October 15, 2024 8:00 am

Imagine Learning and Battelle for Kids Partner to Advance High-Quality Instruction and Durable Skills for Future-Ready Students

This partnership merges Battelle for Kids’ Portrait of a Graduate expertise with Imagine Learning’s HQIM to create future-focused, impactful classrooms.

Tempe, Arizona — October 15, 2024 — Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital-first PreK–12 solutions in the United States, and Battelle for Kids, a national education not-for-profit that supports educators to ensure every student is future-ready, have announced a strategic partnership to advance a reimagined vision for student success. This collaboration builds upon Battelle for Kids’ nationally recognized expertise in developing durable skills through its Portrait of a Graduate framework in alignment with Imagine Learning’s research-backed curricula. Together, the organizations will empower educators to create learning environments that establish a more impactful vision for success in K-12 education.

“This partnership is significant because we’ve been deeply involved in defining why schools need to change and what instructional transformation should look like. Imagine Learning helps us focus on the how,” said Mike Duncan, President & CEO of Battelle for Kids. “You can’t have the how without high-quality instructional materials. It’s about creating environments and processes that engage students in deeper learning every day.”

Building Capacity and Sparking Engagement

A recent Gallup survey found that fewer than two in 10 students strongly agree that what they are learning in class feels important, interesting, challenging, or aligned with their natural talents. (Gallup) With student engagement at an all-time low and increased demands on teachers, district leaders face mounting pressure to create a shared vision of what deeper learning looks like in practice by providing meaningful and motivating learning experiences that prepare students for bright futures.

Imagine Learning and Battelle for Kids are combining high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) with strategies that develop essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration to help schools design experiences that are both academically rigorous and deeply engaging. By integrating rigorous curricula with approaches that build both academic and durable skills, the partnership aims to deliver a more holistic definition of student success and equip learners with the competencies needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Building a Unified Vision for Student Success

Imagine Learning and Battelle for Kids will conduct joint research and develop resources to equip districts and school leaders to create impactful educational experiences. By offering actionable insights and tools, the collaboration will support the integration of high-quality instructional materials with strategies that build durable skills. “Our shared goal is to help districts create a more comprehensive definition of student success,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chairman & Chief Strategy Officer for Imagine Learning. “By leveraging the strengths of both organizations, we can activate and scale Portrait of a Graduate. With Battelle for Kids, we’re providing a vision and models for what education can and should look like.”

Engaging the Education Community

The upcoming 2024 Battelle for Kids Annual Event, taking place next week in Indianapolis (October 21–23), will provide an opportunity to explore these critical topics further. “We’ll be seeing over 500 educational leaders at our Annual Event, and we know this topic will be of great importance to them,” added Duncan. “We’re excited to continue the conversation and explore how we can support districts to make this vision a reality.”

About Imagine Learning

Every classroom, every student is bursting with potential. That’s why we pursue relentless innovation at the intersection of technology, people, and curricula. Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions, working alongside teachers to support 18 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Imagine IM, Imagine Learning EL Education, Traverse, and Twig^® Science. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with personalized instruction for English and Spanish literacy, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity^® and Imagine EdgeEX^® offer innovative courseware solutions, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more: imaginelearning.com.

About Battelle for Kids

Battelle for Kids (BFK) is a national, not-for-profit organization helping to empower educators so that every student has hope, resilience, and the knowledge and skills to be future-ready. BFK has helped hundreds of school districts and state agencies design, launch, and bring their shared community visions — the Portrait of a Graduate — to life, impacting the learning experiences of millions of students nationwide. For more information, visit bfk.org.

September 30, 2024 9:00 am

Imagine Learning Foundation Surpasses $1 Million in Giving, Expands Support for Vulnerable Youth

The Imagine Learning Foundation (ILF), the philanthropic initiative funded by Imagine Learning, the nation’s largest provider of digital-first curriculum solutions, today announced $500,000 in Signature Grant awards to seven organizations dedicated to supporting student well-being beyond the classroom.

Tempe, Arizona — September 30, 2024 – The Imagine Learning Foundation (ILF), the philanthropic initiative funded by Imagine Learning, the nation’s largest provider of digital-first curriculum solutions, today announced $500,000 in Signature Grant awards to seven organizations dedicated to supporting student well-being beyond the classroom. This year’s grant allocation reflects a 25% increase over last year, further emphasizing ILF’s commitment to tackling youth homelessness and chronic absenteeism, two of the most critical issues facing students today.

Since its launch in 2021, ILF has awarded over $1.2 million through 29 grants as part of its initial $5 million funding commitment. The recipient organizations have positively impacted more than 413,000 students in 1,700 communities across the U.S., addressing issues from homelessness to mental health.

