grades 1-8. The new writing feature is integrated into the larger ELA assignments, providing a writing prompt for every article, at every level. Teachers assign the prompts directly to their students based on their proficiency level. Once completed, teachers can review and provide feedback directly from their dashboard.

FUEL EDUCATION CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
(www.getfueled.com/careerpathways)

To help high schools launch comprehensive CTE programs that offer students opportunities to earn a high school diploma and industry certifications, Fuel Education (FuelEd) has launched Career Readiness Pathways, an online and blended learning program for CTE. Schools can implement Career Readiness Pathways with their own teachers, or they can opt to fully or partially staff their CTE programs with FuelEd’s certified instructors to expand students’ access to different career pathways. The program offers both a comprehensive four-year program and an accelerated program so students can start a career pathway as late as 11th grade and still be prepared for certification by graduation.

GREEN TEST PREP
(www.greentestprep.com)

GreenTestPrep.com offers a customized learning program for SAT and ACT test that adapts to students at all levels of advancement and presents curriculum in a “choose your own adventure” style. Students can customize their study based on strengths, weaknesses, schedule, and the amount of time they have to prep. The program tracks student scores so parents and students can monitor progress. The average Green Test Prep user’s scores have been shown to increase by an average 346.57 points on the SAT and 4.66 points on the ACT (independently verified by the Better Business Bureau).

K3000+ FIREFLY ENHANCEMENTS
(www.fireflybykurzweil.com)

Kurzweil Education announced a next-generation interface for k3000+firefly, a comprehensive solution for helping students read, understand, and demonstrate knowledge. The new interface features tabs and icons that simplify pathways. Additional enhancements include simplified navigation, a Recent Documents section where users can pick up where they left off, and quickly adjustable Audio Options in user-friendly dropdowns.

KNOMADIX
(www.knomadix.com)

Knomadix introduced a customizable, interactive learning platform that converts static content such as PDFs and videos into fully interactive, dynamic content. This approach to teaching allows educators to create personalized lessons that integrate mobile devices into workflows and maximize the power of digital devices in today’s classrooms. District-level and school-level Instructional specialists, as well as teachers, can transform static PDF or video resources into engaging dynamic content such as interactive worksheets with instant feedback, automatic grading, and differentiated instruction; multimodal, gamified content; customized instructional videos with embedded activities and assessments; and virtual interactive manipulatives, including number board, geometry toolbox, and multimedia flashcards, that deepen student engagement.

KNOVATION CONTENT COLLECTION
(www.knovationlearning.com)

Knovation has increased access to its content collection, containing hundreds of thousands of professionally-evaluated online resources that are hand-selected, standards-aligned, and tagged by curriculum experts following a rigorous certification process. Previously, the Knovation Content Collection was only available through the netTrekker and icurio.

LEARNING BIRD QUIZZES
(www.learningbird.com)

Learning Bird added quizzes to its learning platform, simplifying the process for teachers to create and assign quizzes and enabling students to test their understanding of a topic. Teachers have direct access to tens of thousands of topic-aligned questions that they can use to build quizzes. This allows them to easily check for understanding and respond quickly and intervene as needed. Administrators can now also see reports on overall Learning Bird usage and can view student results and progress at the individual, class, and school levels.

MICROSOFT MINECRAFT: EDUCATION EDITION
(www.education.minecraft.net) and OneNote (www.onenote.com/learningtoools)

Microsoft is acquiring MinecraftEdu and investing in a new and expanded version of Minecraft for the classroom called Minecraft: Education Edition. Arriving this summer, Minecraft: Education Edition aims to reach educators around the world with a richer set of features and thriving community. Minecraft is an open world that promotes creativity, collaboration, and problem solving. It’s enjoyed by a worldwide community of over 100 million players who constantly inspire us with their creations. Microsoft also introduced Learning Tools for OneNote, a toolbar add-in for OneNote 2013 and 2016, which improves reading and writing experiences for all students—including for students with learning differences like dyslexia. The OneNote Learning Tools Immersive Reader uses simultaneous highlighting and voicing text, allowing users to improve focus and reading speed.

