December 6, 2023 6:15 am

Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics Study Receives Tier 2 ESSA Evidence Rating

Evidence for ESSA’s recent review of digital-forward core math solution shows high effectiveness for improving student outcomes

Scottsdale, Arizona, December 5, 2023 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., received a Tier 2 Moderate rating from Evidence for ESSA for a research study assessing students using the Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics (IM) curriculum. The study was designed to meet the qualifications of Tier 2 Moderate evidence of effectiveness as defined by the Every Student Succeed Act (ESSA) and demonstrates the significant impact that Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics has on mathematics learning outcomes.

An independent research evaluator studied 3,000 students in 149 classrooms across 16 elementary schools in a Missouri school district that implemented the Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics program during the 2022–2023 school year. The Galileo Comprehensive Assessment System (GCAS) and Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) were used to measure student achievement.

Effective from initial use, this first-year implementation yielded impressive results and highlights the impact of Imagine Learning Illustrative Math on the MAP assessment (effect size = +0.38), receiving a “Moderate” rating according to Evidence for ESSA. Subgroup analysis also revealed that special education and Free or Reduced Lunch Program students using Imagine Learning Illustrative Math outperformed their peers following the traditional curriculum on the MAP mathematics assessment from spring 2022 to spring 2023.

When surveyed about their perception of Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics, one teacher who took part in the study stated, “The dynamics that come from the problem solving, inquiry model and discussion supports has opened math thinking up for all learners. Students are gaining entry points to the learning, questioning peers for clarity or understanding, and showing me things I never would have thought about before. Trust in the depth and the challenge…the students will rise to it!”

“The positive results we’re seeing in districts with Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics is now validated by an independent evaluator and the efficacy rating from Evidence for ESSA,” adds Dr. Nari Carter, Senior Director of Research at Imagine Learning. “We are excited about the student outcomes associated with this rigorous research that meets ESSA evidence standards.”

Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics has received multiple favorable certifications from third-party resources, including an all-green rating for the three tiers from EdReports, another highly regarded independent nonprofit that reviews K–12 curricula for standards alignment, quality, and usability.

Evidence for ESSA’s evaluation of submitted educational research is processed with rigorous review “to provide clear and authoritative information on programs that meet the ESSA evidence standards and enable educators and communities to select effective educational tools to improve student success.” Congress passed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 as the federal law governing K–12 education. Within the bill are stipulations supporting the use of federal dollars on educational programs with evidence of effectiveness.

Imagine Learning prioritizes regular and rigorous research to ensure all Imagine Learning programs and services are built on the foundation of modern learning science principles and optimize student learning outcomes. Additional research will be conducted for Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics to further explore the factors that influence student success in the partner district in Missouri and in many more districts across the nation.

To read the full research study, click HERE.

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 fueled by insights from educators, working alongside educators to support 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science^®, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics^®, and Imagine Learning EL Education^®. 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: https://www.imaginelearning.com.

Preview the new Imagine IM program at https://www.imaginelearning.com/imagine-im/.

About Illustrative Mathematics

Illustrative Mathematics is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics. Imagine Learning is a premier digital partner of Illustrative Mathematics.

To learn more, visit https://illustrativemathematics.org/.

November 29, 2023 9:00 am

Imagine Learning Enhances STEM Education with Advanced Python Course in Imagine Robotify

Imagine Learning announces the launch of an innovative Python course in Imagine Robotify, designed for 8th graders.

Imagine Learning announces the launch of an innovative Python course in Imagine Robotify, designed for 8th graders. “Flex’s Rescue Training” course marks a significant step in enhancing STEM education within schools, offering an engaging and relevant learning experience for students. As computer science emerges as a mandatory component in high school curricula across eight states, Imagine Learning’s initiative is at the forefront of preparing students for future academic and career opportunities.

Elevating Coding Education in Schools

This advanced coding course is designed to align with CSTA standards and help set students on the path to fulfilling high school computer science graduation requirements. By merging Python programming with ecological problem-solving, students will experience a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach, enriching their STEM learning journey.

Advancing Equity in STEM

With a focus on inclusivity, the course aims to engage a broader spectrum of students, particularly girls who traditionally have lower participation rates in computer science. It strives to close the gender gap in STEM fields, offering equitable access to vital 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation.