“Since the inception of the Imagine Learning Foundation, we have always been dedicated to supporting learners beyond the classroom,” said Jonathan Grayer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Imagine Learning. “This year, we placed a stronger emphasis on supporting organizations committed to addressing the growing crisis of youth homelessness and chronic absenteeism—issues that directly affect a student’s success and have lasting impacts on their learning and well-being. Together with our Signature Grant recipients, we are dedicated to ensuring that every student has the support and stability necessary to overcome these challenges and reach their full potential.”

Targeting Key Areas of Student Support

Two-thirds of K-12 students attended a school where at least 20% of the student body was chronically absent, creating a crisis for these students, especially in math and reading. Additionally, there are over 1.2 million students experiencing homelessness putting them at greater academic and graduation risks than their peers. To meet this growing crisis, the 2024 Signature Grants were awarded to organizations working in one of four key giving areas: basic needs support, wraparound services for students and families experiencing homelessness, mental health support, and research to address chronic absenteeism.

2024 Signature Award Winners

Catie’s Closet, founded in 2010, is a New England-based nonprofit dedicated to providing children with access to the clothing and basic necessities children need so they can thrive in school and in life. ILF is awarding Catie’s Closet a $100,000 grant to subsidize the cost of supplies, fund emergency support needs, expand its order request system, and ultimately impact over 3,500 youth throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Giving the Basics (GTB), founded in 2011, is a Kansas-based nonprofit dedicated to bringing improved health, hope, and dignity to struggling children and adults through the procurement, fulfillment, and distribution of personal hygiene products. ILF is awarding GTB with a $50,000 grant to fund warehouse distribution center costs and subsidize supply procurement to help fight the negative effect of poverty on student hygiene for over 200,000 students throughout Kansas.
Our House, founded in 1988, is an Atlanta, Georgia-based nonprofit dedicated to providing transformative care to end the cycle of homelessness for families and children. ILF is awarding Our House with a $100,000 grant to provide health care, family advocacy services, case management support, and housing support for over 650 students in the greater Atlanta area.
UpSpring, founded in 1998, is an Ohio-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering children experiencing homelessness by providing opportunities through education and enrichment. ILF is awarding UpSpring a $50,000 grant to provide year-round services, including after-school programming, summer day-camp, and an on-demand resource center stocked with supplies servicing over 415 students within Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky.
SchoolHouse Connection (SHC), founded in 2016, is a national nonprofit organization working to overcome homelessness through education. ILF has awarded SHC with a $100,000 grant to fully fund the first-ever national initiative between SHC and Attendance Works (AW) to research best practices for improving attendance of students experiencing homelessness. The initiative includes a research study, case studies, webinars, training, and a 2025 attendance awareness campaign to ultimately support students nationwide.

Returning Grant Recipients

Our Minds Matter (OMM), founded in 2012, is a Virginia-based national nonprofit dedicated to fostering a student-led movement working towards a day when no teen dies by suicide, and where all teens have access to the mental health resources they need to become their best selves. Originally awarded a $100,000 grant in 2023, ILF is renewing its commitment to OMM with an additional $50,000 this year to expand the reach of existing clubs that currently have over 3,000 student members nationwide, fund campaign support, community events, and a new, accessible website design.
Erika’s Lighthouse, founded in 2004, is an Illinois-based national nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and educating youth, their families, and the community about adolescent depression while breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Originally awarded a $100,000 inaugural grant in 2022, and a second $50,000 grant in 2023, ILF is renewing its commitment to Erika’s Lighthouse with an additional $50,000 this year to fund national campaigns, create a new data center, and help provide recognition to model schools for the betterment of over 120,000 students nationwide.

“The 2024 grant cycle marks a significant milestone for the Imagine Learning Foundation, pushing us beyond the million-dollar mark in funding, and extending our reach to students in every state across the nation,” said Chris Graham, Chairman and President of the Imagine Learning Foundation. “We are proud to partner with so many impactful organizations and focus this year on the pressing problems of student homelessness and chronic absenteeism. We are confident that together the Imagine Learning Foundation and our partners will continue to drive positive impact and create brighter futures for countless students nationwide.”

Grassroots Grants

In addition to the Signature Grants, ILF awards Grassroots Grants to employee-recommended regional organizations that focus on learner well-being within Imagine Learning employees’ local communities. Two recent Grassroots Grants, awarded to Sleep In Heavenly Peace and Homeless Youth Connection, were announced earlier this month in celebration of Imagine Learning’s new headquarters opening in Tempe, Arizona.

For more information about the Imagine Learning Foundation and the 2024 Signature Grant awardees, visit imaginelearningfoundation.org.