ORMI
(www.ormi.exou.com)

EXO U announced the North American launch of Ormi, its new BYOD teaching platform. Ormi (meaning “momentum” in Greek) was designed to minimize steps and eliminate common interruptions experienced by teachers when attempting to integrate mobile devices into classroom lessons. Teachers and students (when given permission) can share content to individuals, groups, a central display, or the entire class. Students and teachers can also collaborate through group messaging and sharing. As an added bonus, setting up Ormi takes less than two minutes. The platform works with or without internet access and does not require upgrades to existing network infrastructure. Student devices remain tethered to the classes they are used in, so there is no need to reconnect and lose time at the start of every lesson or day. An activity manager enables teachers and students to immediately return to any class or content from the previous week.

ROCKET WEB FILTER
(www.lightspeedsystems.com/wf3)

Lightspeed Systems released version 3 of its Rocket Web Filter, a content filter for K-12 schools, with increased speed, live reports, easy SSL traffic handling, and more. The upgrade features a sleek new user interface as well as a variety of new features to simplify school network management. Rocket Web Filter is powered by Lightspeed Systems’ Rocket appliances, either on school networks on in the cloud.

SCHOLASTIC NEWS ELECTION 2016
(www.scholastic.com/election)

The new Scholastic News Election 2016 Web site is designed engage students in the 2016 Presidential Election and enhances the news stories from Scholastic classroom magazines. The site features age-appropriate news and information about the electoral process, and helps kids learn about the candidates and the democratic process, track the latest primary and caucus results on interactive maps, and vote in polls on the issues that matter most to them. Also featured are original reports from the campaign trail written by Kid Reporters ages 10–14 in the Scholastic News Kids Press Corps.

SRA FLEX LITERACY PROJECTS JUMPSTART
(www.flexliteracy.com)

McGraw-Hill Education launched SRA FLEX Literacy Projects Jumpstart, a free and easy-to-implement introduction to project-based literacy intervention for grades 3-12. The complimentary 15-day lesson plan covers all five stages of the SRA FLEX Project Experience in an easy-to-follow sequence, aiming to boost literacy skills through reading, writing-centered activities, and group collaboration. The bundle includes the FLEX Literacy Projects Startup Guide and Login Card, FLEX Literacy Projects resources for either Elementary (3-5) or Secondary (6 and above) classrooms, a Collaboration, Presentation and Writing Assessment Guide, and a FLEX Literacy Projects ePresentation, among other FLEX Literacy Projects Resources.

TIPS/CHILDHELP HOTLINE
(www.awareity.com)

Awareity, Inc. introduced a new hotline/phone service option from Childhelp. The TIPS/Childhelp Hotline partnership empowers community members to come forward and provides a valuable and easy to use service for anyone who prefers to make a phone call and talk to a real person to report a threat or concern involving their organization, school, or community.

TKL AND DIMENSIONU PD COURSE
(www.teachnkidslearn.com and www.dimensionu.com)

Teach n’ Kids Learn (TKL) and DimensionU have partnered to create an online professional development course that supports teachers’ instruction in mathematics and language arts through gamification, quickly and easily. The DimensionU portfolio of educational games offers a solid foundation with demonstrated improvement in students’ achievement results. TKL’s instructional methodology guarantees teachers immediate implementation in the classroom, individualized support, and easy-to-use examples for applying the newly acquired techniques.

TURNITIN REVISION ASSISTANT
(www.turnitin.com)

Turnitin introduced Revision Assistant, a formative writing tool that offers immediate, actionable feedback on all aspects of student writing. Turnitin Revision Assistant, for grades 6-12 and developmental writing in higher education, lets students request a ‘Signal Check’ which provides a visualization of how they are performing on writing traits such as focus, use of evidence, or organization. Actionable comments appear in the margins of students’ compositions and are tied to sentences highlighted in the text. This feedback emphasizes areas of strength, as well as suggestions for sentence-level improvements.

VHS INC. SPACE STATION ACADEMY
(www.thevirtualhighschool.org and www.greatfutures.org)

The Virtual High School (VHS Inc.) partnered with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) to provide the Florida Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs with an after-school version of the popular Space Station Academy course. Space Station Academy was developed by VHS in collaboration with astronauts, scientists, and educators at the Association of Space Explorers and the Technical Education Research Center (TERC). The course treats students as cadets in training for their first flight to space.