Comprehensive and Accessible Learning Experience

Imagine Robotify breaks down barriers to computer science education with its browser-based platform, accessible on multiple devices without the need for costly hardware. Featuring over 900 coding challenges and interactive game-based learning, Imagine Robotify makes computer science both comprehensive and exhilarating for young learners.

Empowering Educators to Foster STEM Excellence

Recognizing the challenges educators face in teaching computer science, Imagine Robotify provides extensive resources and support, especially beneficial for those new to the field. The curriculum, aligned with the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) standards, ensures educators are well-equipped to deliver top-notch STEM instruction.

Nurturing the 4Cs of STEM in Students:

Critical Thinking: Tackling real-world ecological issues to sharpen analytical abilities.
Creativity: Fostering innovative solutions and resilience in learning.
Collaboration: Building teamwork skills, shared responsibilities, and decision-making.
Communication: Enhancing the ability to articulate ideas and grasp complex concepts.

“The launch of our advanced Python course in Imagine Robotify marks a significant milestone in our mission to make advanced STEM education accessible to all students” says Sarah Anderson, Vice President of Product Management, Supplemental at Imagine Learning. “We understand the importance of early exposure to coding and computational thinking in today’s digital age. Therefore, we’ve created a course that not only captivates young minds but also nurtures essential 21st-century skills. Our goal is to empower educators and inspire students, especially girls and those from diverse backgrounds, to explore the limitless possibilities in the world of technology.”

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 fueled by insights from educators, 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: imaginelearning.com.

November 27, 2023 6:00 am

Imagine Learning Appoints John Orsanic Chief Financial Officer

Orsanic Brings Decades of Experience with Complex Global Brands Strengthens Leadership Team for Next Phase of Growth

Scottsdale, Ariz., November 27, 2023 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of K–12 digital-first curriculum solutions in the United States, serving 15 million students in more than half of school districts nationwide, appointed John Orsanic as Chief Financial Officer, strengthening its executive leadership team for the next phase of rapid growth. Mr. Orsanic joins Imagine Learning after serving the last six years as the Chief Financial Officer of Fandango, a division of NBCUniversal, where he was responsible for a wide range of financial management and strategic growth initiatives, both domestically and internationally. He brings more than 25 years of experience in senior finance positions, working at iHeartMedia + Entertainment, Ceridian Corporation, and General Electric.

“We are excited to welcome John to our leadership team. With his experience as a financial executive in large and complex businesses, he will play a critical role in driving our business forward, through organic innovation and strategic M&A,” stated Jonathan Grayer, Chief Executive Officer of Imagine Learning. “Our business has never been more exciting as we work with educators to deliver on our promise to empower potential in classrooms across the US.”

The hiring of Mr. Orsanic comes at a transformative time for Imagine Learning. An emerging leader in the core curriculum market, the company recently launched Traverse, a groundbreaking digital-first core social studies solution for grades 6–12. Created by a team of Imagine Learning developers and educators, Traverse represents a significant milestone for the organization as it expands its comprehensive suite of immersive digital core curriculum courses for teachers and students across the country. In August, Imagine Learning unveiled Imagine Learning Ventures, a venture fund to make investments in promising A.I.-powered K–12 educational solutions.

“I’m thrilled to join Imagine Learning at such a pivotal point in the industry and for the business, with investments in A.I. and digital-first curriculum, which have the potential to transform teaching and learning,” said Mr. Orsanic. “Empowering educators with world-class digital solutions can personalize instruction and improve learning outcomes for every student.”

Mr. Orsanic received his B.S. from John Carroll University and his MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

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 fueled by insights from educators, working alongside educators to support 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science®, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics®, and Imagine Learning EL Education®. 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: https://www.imaginelearning.com.

October 25, 2023 11:09 am

Report Finds that 90% of Educators See AI as a Beacon for More Accessible Education

Despite low levels of preparedness and other barriers to adoption , there is a prevailing belief in Generative AI’s potential to empower educators and learners alike

Scottsdale, Arizona, October 25, 2023 – 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 its inaugural report, “The 2023 Educator AI Report: Perceptions, Practices, and Potential,” showcasing a comprehensive exploration of AI’s current and future role in K–12 classrooms.

With Generative AI emerging as a pivotal element in the dynamic educational landscape of 2023, Imagine Learning conducted the survey to explore the perceptions, current practices, and future aspirations of educators who have already embraced technology in the classroom.