About Imagine Learning Foundation

Imagine Learning Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on fostering the well-being of learners and the people who support them at home and in their communities. Established in 2021, the Imagine Learning Foundation funds a variety of grants to mission-aligned national non-profit organizations that support initiatives to foster well-being of youth, families, and educators with an emphasis on accelerating student achievement. Imagine Learning Foundation is the philanthropic initiative of Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S. Additional information is available at imaginelearningfoundation.org.

September 23, 2024 9:00 am

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Partners with Imagine Learning to Strengthen Math Proficiency in Grades 4 and 8

Tempe, Arizona – September 23, 2024 – The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) recently announced its partnership with leading K–12 digital curriculum provider Imagine Learning to implement the Small Group Targeted Instruction (SGTI) service, which delivers high-dosage tutoring to small groups of students in all the core subjects. This statewide initiative will provide math tutoring throughout the 2024–2025 school year for over 3,000 students in grades 4 and 8, addressing critical needs in math proficiency and preparing students for success in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS).

A Statewide Commitment to Academic Excellence

Through this partnership, DESE reaffirms its commitment to enhancing student achievement in math by leveraging Imagine Learning’s SGTI service. Starting on September 16, 2024, certified intervention specialists will deliver personalized math instruction to small groups in 30-minute online sessions, three times per week, supplementing regular math classes. By focusing on grades 4 and 8, this data-driven program aims to prepare students for pivotal standardized tests and build a strong foundation for their future academic success.

“We’re thrilled to work with Imagine Learning and believe their SGTI program will have a great impact for our students,” said Dr. Fabrice Kandjanga of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). “By focusing on personalized, high dosage instruction, we can work to close the math proficiency gap better and set our students on a path to long-term success.”

Why Imagine Learning?

Imagine Learning’s SGTI service was chosen for its proven track record in delivering high-impact educational interventions. With certified intervention specialists driving the program, Imagine Learning’s SGTI service ensures that every student receives the personalized attention needed to overcome math challenges. Delivered through a secure online platform, the program is designed to be accessible to all students, regardless of location or background, in an effort to bridge the gap in equitable access to learning.

“We’re proud to bring our highly regarded SGTI program to Massachusetts, where it will make a direct impact on student learning outcomes,” said Kinsey Rawe, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Imagine Learning. “By strengthening students’ math skills and proficiency with high dosage tutoring, we’re giving students the tools they need to achieve long-term success in their academic careers and beyond.”

The Impact on Massachusetts Students

This Massachusetts initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of unfinished learning in math. By equipping students with the skills to excel in math, the program will play a crucial role in helping them achieve success on the MCAS and in their future academic pursuits.

For more information on how Imagine Learning’s intervention service supports students in core subjects, English language development, and test prep, please visit Imagine Learning SGTI.

About the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is committed to ensuring that every student in the Commonwealth receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in school and beyond. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and a focus on equity, DESE works to support educators, students, and families across the state.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning is a leading provider of K–12 digital education solutions, working alongside teachers to support over 18 million students nationwide. With a comprehensive portfolio of core curriculum, supplemental programs, innovative courseware, and school services, Imagine Learning is committed to helping students achieve their full potential.

September 5, 2024 9:15 am

Imagine Learning Expands Product Portfolio and Introduces Significant Enhancements Across Its Products and Services

Expanding Opportunity and Access for Learners, Empowering Teachers with Innovative AI Tools

Tempe, Arizona — September 5, 2024 — As the 2024–2025 academic year begins, Imagine Learning announces new products and services, along with extensive updates across its comprehensive portfolio. In response to the evolving needs of K–12 students and educators, Imagine Learning has broadened its curriculum offerings, enhanced existing products, and delivered more flexible learning options. With a focus on expanding opportunity and access for learners, while making teachers’ lives easier by leveraging innovative AI tools, Imagine Learning continues to set a new standard in today’s classrooms.

Expanding High-Quality Core Curriculum Solutions to Prepare Future-Ready Students

Imagine Learning’s growing portfolio of core curriculum solutions brings learning to life through research-backed pedagogy and seamless, time-saving supports for teachers as they prepare students for an increasingly complex world. As a premium Certified Partner of Illustrative Mathematics, the leading problem-based K–12 mathematics curriculum, Imagine IM for grades K–8 debuted in classrooms this fall. The high-quality solution offers the new IM v. 360 edition enhanced for engagement, accessibility, and usability. The comprehensive instructional resource meets the challenge of giving every learner equitable access to grade-level mathematics. Imagine IM traditional and integrated high school courses will be available for fall 2025 implementation.