WITH MATH I CAN
(www.withmathican.org)

Amazon Education and TenMarks, in partnership with ASCD, Character Lab, Common Sense Education, National Council of Teacher Mathematics (NCTM), Project for Education Research That Scales (PERTS), ClassDoJo, and Teaching Channel, has announced an initiative to stop the statement, “I’m not good at math.” The initiative promotes a “growth mindset,” the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed, which leads to an increased focus on the process of learning rather than the outcome. “With Math I Can” asks teachers and students who take the pledge to replace saying, “I’m not good at math” with statements like, “I will learn from my mistakes” or “I will persevere through challenges in math.” The “With Math I can” Web site also offers free resources for teachers to use with their students to make a change.

Apps

ADOBE VOICE FOR IPHONE
(www.adobe.com)

Adobe announced the availability of Adobe Voice for iPhone, a free animated video app that lets users create and share engaging video stories in minutes. The app reimagines presentation, story creation, and delivery in an easily shareable format for any audience – and now users can create on their iPad or iPhone and their projects will automatically sync.

BELKIN STAGE PRO 3.0
(www.belkin.com)

Belkin released the newest version of its easy-to-use video production platform Stage Pro, version 3.0. As an ideal tool for documenting or creating presentations, Stage Pro is a classroom teaching and learning asset. Previously only available for use in non-iOS tablet devices, Stage Pro v.3.0 is now optimized for the iPhone and iPad.

BLOOMZ APP
(www.bloomz.net)

Bloomz introduced its mobile and Web app that connects teachers with today’s mobile and social-media-savvy parents. The app saves teachers time by integrating communication, coordination, and community-building tools—all in one easy-to-use app. Bloomz allows teachers to connect with parents by sharing photos and updates about the day’s activities, and can also send announcements for assignment due dates, reminders of registration deadlines, or alerts for urgent matters. Its integrated class calendar gives school communities one place where they can coordinate with parents, whether planning class activities, organizing field trips, or tracking parent-teacher conference signups. Bloomz also empowers parents to collaborate with each other, volunteer, and participate in these school activities.

PBS WORLD EXPLORER VIDEO COLLECTION
(www.pbslearningmedia.org)

PBS LearningMedia released its PBS World Explorer video collection, which tells the tales of world-famous explorers, both from centuries ago and modern times. The short (mostly under five minutes) videos provide “on-the-go” students and adults with a convenient way to watch and learn in mini “cram sessions.” Each video includes fun animations and engaging music to capture the viewer’s interest. Featured famous explorers include Ponce de Leon, Amerigo Vespucci, Neil Armstrong, and Marco Polo.

TABPILOT TEACHER TOOLS FOR IOS
(www.tabpilot.com)

TabPilot recently released Teacher Tools for iOS. The app lets teachers control student iPads in their classrooms with tools previously only accessible through the cloud-based teacher console, normally accessed on the teacher’s computer. Teacher Tools is a set of features of TabPilot MDM for Schools. Teachers choose a class to manage and then have the ability to freeze student screens, lock students into a single app, clear student passcodes with a few clicks, or lock students into a single web site or group of pre-selected sites. Teachers can also choose a student iPad to be broadcast to the classroom projector via Apple Airplay.

Hardware

SMART Technologies and Samsung (www.samsung.com/education) have teamed up to offer a classroom-widepackage including ten Samsung Chromebook 3 devices, 60 associated licenses for SMART amp, ten Google Device Management licenses, and access to SMART’s online professional development. SMART amp is a cloud-based solution that connects interactive displays, PCs, laptops, and tablets while enabling teachers and students to collaborate and co-create in real time, do in-class assessment, connect to shared digital workspaces, and interact with Web-based learning materials regardless of location or device. This new bundle, which is fully integrated with Google Classroom and Apps for Education, provides the hardware, software, and training necessary to achieve a pedagogical shift toward student-led learning.