One compelling finding coming out of the report is that a resounding 90% of educators surveyed believe that AI has the potential to make education more accessible. Increasingly, teachers are recognizing that when implemented ethically and with thoughtful consideration, AI can help students with special needs, learning disabilities, and language barriers, for example, and experience more effective, personalized learning methods.

When it comes to readiness, however, only 15% of educators feel “prepared” or “very prepared” to oversee the use of Generative AI in the classroom, with over twice that number (32%) expressing they are completely unprepared to do so. What’s more, educators indicate a disparity when it comes to the likelihood of using Generative AI in the classroom, with district and school leaders perceived as less likely to embrace new AI tools when compared to educators and students.

On top of this, only one-third (33%) of surveyed educators feel that they have the support they need from their district and school leadership to successfully implement Generative AI into their teaching.

Other key findings from Imagine Learning’s report include:

Almost half of educators (44%) who have used Generative AI believe that its use has alleviated the burden of their workload and made their jobs easier.
Of the respondents who reported they have not used AI in the classroom, 65% cite a lack of familiarity as the primary obstacle to the future utilization of Generative AI, with 48% also expressing ethical concerns.
72% of educators are most concerned about plagiarism and cheating due to Generative AI, highlighting the need for clear guidelines for students for using AI with academic integrity.

“Generative AI is a blend of promise and prudence. Its transformative potential is undeniable, but the journey forward requires thoughtful consideration,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer, of Imagine Learning. “Learning is above all a human endeavor. With Generative AI as a tool to simplify lesson planning, reduce administrative tasks, and enhance personalized learning, we can empower the potential of teachers and students and improve learning outcomes.”

To learn more about the findings, you can download the full report here.

Methodology

The survey consisted of responses from K–12 educators who work in districts across the U.S. and are members of Imagine Learning’s Teachers’ Lounge, a virtual space for teachers using Imagine Learning programs to connect, collaborate, and share classroom insights with colleagues across the country. Imagine Learning conducted the survey from August 25 – September 8, 2023, through a web-based quantitative survey that was approximately 7 minutes in length. 69% of respondents were teachers, followed by 19% administrators, and 12% support staff.

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 fueled by insights from educators, 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: imaginelearning.com.

October 16, 2023 8:00 am

Inquiry-Based Curriculum Solves Urgent Need to Develop Critical Thinking and Civic Engagement for Grades 6–12

Paradigm Shift from Legacy Textbooks to Fully Digital Social Studies Curriculum

Scottsdale, Arizona, October 16, 2023 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving 15 million students in more than half of school districts nationwide, today announced the launch of Traverse, a groundbreaking, innovative, and digital-first social studies, living core curriculum solution for grades 6–12. Traverse, created by a team of Imagine Learning developers and educators, represents a significant milestone for the organization as it expands its comprehensive suite of dedicated and immersive digital core curriculum courses for teachers and students across the country.

“Gone are the days of large history books that cannot be easily updated. Traverse turns that paradigm on its head and provides an on-ramp to ensuring that our students are taught the most updated information, yet customized to meet the standards of local communities,” said Jonathan Grayer, CEO of Imagine Learning. “This launch is a significant step forward for Imagine Learning as we now provide thousands of school districts — large and small — a complete array of solutions, from supplemental to intervention to core.“

In today’s evolving world, the demand for teaching social studies appropriately has never been greater. Districts have been searching for a modern curriculum that can adapt to their needs and empower teachers to meet the required content and instructional standards while encouraging critical thinking and civic engagement for students. Pairing advanced technology and engaging media with inquiry-based learning, Imagine Learning developed Traverse to address this market demand with a highly adaptable and engaging curriculum.

Mr. Grayer continued, “Traverse represents a real breakthrough in how social studies can and should be taught in this country. In a rapidly changing world where there is a greater urgency placed on teaching our students how to be responsible citizens contributing to the well-being of our society, Traverse solves an enormous problem facing our schools by equiping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate a complex and ever-changing global landscape. Like other Imagine Learning curricula, Traverse shares responsibility for this process with teachers, empowering them to cultivate the active, informed, and engaged citizens our society needs. We are very excited to bring Traverse to market.”

For the first time, students will be engaged in a comprehensive learning experience that combines content, inquiry, and skills development. Students are exposed to a wide array of multimedia resources, primary and secondary sources, lessons designed to build their skills, collaborative learning activities, and assessments to deepen their engagement with the subject matter. Traverse will prepare students for civic engagement beyond their classrooms by using a standards-backed, inquiry-based approach to learning. It aligns with the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework and state standards, providing teachers with a cohesive instructional social studies program for grades 6–12.