Pairing dynamic media with inquiry-based learning, Traverse® is a groundbreaking, digital-first social studies curriculum for grades 6–12. The program empowers teachers to meet the required content and instructional standards while developing critical thinking and civic engagement for students. The first courses in the series are already in classrooms, with additional courses coming for 2025. To coincide with the election season, access to selected lessons on voting, the suffrage movement, and more topics are available through Traverse Explorer, a free resource for social studies educators.

Enhanced Supplemental & Intervention Programs for Improved Student Outcomes

Helping every student achieve academic success remains a challenge nationwide. Imagine Language & Literacy, which leverages AI to save teachers planning time, now includes the new Fluent Reader Plus tool to further enhance reading fluency and comprehension. Additional books and lessons in Imagine Language & Literacy, along with formative assessment tools in Imagine MyPath and Imagine Math, support learning recovery in reading and math. With a growing number of English Language Learners (ELLs) in classrooms, these programs are specifically tailored to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Strengthening Special Education with Targeted Solutions

To better support students with unique learning challenges, Imagine Learning has expanded its offerings to support students with special needs. The Imagine Sonday System now includes updated strategies and tools to improve literacy outcomes, and the Exceptional Student Course Suite has grown to 24 courses, providing personalized instruction for a wide range of learning disabilities. Additionally, Imagine Learning’s Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) services now include integrated teletherapy, making essential communication support more accessible to students.

Introducing Imagine EdgeEX: A Flexible Solution for Digital Learning

Imagine Learning is proud to introduce Imagine EdgeEX, a versatile digital learning solution designed to meet the diverse needs of schools and districts, offering online courses for initial credit, virtual schools, or hybrid programs. Imagine EdgeEX features the Grading Assistant tool, which leverages AI to streamline grading for short writing activities, and enhanced course customization options that allow educators to tailor content delivery to student needs. This new product equips educators with the tools to deliver adaptable, high-quality instruction in any learning environment.

Enhancing School Services to Support Diverse Learning Needs

Imagine Learning has broadened its School Services to better meet the varied needs of K–12 schools. Imagine Learning’s Small Group Targeted Instruction (SGTI) program is an affordable way to address the many learners who need extra support, providing flexible scheduling and reporting tools to enable precise, data-driven instruction. Expanded Instructional Services provide greater access to certified K–12 teachers and new virtual tutoring options, delivering on-demand support when students need it most. With advanced data analytics integrated across Imagine Learning’s solutions, educators are empowered to make informed decisions that continually improve student outcomes.

“At Imagine Learning, we’re committed to creating solutions that empower educators and inspire students. These updates are about providing the tools and flexibility needed to meet each learner where they are and helping them achieve success. It’s not just about keeping up with change—it’s about leading the way in making education more effective,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chairman & Chief Strategy Officer of Imagine Learning.

Discover how Imagine Learning’s comprehensive solutions can empower your classroom by visiting imaginelearning.com.

About Imagine Learning

Every classroom, every student is bursting with potential. That’s why we pursue relentless innovation at the intersection of technology, people, and curricula. Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions, working alongside teachers to support 18 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Imagine IM, Imagine Learning EL Education, Twig^® Science, and Traverse. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with personalized instruction for English and Spanish literacy, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity^® and Imagine EdgeEX offer innovative courseware solutions, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more: imaginelearning.com.

July 30, 2024 6:15 am

Imagine Learning Launches Enhanced Sonday System With Science of Reading Support

Empowering Educators with Effective Tools for Every Student’s Success

Tempe, Arizona, July 30, 2024 – Imagine Learning, a leader in digital-first educational solutions, proudly announces the enhancements to the market-leading Imagine Sonday System. This powerful, multisensory reading program, based on the Orton-Gillingham approach, is designed to meet the diverse needs of students in special education, struggling readers, and students learning to read, ensuring every learner receives the support they need to succeed.

Innovative Enhancements to Support More Learners

The enhanced Imagine Sonday System builds on the structured, systematic, and multisensory teaching methods already proven effective and augments them with explicit instructional support grounded in the science of reading. Educators can implement comprehensive lesson plans with minimal preparation, now pairing them with science of reading-aligned warm-ups and cool-downs. This ensures the most effective, research-based reading instruction. The program offers vital tools to immediately identify and support struggling readers as early as PreK.

“The Imagine Sonday System has already empowered countless educators to tackle reading challenges effectively, ensuring student success,” said Eric Smith, General Manager of Imagine Learning Sonday System. “By integrating the latest science of reading research, our updated system provides a robust and effective solution for educators, from kindergarten through advanced levels.”