Vernier (www.vernier.com) has developed LabQuest Stream, a wireless and USB sensor interface that allows students to collect scientific data from multiple sensors with a mobile device, Chromebook, or computer. LabQuest Stream provides educators the flexibility to collect data using a wide variety of computing platforms, and it is compatible with more than 50 Vernier sensors. Supported software includes Vernier Graphical Analysis apps, Logger Pro, and Logger Lite software. The interface’s five sensor ports support a wide array of Vernier sensors for conducting multi-variable experiments and data-logging activities. Students can use LabQuest Stream to collect up to 10,000 samples per second using wireless functionality or up to 100,000 samples per second when using USB connectivity.

Promethean (www.prometheanworld.com/activwall) released the next generation of its ActivWall System. The widescreen surface of the new ActivWall product line is designed as a comprehensive collaborative learning solution, offering multi-touch interactivity, HD viewing, and dry-erase writing. Directly from the home screen, teachers can browse the Web, start a white-boarding session, and wirelessly connect to mirror their devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops to the surface. The ActivWall system includes a widescreen interactive surface, a DLP solid-state projector, built-in speakers, interactive software, and a wireless mirroring system.

BenQ America Corp. (www.benq.us) announced its RP790 interactive flat panel (IFP) display, a 79-inch, 4K classroom-ready IFP that replaces standard blackboards, whiteboards, and interactive whiteboards. The RP790 offers easy-to-use, accurate and reliable multi-touch technology with high image quality and complete multimedia connectivity to any learning environment. Featuring ten touch points, the 79-inch, 4K UHD IFP lets users interact with vibrant content using an integrated Android PC annotation program. To boost the visual experience, the panel comes equipped with BenQ’s suite of Eye-Care tools such as antiglare glass to counter light reflection, Low Blue Light technology, and ZeroFlicker backlight to reduce eye fatigue during long hours of content viewing and instruction.

HP (www.hp.com) announced the HP Chromebook 11 G4 Education Edition (EE), a durable, lightweight, fanless Chromebook that’s just 20 mm thin and weighs 2.7 pounds. With rugged construction accents like co-molded rubber edges, the device passes HP’s 70 cm drop test. The spill-resistant keyboard helps keep the Chromebook safe from water-related accidents and includes features like a 180-degree hinge that allows the Chromebook to lay flat for easy collaboration, as well as an optional IPS panel that provides wide viewing angles, ideal for students working together on a project.

Lightspeed Technologies (www.lightspeed-tek.com) released a new line of classroom audio solutions featuring Access Technology, designed for the full-access, collaborative classroom. The 955 Access component-based system supports whole-room instruction, while delivering clarity and even distribution of sound throughout the classroom. The Access Link lets teachers add wireless microphones to virtually any amplifier and speaker system, and works in any classroom configuration and at long distances. The third solution, Flexcat, is a two-way audio communication system designed for small-group instruction. It consists of a wireless microphone and earpiece for the teacher and multiple two-way audio pods equipped with a microphone and a speaker for each small student group.

Panasonic (www.business.panasonic.com/PT-RZ570U) introduced a new PT-RZ570U 1-Chip DLP Laser Phosphor projector. This compact model is the latest in the SOLID SHINE lineup and is positioned towards the middle of Panasonic’s range for education, offering a balance of high 5,000 lm brightness, brilliant picture quality, up to 20,000-hour maintenance-free operation, and practical features for use in mid-size classrooms with about 50-student capacity. Utilizing the latest DLP module for detailed WUXGA resolution and new-generation solid-state laser diodes, PT-RZ570U’s performance stems from a four-segment Quartet Color Harmonizer color wheel that improves efficiency from the laser light source, boosting the perceived brightness and improving color accuracy.

Kensington (www.kensington.com) launched the Secure Cabinet Trolley for the safe and easy movement of Kensington Charge & Sync Cabinets, Universal Tablet. The Secure Cabinet Trolley can stack up to two Charge & Sync Cabinets, Universal Tablet that hold the iPad, Galaxy Tab, Microsoft Surface 3 and other tablets. Four rubber wheels allow trolley to spin and roll in any direction, while locking pedals on the two front wheels ensures trolley won’t roll out of position.