The Traverse Solution

Traverse was developed in collaboration with renowned educators Kathy Swan and Sam Wineburg , and designed by Imagine Learning’s development group, the same team that created the award-winning ELA program StudySync. Its digital-first instructional design allows districts to easily support changing curriculum standards with adaptable courses that are built with powerful media and interactives. Through a combination of video, activities, and tools, Traverse leverages interactive media to enhance engagement in instruction. Aligned to the C3 Framework, Traverse prepares students for college, career, and civic life by connecting the lessons to real-life social issues. Students are further supported through active learning and are encouraged to collaborate with their peers and find answers themselves through careful and critical study of the standards-based resources provided.

As part of its modern, new approach to social studies, Traverse:

Maximizes student learning by focusing only on the content standards teachers are expected to teach.
Enables students to critically evaluate issues, both inside and outside the classroom.
Blends technology and multimedia to empower learners.
Supports teachers in facilitating an equitable learning environment by providing the necessary resources to create personalized learning experiences.
Includes Imagine Learning’s exceptional digital and print implementation support and toolkits that work with districts according to their needs.
Offers varied modalities for lessons and is compatible with multiple devices.

Traverse is the latest digital-first curriculum to be added to Imagine Learning’s core product line, joining Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics, Twig Science, and Imagine Learning EL Education. It is available for U.S. History: Beginnings to the Civil War; U.S. History: Reconstruction to the Present; World History: Beginnings to the Reformation; World History: Emergence of the Modern World to the Present; World Geography; U.S. Government; and Economics. For more information on Traverse, visit www.imaginelearning.com/traverse.

About Imagine Learning

August 31, 2023 6:15 am

Imagine Robotify Named 2023 Tech Edvocate Award Winner

Imagine Robotify Earns Top Honor as Best Coding App or Tool in 2023 Tech Edvocate Awards

Scottsdale, Arizona, August 31, 2023 – Imagine Learning, a leading provider of digital curriculum solutions in the United States, has been named a 2023 Tech Edvocate Award winner in the Best Coding App or Tool for Imagine Robotify.

Imagine Robotify is an accessible, immersive computer science solution for grades 3 and above. Students learn to code by programming virtual robots on a 3D browser-based simulator. They also problem-solve through a “Learn, Create, Compete” instructional design—developing the four Cs of STEM. Learn more about Imagine Robotify here.

“We’re thrilled to be honored by the Tech Edvocate Awards with this recognition. This award represents the incredible work of many people at Imagine Learning who are dedicated to creating programs, like Imagine Robotify, that are efficacious and engaging for students,” shared Adam Dalton, CEO of Imagine Robotify. “It’s our passion to ensure every student knows they can be successful in whatever academic avenue they pursue, whether it’s coding or another STEM field they are interested in. We love that Imagine Robotify prepares today’s students for the future workforce by teaching critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity skills they’ll need to succeed.”

The Tech Edvocate Awards were created to highlight the edtech tools, organizations, and individuals that best serve and support today’s students and educators. Tech Edvocate Award winners were determined by a panel of edtech thought leaders, PreK-college educators and administrators, and PreK–12 parents. Judges evaluated entries based on whether the developers of the edtech product are in the educational field, whether the product was developed with research and teacher input, whether the product is scalable, flexible, engaging, and unique, and other rigorous qualifications.

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, fueled by insights from educators, that evolve with the ever-changing demands of tomorrow. We work alongside educators to support over 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science^®, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics^®, and Imagine Learning EL Education^®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with insightful and personalized instruction for literacy in English and Spanish, 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 https://www.imaginelearning.com.

August 29, 2023 6:15 am

Imagine Math Meets ESSA Evidence Standard

Evidence for ESSA’s review of Imagine Math research indicates promising evidence of program effectiveness

Scottsdale, Arizona, August 29, 2023 — A research study from Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving over 15 million students, received an ESSA Promising rating from Evidence for ESSA, a website produced by the Center for Research and Reform in Education at Johns Hopkins University that promotes the use of programs that meet ESSA evidence standards.