Addressing Students with Special Needs

The number of students in special education programs has significantly increased over the past decades, highlighting the urgent need for effective interventions aligned with the latest science of reading research. The Imagine Sonday System offers a comprehensive solution of Tier 1 support and Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions, which improve reading skills and help students transition out of special education when appropriate. Additionally, robust data collection and progress monitoring help meet stringent oversight and compliance requirements.

Tackling Teacher Shortages

Imagine Sonday System addresses the pressing issue of teacher shortages, particularly in special education. The straightforward implementation process allows both veteran educators and those with little to no experience teaching reading to deliver high-quality instruction, alleviating some of the staffing pressures faced by schools. Paraprofessionals can also effectively implement the system, broadening the range of educators who can support students. Imagine Learning offers additional teaching support with Small Group Targeted Instruction, ensuring effective delivery of interventions and comprehensive support for both educators and students.

Key Benefits of the Enhanced Imagine Sonday System

Ease of Use: Streamlined, six-step lesson plans ensure that educators can quickly implement the program with minimal training.
Efficiency: Designed for rapid deployment; teachers are prepared to deliver high-quality lessons after just one training day. The intervention-focused lesson plans are pre-written, include all materials for delivery, and are designed to be only 35 minutes in length.
Accessibility: Available in both digital and print formats, this inclusive solution ensures that a wide range of educators, from seasoned professionals to volunteers, can access and utilize the resources effectively.
Support: Continuous access to expert advice and support ensures sustained success and effective implementation.

To learn more about how Imagine Learning is driving equitable success for students with disabilities, visit Imagine Sonday System.

About Imagine Learning

Every classroom, every student is bursting with potential. That’s why we pursue relentless innovation at the intersection of technology, people, and curricula. Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions, working alongside teachers to support 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Imagine IM, Imagine Learning EL Education, Twig^® Science, and Traverse^®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with personalized instruction for English and Spanish literacy, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity^® and Imagine EdgeEX offer innovative courseware solutions, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more: imaginelearning.com.

July 16, 2024 6:30 am

Imagine Learning Introduces AI Grading Assistant for Writing in Imagine EdgeEX

Leading K–12 Curriculum Solutions Provider Uses AI to Empower Teachers and Enhance Education

Tempe, Arizona, July 16, 2024 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving 15 million students in more than half the school districts nationwide, today announced a newly developed AI tool within the Imagine EdgeEX curriculum offering, available in beta to all current customers. Imagine EdgeEX is the next generation of Imagine Edgenuity, designed to engage students and to help teachers streamline their work with actionable data and easy-to-use, customizable tools, an easy-to-navigate dashboard, and accessible features.

Imagine EdgeEX’s new AI Grading Assistant for writing provides teachers with actionable, context-specific feedback on submitted writing activities. The feature evaluates student writing, providing suggestions on clarity of thought, alignment to the learning objective, quality of writing, and more. This innovation saves educators time and significantly scales their impact, allowing them to devote more time to meaningful interactions with students. This tool will soon be complemented by additional AI-powered tools to help learners and teachers work more effectively and efficiently. Amid the shifts in education with the advent of generative AI, ongoing teacher shortages, and hurdles those in the profession face daily, there is a critical need to make teachers’ lives easier.

“At Imagine Learning, our priority has always been to create innovative, digital-first solutions that enhance the classroom experience for teachers and learners,” said Kinsey Rawe, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Imagine Learning. “Teachers are under so much pressure in today’s educational landscape. In a time where turnover and shortages continue to plague districts across the nation, we’re proud to launch Imagine EdgeEX’s first AI tool to not only lighten their workloads but also provide them with the support and empowerment they need.”

“When we set out to bring the power of generative AI to Imagine EdgeEX, protecting our customers’ data and privacy had to be our top priority. That’s why we intentionally designed our short-writing feedback with a privacy-first architecture, minimizing the data collected and shared, ensuring that our AI partners cannot use students’ submissions to train their models. Our customers can enjoy the personalized, intelligent experiences enabled by AI while having peace of mind that their data is fully protected and used only in accordance with our strict privacy policies,” said Jason Fournier, Vice President of AI Initiatives at Imagine Learning.

The new AI tool keeps the teacher in control while keeping security and privacy at its core. Teachers have the freedom to use, modify, or ignore the AI-suggested comments at their discretion. Another important goal was to make it convenient, so the tool is integrated into teachers’ feedback workflow within Imagine EdgeEX. Teachers can quickly choose, edit, or discard feedback without copying and pasting or moving between systems.

Along with Imagine Learning’s previously announced AI enhancements like the AI-tutoring assistant within Imagine Learning Sessions and the acquisition of Cue Think, this latest development reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to integrating AI into the education experience to enhance personalized learning and educator support.