Califone International LLC (www.califone.com) has updated its best-selling 3068AV headphone by offering the tool as a headset. The headset features an attached noise-reducing microphone to engage students in active speaking and listening, and includes two of the most popular audio plugs, the 3.5 mm To Go and USB, for versatile use with mobile, computer, or gaming devices.

LocknCharge (www.lockncharge.com) released the Joey 30 Cart, an ultra-compatible charging and storage cart for mobile devices. The cart can charge, store, and transport up to 30 of nearly any mobile device. The divider system and top-loading design make accessing devices easy for students and educators, and multiple access points allow students to get devices faster. The Cart is manufactured with high quality steel material, but in a lightweight form.

Samsung also partnered with Tidebreak (www.tidebreak.com) to combine Tidebreak’s collaboration software with Samsung large-format and interactive displays (LFD), for a BYOD compatible solution that enables peer-to-peer collaboration and co-creation of content on a single screen. Student devices – including laptops, tablets, and smartphones – can connect wirelessly, enabling students to quickly share content and freely exchange ideas, while educators can facilitate the experience. Each bundle includes Samsung Large Format Displays and/or E-boards and a 30-day license for one of Tidebreak’s collaboration software options (ClassSpot, ClassSpot PBL, or TeamSpot), depending on instructional needs.

Epson (www.epson.com/documentcameras) announced the new DC-21 high-definition document camera for education. The portable document camera delivers advanced clarity and color with HD 1080p resolution and a large imaging sensor, as well as 12x optical zoom and 10x digital zoom. The DC-21 offers HDMI connectivity for high-definition video and an included microscope adapter for sharing vivid magnified images. In addition, educators can record audio with video using the built-in microphone to create lessons for remote classrooms or re-watch lessons for review.

InFocus Corporation (www.infocus.com) is enhancing its focus on the education market with products, extended services and support, and discount programs. The Inspire Education Program offers schools additional discounts and extended warranties on presentation and collaboration solutions tailored for the classroom, including the InFocus JTouch interactive displays, InFocus Mondopad, InFocus Q Tablets, and projectors with built-in wireless abilities.

Acer (www.acer.com) announced its new TravelMate B117 notebooks, tailor-made for education and available in late March 2016 with prices starting at $229.99. The notebooks are powered by Windows 10 Pro and support Acer TeachSmart, which empowers teachers with tools and cloud-based services to distribute, collect, and monitor class materials and assignments digitally. The TravelMate B117 features a ruggedized frame with a rubber strip framing the chassis to protect the device from bumps and drops. The device is easy to carry, weighing 2.9 pounds and measuring just 0.8 inches thin. A solid hinge which opens to 180 degrees can take up to 25,000 swings, while the cover can withstand up to 132 pounds of pressure. Additionally, the spill-resistant keyboard has a water drainage design that protects against accidental spills.

Software & Online

ACHIEVE3000 LEADERSHIP EDITION
(www.achieve3000.com)

Achieve3000 released a new digital dashboard called Leadership Edition, which gives school and district leaders access to the timely, accurate, and meaningful data needed to inform effective action plans and student placement in tiered intervention programs. Designed to help educators gain a deeper understanding of the literacy needs of their various student populations, Leadership Edition presents key metrics such as student usage, performance, and progress towards college and career readiness in easy-to-read, visual formats.

DROPOUT DETECTIVE
(www.aspiredu.com)

AspirEDU, a provider of student retention and instructor performance analytics, released new functionality to support academic advisors and instructors of face-to-face courses. AspirEDU’s Dropout Detective analyzes the behavior and academic success of the student population by reviewing LMS data on a daily basis. Dropout Detective provides dashboards to administrators, advisors, and instructors that identify students that are at risk of dropping out or failing courses. The new software release allows schools to make changes in advisor assignments that rebuild the advisors’ dashboards in real time. Additionally, instructors can manually flag at-risk students and automatically send alerts to the appropriate advisors.

EDCO
(www.ed.co)

Edco, the online fundraising platform for K-12 school teams and clubs, introduced an updated platform that features a Step-by-Step Fundraising Guide, a suite of interactive tools that walks users through the fundraising process. The Step-by-Step Fundraising Guide helps students and teachers describe their funding needs and present their activity as a compelling fundraising campaign. It then provides instructions for communicating with friends, family members, and other community stakeholders. To ensure students’ safety and privacy, all correspondence through the platform uses a secure Edco email address.