Evidence for ESSA reviewed Imagine Learning’s study Impact Evaluation of Imagine Math in a Charter School Network, and published their review in June 2023, indicating the research provides promising evidence of significant, positive impact for students in grades K-8.

“Educators are rightfully searching for educational programs with a proven record of effectiveness in helping students achieve learning gains,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer at Imagine Learning. “The research reviewed by Evidence for ESSA demonstrates Imagine Learning’s commitment to ensure that our products optimize learning outcomes for students. Our mission is to inspire learning breakthroughs for students, and studies like this provide evidence that Imagine Math helps students learn, grow, and reach their academic potential.”

For the Impact Evaluation of Imagine Math in a Charter School Network study, Imagine Learning partnered with a charter school network in the southeastern region of the United States to evaluate how Imagine Math impacted students’ academic performance in mathematics. In total, 9,015 users of the Imagine Math program in Kindergarten through Grade 8 were compared to 9,015 statistically similar students in Florida and North Carolina.

The research was designed to retroactively compare the academic performance of students who used Imagine Math with those who did not during the 2020–2021 school year. Results showed that students in grades K-8 who used Imagine Math scored significantly higher on the Spring 2021 administration of the NWEA MAP Growth Math test than did similar comparison students. Similarly, results by grade level showed statistically higher performance for students in Grades 1 through 8 who used Imagine Math. Thus, the study provided evidence that the use of Imagine Math supports students’ mathematics achievement.

Evidence for ESSA vets educational research through rigorous review “to provide clear and authoritative information on programs that meet the ESSA evidence standards and enable educators and communities to select effective educational tools to improve student success.” Congress passed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 as the federal law governing K-12 education. Within the bill are stipulations supporting the use of federal dollars on educational programs with evidence of effectiveness.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning creates K–12 digital-first solutions, fueled by insights from educators, that evolve with the ever-changing demands of tomorrow. We work alongside educators to support over 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science^®, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics^®, and Imagine Learning EL Education^®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with insightful and personalized instruction for literacy in English and Spanish, 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 https://www.imaginelearning.com.

Imagine Math^® provides rich, standards-based mathematics instruction in motivating, age-appropriate learning environments for PreK–Geometry. This supplemental, adaptive curriculum challenges students with grade-level content and provides scaffolds for learners, as needed, to ensure they always feel successful. Additionally, point-of-need access to live instruction by certified, bilingual math educators is available starting in grade 3.

August 23, 2023 9:00 am

Imagine Learning, the Largest National Provider of Digital Curriculum Solutions, Launches Artificial Intelligence Focused Venture Fund

Imagine Learning Ventures Will Invest in Disruptive and Promising A.I.-Powered Educational Solutions

Imagine Learning, the largest national provider of digital curriculum solutions serving over 15 million students and one million educators, has launched Imagine Learning Ventures, a venture fund to make investments in promising A.I.-powered educational solutions. Leveraging Imagine Learning’s industry expertise, domain knowledge, and strong balance sheet, coupled with its track record of successful acquisitions and investments in emerging technologies, this new fund will complement the company’s A.I. development initiatives with investments in startups that are at the forefront of innovative solutions for K–12 educators and learners.

“We have built a world-class business predicated on the fundamental belief in and commitment to the transformative impact of digitally enabled learning,” said Jonathan Grayer, Chairman and CEO of Imagine Learning. “Imagine Learning has always been at the cutting edge of leveraging technology, including A.I., to empower educators and improve student outcomes. We are investing aggressively, tapping into the enormous potential of generative A.I. while always keeping learner well-being and the teacher’s success top of mind to help shape tomorrow’s classrooms.”

“Imagine Learning Ventures is differentiated in several ways: by the strength of our balance sheet, which allows us to deploy millions of dollars across the A.I. landscape; by our patient capital approach that encourages thoughtful product development and engagement with teachers and administrators to solve their problems and improve learning outcomes; and by bringing access to a diversified network of businesses and customers across the K–12 ecosystem. We look forward to partnering with entrepreneurs around the world that can benefit from our established presence in K–12 education and long-term perspective,” Mr. Grayer stated.

Imagine Learning continuously invests to improve and augment its suite of leading curriculum products with tools that leverage A.I. to support students and educators. The company is focused on using A.I. to make itself more innovative, efficient, and productive — all designed to create better products and outcomes for customers.