To learn more about Imagine EdgeEX’s new AI feature and offerings for teachers, visit imaginelearning.com/edgeEX-ai.

About Imagine Learning

Every classroom, every student is bursting with potential. That’s why we pursue relentless innovation at the intersection of technology, people, and curricula. Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions, working alongside teachers to support 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Imagine IM, Imagine Learning EL Education, Twig^® Science, and Traverse^®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with personalized instruction for English and Spanish literacy, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity^® and Imagine EdgeEX offer innovative courseware solutions, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more: imaginelearning.com.

June 28, 2024 6:30 am

School District of Philadelphia Advances Literacy with Science of Reading Focus

SDP Hosts Summer Institute with Support from Imagine Learning to Equip Educators with Innovative Literacy Training and Resources

Philadelphia, PA – June 27, 2024 – The School District of Philadelphia (SDP) recently hosted an innovative, in-person educator training focused on the implementation of high-quality instructional materials and practices aligned with science of reading research. This four-day Summer Institute, held from June 24–27, equipped over 800 educators and administrators with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance literacy instruction in the upcoming school year.

Importance of the Event

This training event marked a significant step in the District’s commitment to improving literacy outcomes and ensuring all students have access to high-quality learning experiences. By equipping educators to use the science of reading principles with Imagine Learning EL Education, the District aims to transform literacy instruction. The Summer Institute provided educators with in-depth training on evidence-based practices crucial for helping students develop strong literacy skills. This approach supports personalized learning and promotes equitable access to educational resources, addressing current challenges and ensuring all students can thrive academically.

“Embracing the science of reading is a testament to our commitment to accelerating our students’ academic achievement,” said Tony B. Watlington Sr. Ed.D., Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia. “The School District of Philadelphia had the second-fastest recovery for reading in grades three through eight among all large urban peer districts included in the Education Recovery Scorecard released by the Harvard University Center for Education Policy Research and The Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford University. We are excited to continue leading the way in literacy education and empowering our educators to transform their classrooms with this Summer Institute.”

Event Details:

The Summer Institute offered educators hands-on training, interactive sessions, and opportunities to explore and implement science of reading principles in their classrooms. Keynote speakers Nicole Ormandy, Senior Director of Content Development at AIM Institute for Learning and Research, and Dr. Megan Gierka, Senior Content Developer at AIM Institute for Learning and Research, highlighted best practices, leveraging their expertise and insights.

District educators examined the structure and design of Imagine Learning EL Education, gained insights into year-long planning, and learned effective strategies to engage students and enhance their literacy skills. Participants built their understanding and application of effective literacy practices to support students as they learn to read and, ultimately, read to learn.

“Imagine Learning is proud to support the School District of Philadelphia in this transformative initiative,” said Terry Gilligan, Senior Vice President & General Manager of Core Curriculum at Imagine Learning. “Our role is to provide the necessary tools and resources along with strategic professional learning to ensure educators can effectively implement the science of reading and foster a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.”

The Summer Institute was a significant milestone in SDP’s ongoing efforts to enhance teaching and learning through innovative educational solutions.

Main Takeaways:

The Summer Institute emphasized the critical role of evidence-based practices in literacy instruction, equipping educators with strategies to enhance phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
This initiative was deeply personal for the leaders and teachers at the School District of Philadelphia. Participants expressed a strong commitment to creating better futures for SDP students, recognizing that it all starts with teaching every student to read proficiently.
The overarching goal is clear: to ensure that every student in the district achieves reading proficiency. SDP’s excellent educators are dedicated to pursuing this ambitious endeavor, supported by the high-quality curricular materials and practices provided by Imagine Learning EL Education.

For the full agenda or additional information, please contact:

Aileen McNelis

NextTech Communications

Amcnelis@nexttechcomms.com

About the School District of Philadelphia

The School District of Philadelphia is the eighth-largest school district in the nation and the largest school district in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Enrollment includes nearly 198,000 students in public, charter, and alternative schools, and approximately 19,000 employees. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr., the School District’s vision is to prepare students to imagine and realize any future they desire. For more information about the School District, visit www.philasd.org.

About Imagine Learning

Every classroom, every student is bursting with potential. That’s why we pursue relentless innovation at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology. Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions working alongside educators to support 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Imagine IM, Imagine Learning EL Education, Twig^® Science, and Traverse^®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with personalized instruction for English and Spanish literacy, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity^® is our flagship courseware solution, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more at imaginelearning.com.