GALE SCIENCE PRODUCTS FOR LIBRARIES
(www.gale.com)

Gale, a part of Cengage Learning, is offering three new science products for academic and school libraries. The products are designed to help students understand science beyond the text, and combine Gale’s curriculum-aligned reference content with partner CyberScience’s interactive 3D models. Two products, geared primarily for the academic market, cover the topics of human anatomy and chemistry, while a third resource combines multiple science topics and can be used as refreshers in introductory college science courses or as a basic science learning tool in high schools.

GREATKIDS TEST GUIDE FOR PARENTS
(www.greatschools.org)

The national non-profit GreatSchools and the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) announced a collaboration to assist parents in supporting their kids’ learning by unpacking PARCC test scores through the new GreatKids Test Guide for Parents. Twenty math and English Language Arts (ELA) teachers from states using Common Core aligned assessments were part of the development process behind the GreatKids Test Guide for parents. Through the lens of their experiences in the classroom, they provided insight into what supports parents need to make the best use of their child’s test results to improve their academic growth. These teachers included members of the PARCC Educator Leader Cadres, teacher fellows from America Achieves, and teachers affiliated with Educators for Excellence.

HAPARA WORKSPACE
(www.hapara.com)

Hapara Workspace is a platform for teachers and students to create highly personalized learning experiences that deepen collaboration and differentiation. Teachers are able to streamline the process by tracking progress, submissions, and providing feedback to students. In addition, students now have an intuitive interface to manage their assignments and customize their submissions. Additionally, teachers can share their Workspaces with others, across the world.

I-READY CENTRAL
(www.i-readycentral.com)

Curriculum Associates recently launched i-Ready Central to help teachers, principals, and administrators implement the i-Ready program. The online portal, offered at no additional cost to i-Ready users and accessible 24/7, includes more than 160 resources organized around stages of implementation throughout the school year. These resources, including tips, training videos, and planning tools, will be updated frequently to ensure educators have the most current, relevant content at their fingertips.

LEGO EDUCATION WEDO 2.0
(www.education.lego.com)

LEGO Education released WeDo 2.0, a wireless, tablet-ready, robot-based learning system for the elementary school science curriculum. Correlated to standards-based projects, the solution engages and motivates students to solve real-world science problems by working with engineering, technology, and coding through the LEGO classroom-friendly software and 40+ hours of hands-on projects. LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 strengthens students’ understanding and develops competencies across key science topics including physical sciences, life sciences, earth and space sciences, and engineering.

PARTICIPATE LEARNING
(www.participate.com)

Participate Learning encourages K-20 educators to collaborate in finding and using the best digital resources within schools, districts, and personal learning networks. With Participate Learning’s Collections, teachers can find and curate educational websites, apps, and videos for improving student outcomes and place these in a digital folder. The newly launched collaboration feature gives educators a way to invite colleagues from within their school or across the country to discuss and share Collections in real time.

PEARSON VUE
(www.pearsonvue.com)

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, has extended its partnership with global computer-based testing leader Pearson VUE to deliver a range of professional certification exams globally as sole vendor. The agreement means that the certification exams which cover specialist areas such as IT service management, Software Testing, Security, and Business Analysis – along with new exams planned in the near future – will be delivered via Pearson VUE’s network of over 5,000 test centres around the world.

POWERSCHOOL AND INFOSNAP
(www.powerschool.com and www.infosnap.com)

PowerSchool Group LLC, provider of K-12 Student Information Systems (SIS), has purchased InfoSnap, Inc., a provider of cloud-based Online Registration Management and School Choice / Lottery solutions for K-12 public, private and charter schools. Acquiring InfoSnap enables PowerSchool to expand its core SIS platform to address the demand for full featured, integrated registration and school choice solutions.

PRINCIPLES OF CODING
(www.odysseyware.com)

Odysseyware, provider of customizable online courses for K-12 education, has added a “Principles of Coding” course to its curriculum. The course is designed to introduce middle school students to the basics of coding and to help them delve into the thought processes behind designing technology by creating games, simulations, and even a mobile application. The course combines project-based learning, oral communication, modeling, and traditional instructional methods so students are able to see the connection between the core subjects and computer science while examining the global impact of technology.