Mr. Grayer concluded: “We are laser-focused on creating educational technology that does the heavy lifting so that teachers can do their most important work — interacting with students to ensure their academic success. The responsible use of A.I. means that we must always serve the teaching and learning goals, empower educators, follow sound pedagogy, and ensure that our solutions are safe for students and free from bias. We are excited about Imagine Learning Ventures and the opportunities ahead.”

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 PreK–12 digital-first solutions, fueled by insights from educators, that evolve with the ever-changing demands of tomorrow. We work alongside educators to support over 15 million students in half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science^®, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics^®, and Imagine Learning EL Education^®. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with insightful and personalized instruction for literacy in English and Spanish, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity^™ is our flagship courseware solution, complemented by Imagine School Services’ Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential.

August 16, 2023 9:00 am

Imagine Learning Foundation Awards $400,000 in Imagine Signature Grants to Five Organizations Dedicated to Learner Well-Being Outside the Classroom

Represents a 100% Increase in Signature Grants in Year Two of Program Foundation Remains Committed to Awarding $5 Million

Scottsdale, Arizona, August 16, 2023 – Imagine Learning Foundation (ILF), the philanthropic initiative funded by Imagine Learning, a leading provider of digital curriculum solutions in the United States, today announced that it has awarded approximately $400,000 in 2023 Imagine Signature Grants to five organizations actively working to improve the well-being of learners beyond the classroom. ILF and these five nonprofits are dedicated to meeting the critical needs of young people and their families throughout the country.

With an initial contribution of $5 million, Imagine Learning created and funded ILF with one principal goal: to foster the well-being of learners and the people who support them at home and in their communities. The 2023 Imagine Signature Grants represent a 100% increase over the 2022 Signature Grants and underscores ILF’s commitment to investing in initiatives that address holistic student well-being, with an emphasis on mental health and personal development.

“At Imagine Learning, we understand that effective learning thrives in a safe and supportive environment – where learners are supported physically, mentally and emotionally,” said Jonathan Grayer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Imagine Learning. “Our vision for the Imagine Learning Foundation is to invest in and elevate organizations dedicated to delivering solutions to today’s issues for students and families beyond the classroom walls. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact of our efforts to date. We will continue to play our part to support the enrichment and well-being of every learner on their journey to a brighter, successful future.”

The 2023 Imagine Signature Grant award winners are:

WPSU (Penn State University Philanthropic Fund), founded in 1965, is a Pennsylvania-based public media station dedicated to sparking discovery, enriching learning and strengthening communities through vibrant public media. To expand on WPSU’s forerunner multimedia project, Speaking Grief, ILF awarded WPSU a $100,000 grant to support the creation of Learning Grief, a free website, supplemented with community workshops and at-home learning materials, that will teach understanding and skills to support grieving children. Bereavement is the most common, and often overlooked, trauma suffered by children, and closely tied to poor academic performance. Learning Grief will provide age-appropriate lessons to help children navigate emotions dealing with grief and teach families and communities how to recognize grief and support children to deal with this trauma.

Our Minds Matter (OMM), founded in 2012, is a Virginia-based national nonprofit dedicated to fostering a world where no teen dies by suicide, and where all teens can seek help to become their healthiest and best selves. OMM implements student-led clubs where teens participate in activities designed to promote help-seeking behavior, positive coping skills, and other proactive suicide prevention efforts. OMM currently serves approximately 3,000 students in over 150 schools nationwide. ILF awarded OMM a $100,000 grant to support expansion into 20 new schools across the country.

Genesys Works, founded in Houston, Texas in 2002, is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing young adults in underserved communities with access to skills training, meaningful paid work opportunities, and impactful mentorship to help support each learner’s career path and individual upward mobility. ILF awarded Genesys Works with an $83,000 grant to implement new evaluation tools designed to measure changes in students’ adaptive mindset and career readiness for their 2024 and 2025 graduating classes.

Big Sky Youth Empowerment Program (BYEP), founded in 2001, is a Montana-based nonprofit dedicated to providing teenagers in Montana with group mentorship, experiential adventures, and life skills curriculum designed to foster success and help them become contributing members of society. ILF awarded BYEP a $58,000 grant to develop an age-appropriate suicide prevention and awareness curriculum as well as fund professional development for the BYEP team to assist teens who are experiencing a heightened state of crisis.