June 20, 2024 9:00 am

Imagine MyPath Awarded Evidence-Based Edtech: ESSA Tier 3 Product Certification

Product Certification Ratifies Evidence of Effectiveness

TEMPE, Arizona. – June 20, 2024 – Imagine Learning announced today that Imagine MyPath^®, its diagnostic-driven, personalized learning program for grades K–12, has earned the Evidence-Based Edtech: ESSA Tier 3 product certification from Digital Promise. This product certification serves as a rigorous, reliable signal for district and school leaders, educators, and families looking for education technology (edtech) products with a confirmed basis in research about learning and evidence from a well-designed study that shows the product has positively impacted learners. Imagine MyPath is one of only three products to receive product certification in this brand-new category from Digital Promise.

After review, Digital Promise confirmed that a well-designed study submitted by Imagine Learning qualified as Tier 3 ESSA evidence by demonstrating a significant, positive impact on student outcomes. The study found that kindergarten students who used Imagine MyPath outperformed comparison students on the NWEA MAP Growth math assessment. These results add to the portfolio of research demonstrating that Imagine MyPath positively impacts student learning. Read the full study.

“Receiving the ESSA Tier 3 certification is an honor and a testament to Imagine Learning’s ongoing commitment to high-quality evidence-based research in the interest of continuous improvement and innovation that supports improved outcomes for learners,” said Sarah Anderson, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Supplemental. “Our goal is not just to address learning gaps, but to empower educators and students with the tools they need to exceed their growth expectations.”

Digital Promise launched the Evidence-Based Edtech product certification in April 2024 to help educators identify rigorous, research-based products before introducing them into the classroom. “At Digital Promise, we are excited to support educational leaders in using evidence to inform their selection of edtech systems and tools,” said Dr. Pati Ruiz, Senior Director of Edtech and Emerging Technologies at Digital Promise. “These Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)-aligned product certifications will help educational leaders easily identify edtech products that leverage evidence-building activities to meet the needs of teachers, students, and their families.”

Today’s teachers are tasked with helping diverse learners keep pace with learning goals. Imagine MyPath offers efficient, effective intervention support that empowers teachers and saves them time in differentiating and delivering instruction that accelerates students back to grade level. Imagine MyPath’s assessment-informed personalized learning paths engage students and move them forward, faster, through prioritizing essential content and delivering adaptive lessons at a developmentally appropriate level. For Back-to-School 2024, Imagine MyPath Math will further enhance personalized support by adding On-Demand Tutoring, where students can access real-time, one-on-one guidance from live teachers.

Imagine Learning is seeking district partners interested in experiencing the impact of Imagine MyPath by participating in a research study during the 2024–2025 school year. Learn more and sign up at https://www.imaginelearning.com/research-partner/mypath/.

About Imagine Learning

About Digital Promise

Digital Promise is a nonprofit organization that builds powerful networks and takes on grand challenges by working at the intersection of researchers, entrepreneurs, and educators. Our vision is that all people, at every stage of their lives, have access to learning experiences that help them acquire the knowledge and skills they need to thrive and continuously learn in an ever-changing world. For more information, visit the Digital Promise website and follow @digitalpromise for updates

June 13, 2024 10:27 am

New Survey: According to Teachers, AI Usage Has Surged Since the Start of the School Year

Half of teachers report an increase in the use of AI and continue to seek professional learning and guidelines around implementation

TEMPE, Ariz., June 13, 2024 — Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving 15 million students in more than half the school districts nationwide, today released findings from its update, “The 2024 Educator AI Report: Perceptions, Practices, and Potential,” providing insight into how teachers’ perceptions of AI use in the classroom have evolved since the start of the 2023–24 school year.

Key findings show that 50% of educators reported an increase in AI usage, by both students and teachers, over the 2023–24 school year. When specifically asked about generative AI tools, participants reported an 18% increase in use since first reported in September 2023. This rapid adoption highlights the significant role AI plays in today’s classrooms.

Despite these advancements, 33% of educators remain dissatisfied with the current level of AI implementation, citing insufficient training, exposure, and lack of clear policies or guidelines. Schools must continue to prioritize effective AI implementation to fully realize its potential to enhance educational outcomes.

“Imagine Learning is dedicated to solving real problems for educators by integrating AI to reduce teachers’ workloads, which will enable them to focus more on direct student engagement,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer of Imagine Learning. “Our commitment to creating collaboratively with our education partners ensures that AI tools are practical and supportive, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes and providing timely feedback to students.”