WHOOO’S READING
(www.learn2earn.org)

Learn2Earn announced a major update to its Whooo’s Reading platform. In late fall 2015, the company expanded its reading-writing connection component and implementing more tools to help teachers monitor reading comprehension growth. Previously, students could use the Whooo’s Reading platform to answer a short CCSS-aligned comprehension question about a book they recently read or to write a brief review. Now, Learn2Earn has added the option of writing longer “blog post-style” responses of about 750 characters. Based on the Common Core writing standards, the blog posts are grouped into three categories: informational, opinion, and narrative writing.

Apps

ADOBE POST
(www.adobe.com)

Adobe announced the availability of Adobe Post, a free iPhone app that lets users turn words and images into beautiful designs that are instantly sharable across social channels. The app features design filters that automatically arrange images and text in a few simple taps, as well as responsive text that adjusts when moved or resized. Auto Recolor palettes provide color schemes to reduce the time spent searching for the perfect combination of colors, and an Inspiration Wall that presents layouts and designs.

PBS KIDS SCRATCHJR
(www.pbskids.org)

PBS KIDS released its first coding app called PBS KIDS ScratchJr. Designed for kids ages 5-8 and available for free from the App Store and Google Play, PBS KIDS ScratchJr enables kids to create their own interactive stories and games featuring their favorite characters from Wild Kratts, Nature Cat, WordGirl, and Peg + Cat. By snapping together colorful programming blocks, children can make characters move, jump, dance, and sing. In the process, kids will learn to solve problems, design projects, and express themselves creatively.

WOLFIE IPAD APP
(www.tonara.com/wolfie-app)

Tonara partnered with Alfred Music to bring piano pedagogy to the Wolfie iPad app. Now, teachers and students can access an expanded music learning catalog, which includes Alfred’s Premier Piano Course and Alfred’s Basic Piano Library as well as traditional and contemporary scores that have been adapted to every skill level. With features such as the app’s built-in cursor which highlights the student’s progress note-by-note, anyone can use Wolfie to learn how to better decipher music and develop sight reading skills and rhythm.

WORD FIREWORKS
(www.wordfireworks.com)

Word Fireworks is a language learning game that teaches kids to read and write Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Hebrew, by setting off pyrotechnics. As players proceed through the game, they gain language skill and unlock more fireworks. The app is available for Android devices as well as the iPhone and iPad.

Hardware

Dremel (www.dremel3d.com/education) announced a 3D printer designed to support teachers and demystify 3D printing technology in the classroom. The Dremel 3D Idea Builder’s easy-to-use software and resources integrate with existing STEM curriculum. The printer comes with ten curriculum-based lesson plans and 3D model kits designed for exploring STEM education with the nuances of 3D printing. To help teachers while they implement 3D printing, 1:1 customer support and training are available via phone, Skype, online chat, and email.

NEC Display Solutions of America (www.necdisplay.com) announced the MultiSync E233WM widescreen desktop monitor with LED backlighting. The 23-inch display includes ecofriendly features and a slim design to save desk space. Compared to previous generation LCDs, the E233WM display radiates less heat, uses less packaging, and maximizes recycled plastics in its production. The company also released the MultiSync EA305WMi and EA275WMi, 30-inch and 27-inch displays. Designed for dual monitor configurations, these widescreen models feature IPS panel technology with wide viewing angles (178° horizontal/vertical), DisplayPort 1.2 inputs and outputs, and ControlSync technology that allows users to control up to six displays in a multi-monitor configuration.

Texas Instruments (www.ti.com) announced its 0.67-inch 4K UHD chip for education projection displays, home theater, and business. The DLP 4K UHD chipset combines the fast switching speed of the digital micromirror device (DMD) with advanced image processing. This latest DLP Products offering in a single-chip projector architecture enables high resolution and high brightness solutions at a price point that allows manufacturers to expand 4K UHD projection displays to a broad audience.