Erika’s Lighthouse, founded in 2004, is an Illinois-based national nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and providing school professionals with free resources to educate youth, their families, and the community about adolescent depression while breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. Erika’s Lighthouse was an inaugural Imagine Signature Grant recipient in 2022, and ILF is renewing their commitment in 2023 with an additional $50,000 grant to further expand upon the family engagement program that ILF previously supported. The new funding will allow Erika’s Lighthouse to increase their marketing efforts and staff capacity to fully engage more school communities and ensure all of Erika’s Lighthouse’s resources, including the family engagement program, are available to students across the country.

ILF received 450% more grant applications for the 2023 Imagine Signature Grant funding cycle. This significant increase in year two of the program underscores both the pressing needs of many organizations throughout the country for mission-critical resources and ILF’s willingness to invest in these programs. After a thorough review of compelling proposals by many worthy applicants, these five organizations were selected and awarded the resources requested to meet their project’s funding needs.

“All of us at the Imagine Learning Foundation were thrilled with the extraordinary surge in applications from qualified nonprofits devoted to supporting the well-being of learners outside of the classroom,” said Chris Graham, Chairman and President of the Imagine Learning Foundation. “The remarkable response reaffirms our commitment to impacting the lives of thousands of learners through targeted funding to amplify the tremendous efforts of organizations such as WPSU, Our Minds Matter, Genesys Works, BYEP, and Erika’s Lighthouse. We are proud to partner with these deserving organizations and we look forward to supporting them in their commendable endeavors.”

In addition to the Imagine Signature Grants, ILF has reserved funds to award a number of Grassroots Grants to employee-recommended regional organizations that focus on learner well-being and digital education equity in out-of-classroom learning spaces in Imagine Learning employees’ local communities. The Grassroot Grants will be announced later this year.

To learn more about the Imagine Learning Foundation and the Imagine Signature Grant winners, 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.

August 8, 2023 6:10 am

Twig Science Module Earns Prestigious WestEd NGSS Design Badge

Twig Science Middle School’s Volcano Hunters module was awarded the WestEd NGSS Design Badge

Scottsdale, Arizona – August 8, 2023 — Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving over 15 million students in more than half the school districts nationwide, has been awarded its first prestigious NGSS Design Badge from WestEd for the Volcano Hunters module of its Twig Science Middle School program.

WestEd, a nonpartisan research, development, and service agency, works with education and other communities to promote excellence, achieve equity, and improve learning for children, youth, and adults. The NGSS Design Badge is awarded to top-rated science lessons and units designed for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Only 4% of units reviewed by WestEd have been awarded the esteemed NGSS Design Badge.  The NGSS Design Badge provides an easy way for educators to be assured that units, like the Twig Science Middle School Volcano Hunters unit, are designed for the NGSS and that publishers and developers, are creating materials that are high quality and designed for NGSS.

Volcano Hunters is part of Twig Science Middle School, a phenomena-based program designed for the NGSS. In the module, students use visual media, datasets, maps, and hands-on exploration to figure out why some mountainous areas have volcanoes and others do not. They apply the three dimensions of the NGSS as they analyze real-life data from active volcanoes, assess threat levels, and devise a plan to protect people from the dangers of eruptions. A preview of the Volcano Hunters module can be found here.

“We are honored to be acknowledged by WestEd for our work on the Volcano Hunters module,” shared Natasha Stillwell, President of Imagine Learning Studios UK and a Twig Science program author. “The teams that work on our Twig Science program are incredibly talented and innovative, and focused on creating only the highest quality of science education curricula for our students and educators.”

Educational materials with the highest rating on the EQuIP Rubric for Science earn the NGSS Design Badge. Having a science unit achieve this distinction for design “reflects the degree to which the innovations represented by the standards are a foundational aspect of both the organization and content of the instructional materials.” Educators can use this distinction to help in their science curricula selection along with considering other third-party organizations that review materials for alignment and usability of the standards.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning provides digital-first PreK–12 solutions for core instruction, supplemental and intervention, online courses, and virtual instruction. Our mission is to ignite learning breakthroughs with forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology. Imagine Learning serves over 15 million students—partnering with over half of districts nationwide. 

Twig Science provides comprehensive coverage of science standards through engaging hands-on and digital investigations where Pre-K–8 students take on the roles of real-world scientists and engineers. Twig Science challenges all students to become creative problem solvers, making sense of real-world phenomena. Learn more about Imagine Learning at imaginelearning.com and learn more about Twig Science here. 