Other key findings from Imagine Learning’s report include:

AI’s Positive Impact: 55% of participants agree that generative AI will have a positive impact in the classroom. Expectations for accessibility have also remained consistent, with 88% believing that generative AI can positively impact accessibility.
Teacher Resources: 84% view training sessions, which include practical applications and ethical use of AI, as the most valuable tool to support generative AI implementation. However, only 28% believe they have the resources they need to address potential implementation issues of generative AI — a drop from 33% in the fall.
Popular Generative AI Use Cases: Participants see generative AI being used most often for analyzing student data (68%), creating instructional material (67%), and grading (65%). Currently, teachers have the most experience using tools for language processing (38%) and automatic grading (38%).
Top AI Concerns: When compared to September 2023 results, participants expressed increased concern with cheating (84% versus 72%) and misinterpretation of results (69% versus 54%). Seventy-four percent are also worried about the potential negative impact on students’ writing abilities.

“The survey highlights how quickly AI is becoming a significant influence in today’s classrooms,” said Jason Fournier, Vice President of Product Management for AI Initiatives at Imagine Learning. “We are focused on deeply integrating AI into our products and tools to meet educators’ needs, ensuring each student benefits from personalized, effective learning experiences. By addressing these challenges, we aim to provide enriched educational opportunities to every student.”

Download the full report to see more of what teachers say about AI’s role in the classroom. For comparison, you can find the previous iteration of the report from September 2023 here.

Methodology

The survey consisted of responses from 157 K–12 educators who work in districts across the U.S. Imagine Learning conducted the survey from April 24–May 6, 2024, through an online quantitative survey that was approximately seven minutes in length. 68% of respondents were teachers, 11% were school administrators, and 9% were support staff.

About Imagine Learning

Every classroom, every student is bursting with potential. That’s why we pursue relentless innovation at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology. Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions, working alongside educators to support 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Imagine IM, Imagine Learning EL Education, Twig ® Science, and Traverse®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with personalized instruction for English and Spanish literacy, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity® is our flagship courseware solution, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more at imaginelearning.com.

June 6, 2024 11:45 am

Imagine Learning Wins “Overall STEM Education Solution of the Year” in 6th Annual EdTech Breakthrough Awards Program

International Awards Program Recognizes Outstanding Educational Technology Products and Companies

Tempe, Arizona – June 6, 2024 – Imagine Learning, the largest national provider of digital curriculum solutions, serving over 15 million students and one million educators, today announced that its STEM Supplemental Suite has been selected as winner of the “Overall STEM Education Solution of the Year” award in the 6^th annual EdTech Breakthrough Awards program conducted by EdTech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence organization that recognizes the top companies and solutions in the global educational technology market.

Imagine Learning’s STEM Supplemental Suite gives students a head start on college and career readiness with the 4Cs of STEM: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.

With resources for both online and offline learning, spanning all grade levels and the four STEM domains, the programs support a variety of implementation models to fit every district’s unique needs. Educators can build a customized program to provide equitable access to STEM learning.

“We work closely with educators to meet the needs of today’s busy classrooms, and our dynamic STEM Supplemental Suite was designed to deliver a symphony of innovation and impact by celebrating STEM skills and life skills to equip students for success today, tomorrow, and beyond,” said Sarah Anderson, Senior Vice President & General Manager of Supplemental for Imagine Learning. “This award from EdTech Breakthrough validates our collection of rigorous, engaging, and culturally relevant STEM curricula meant to challenge students and empower them with the support they need to develop high-value 21st-century skills.”

Imagine Learning’s STEM Supplemental Suite includes five programs — Imagine Science Corner™, Imagine Robotify^®, Imagine MyPath^®, Imagine Math^®, and Imagine Math Facts^®. These unique, engaging programs help students strengthen and develop science, computer science, and math skills and learning.

“The impact of Imagine Learning’s approach to teaching and learning STEM is undeniable. The U.S. STEM workforce has contributed to improvements in living standards, economic prosperity, and global competitiveness. STEM education is fundamental to preparing the next generation of skilled workers that can effectively utilize technology in global applications,” said Steve Johansson, managing director, EdTech Breakthrough. “Our ‘Overall STEM Education Solution of the Year’ is Imagine Learning’s Supplemental STEM Suite which instills a love for learning that transcends textbooks and tests, preparing students not just for exams, but for a future brimming with possibility.”

The mission of the EdTech Breakthrough Awards is to honor excellence and recognize the innovation, hard work and success in a range of educational technology categories, including student engagement, adaptive learning, STEM education, career preparation, and many more. This year’s program attracted thousands of nominations from over 17 different countries throughout the world.

About Imagine Learning

About EdTech Breakthrough

Part of Tech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence and recognition platform for global technology innovation and leadership, the EdTech Breakthrough Awards program is devoted to honoring excellence in educational technology products, companies and people. The EdTech Breakthrough Awards recognize the achievements of breakthrough educational technology in categories including e-learning, student engagement, language learning, STEM, and more. For more information, visit EdTechBreakthrough.com.