Toshiba Surveillance & IP Video Products (www.toshibasecurity. com) announced the availability of a new program specially designed for K-12 schools and higher education institutions. The Toshiba Surveillance Education Program presents easy to manage, and comprehensive IP video surveillance options. The program offers special pricing on Toshiba cameras, accessories, software, and recorders, as well as on-going alerting, systems reporting, and Toshiba engineer support.

Bretford Manufacturing Inc. (www.bretford.com) announced the addition of three new product additions to its EDU 2.0 line of smart, powered, and flexible furniture. The new product additions include the EXPLORE Flip and Nest Youth Height Tables (pictured), EXPLORE Pedestal Base Tables, and MOTIV Wall Benches. The new EXPLORE Flip and Nest Youth Height Tables adapt to the individual learning styles of young students by giving them the power to create their own space. The tables are available in rectangle, trapezoid, quarter round, and half round sizes. The EXPLORE Pedestal Base Tables are ideal for any meeting or group collaboration with seating up to eight. Tables are available in sitting and standing heights with a single or double base. The freestanding MOTIV Wall Bench is flat on one side so it can be placed directly against a wall, and rounded on the other to provide comfort when seated. Bretford also announced the availability of its TechGuard Lockers, personal charging lockers that can simultaneously charge up to three devices. Available in 1-, 5- or 10-bay configurations, each bay is equipped to hold a 15.5-inch laptop, 10-inch tablet, and a phone, with the ability to charge them all at once.

Nor-Tech (www.nor-tech.com) introduced a mobile laptop cart for 2016. The laptop charging cart, also available for Chromebooks and tablets (including both iPad and Android), incorporates energy-saving features and leading-edge battery-charging technology. The carts can be powered by a single standard AC outlet and have locking options available for extra safety and security. Nor-Tech’s power management features eliminate overloaded circuits and automatically prioritize the lowest charged units. The turnkey solution, which accommodates all brands, can be integrated into existing wired and wireless environments.

MakerBot (www.makerbot.com) announced the MakerBot Smart Extruder+, a new swappable extruder for Fifth Generation MakerBot 3D Printers that is designed and tested for better print performance over a longer period of time. With improved components and an enhanced sensor system, the Smart Extruder+ is designed to provide a streamlined and reliable printing process from start to finish. The Smart Extruder+ features improved key components to ensure longer-lasting reliability, such as an improved thermal management system and an extended PTFE tube to feed the filament into the nozzle. Additional improvements include faster print start up and refined build plate leveling, the process of calibrating a 3D printer.

PASCO Scientific (www.pasco.com) introduced a line of wireless sensors that are compatible with multiple technology platforms, including Windows, Mac, iPad and iPhone, Android tablets and phones, and Chromebooks. The line, which includes wireless pH, temperature, pressure, and force/acceleration sensors, simplifies lab setup and removes the clutter of cables. The wireless technology also helps schools save money by eliminating the need for a separate device to connect sensors to a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Students can simply transmit the data directly from the wireless sensor to their device.

Software & Online

ADOBE SLATE FOR THE WEB
(www.slate.adobe.com)

The iPad storytelling app, Adobe Slate, is now available in a Web-based version, enabling users to create professional-quality content with text and photos on the desktop. No design or coding skills are required, and projects automatically sync between the computer and iPad. Slate is available with Creative Cloud or as a free app.

ALL READING PROGRAM
(www.tobiidynavox.com/allsoftware)

Tobii Dynavox released a new software version of their Accessible Literacy Learning (ALL) reading program. The evidence-based reading program is designed to teach those individuals who require AAC and have complex communication needs and physical access challenges to learn how to read. Available as an app for use on the iPad, Windows operating systems, and Tobii Dynavox communication devices, the ALL software edition gives teachers and parents a straightforward way to deliver proven literacy instruction. The program provides systematic instruction in seven different reading skills, while encouraging shared reading through an included library of engaging books. Tobii Dynavox ALL continuously tracks student progress and includes periodic skill review sessions, so teacher and parents always know where the student is in the process. Additionally, the software enables students to bypass oral responses at all stages of instruction, giving non-verbal students access to reading instruction.

BEELINE READER
(www.beelinereader.com)