May 24, 2022 8:00 am

New Studies Reveal Significant Increases in Student Performance with Imagine Language & Literacy

Elementary School Students Using Imagine Language & Literacy Show Higher Scores and Proficiency Levels According to Three New Studies

Scottsdale, Ariz., MAY 24, 2022 – 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 the results of three new studies revealing that students who used Imagine Language & Literacy demonstrated significant academic gains on standardized assessments. The studies took place in schools across Idaho and Florida during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 school years.

“As we continue to collaborate with districts, the results of these studies show what the future of learning can look like when the power of technology is harnessed to support educators,” said Jeff Pendleton, SVP and General Manager of Supplemental and Intervention for Imagine Learning. “Students are thriving through the use of adaptive, personalized learning solutions and we’re excited to see that Imagine Language & Literacy is helping to accelerate learning and ignite breakthroughs.”

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE STUDIES:

  • English language learners (ELLs) attending 34 elementary schools in a large public school district in Florida used Imagine Language & Literacy during the 2019-20 school year. These students showed significant academic gains as measured by the WIDA ACCESS assessment. Data from the study indicated that forty percent of ELLs increased one or more proficiency levels from February 2019 to February 2020 and 14 percent of students scored Proficient in February 2020, according to Florida’s proficiency metrics.
  • In Bonneville School District in Southeastern Idaho, 213 bilingual students in Grades 1-7 using Imagine Language & Literacy scored significantly higher on the Winter 2020 WIDA ACCESS 2.0 assessment than in Winter 2019. Data from the study indicated that students who passed more lessons in Imagine Language & Literacy had higher scores.
  • In the Snake River School District in Blackfoot, Idaho, findings from the study show that after one year of Imagine Language & Literacy, Grades K-1 students demonstrated significant growth on the Renaissance Star Early Literacy and the Idaho Reading Indicator assessments. Overall, the percentage of Imagine Language & Literacy students meeting the Probable Reader classification (the highest literacy classification) on the Renaissance Star Early Literacy assessment more than doubled—from 21 percent in 2018 to 55 percent in 2019. Imagine Language & Literacy students also demonstrated impressive gains on the Idaho Reading Indicator, with the number of students scoring on grade level increasing significantly from 42 percent in 2018 to 66 percent in 2019.

Imagine Language & Literacy®—a SIIA CODiE Award winner of the “Best Foundation English Language Arts Instructional Solution” in 2021 and recently named finalist for a 2022 SIIA CODiE Award for “Best Solution for English as a Second Language,”—is the only personalized learning program that accelerates both literacy skills and English language development for students in grades PreK-6. Designed to supplement core literacy instruction, Imagine Language & Literacy provides instruction and practice in all four domains of literacy—reading, writing, listening, and speaking. As students explore and practice skills, their individualized learning sequence adjusts dynamically to maximize their engagement and progress, accelerating to match a cognitive leap, or adjusting to accommodate unfinished learning. More information is available at imaginelearning.com/language-and-literacy.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning is a PreK–12 digital learning solutions company that ignites learning breakthroughs by designing forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology to drive student growth. Imagine Learning serves more than 15 million students and partners with more than half the school districts nationwide. Imagine Learning’s flagship products include Imagine Edgenuity®, online courseware and virtual school services solutions; supplemental and intervention solutions for literacy, language, mathematics, robotics, and coding; and high-quality, digital-first core curriculum, including Illustrative Mathematics®, EL Education®, and Odell Education®—all on the Imagine Learning Classroom—and Twig Science®. Read more about Imagine Learning’s digital solutions at imaginelearning.com.

May 16, 2022 12:00 am

Key Components of Authentic Spanish Language Arts Instruction

Imagine Learning created a Cultural Advisory Board of Spanish Language Arts experts to seek feedback for constant improvement in authenticity of content and pedagogy. Here are their suggestions.

Map of United States showing the 2021 DLI Programs

There is a growing consensus among educators that dual-language programs are essential to student success, especially as we prepare them for a global economy. In fact, there has been substantial growth in dual language programs from 300 in 2001 to 3600 in 2021, an 1100% increase. Additionally, Spanish accounts for 80% of these language immersion programs in the U.S., so there is a massive demand for Spanish Language Arts (SLA) programs. A significant challenge, however, is providing authentic Spanish instruction. Imagine Español draws upon the expertise of a Cultural Advisory Board to understand the key components of an effective SLA program. The board consists of directors of dual language programs, district administrators, instructional coaches, and educators from our customer base. Here’s what we learned:

1. Authentic Spanish content drives student engagement

Board members shared that students are less engaged, and it is challenging to maintain their interest when they learn Spanish from trans-adapted rather than authentic content. According to Market Research, “The growing population of such students presents an opportunity to provide them with materials to address their needs. Some educators complain that materials offered for students are simply translations of standard materials, lacking the authenticity of content developed in the language. As schools become more diverse — with some large districts reporting more than 100 different languages spoken —educators say they cannot find resources for some English-language learners.” What teachers are looking for is content that is specifically created to support SLA instruction. This authentic content should provide rich language support through vocabulary practice, independent reading, and assessments while also inspiring cultural appreciation and a love for the Spanish language.

Screenshot from Imagine Español showing the vocabulary word agitar
Group of people watching a street performance

2. Representation in Spanish instruction is key

It’s common for SLA programs to focus primarily on content from Mexico, but providing content that embraces the diversity of Latin American culture promotes inclusivity. “‘If we can make children feel more whole and more ready and more accepted and welcomed and validate their prior knowledge and prior learning experiences, then we’ve gone a long way to making them ready to learn over the course of a lifetime,’ says Tara Fortune, immersion program director at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition.”

3. Instruction should be standards-aligned

As dual-language program adoption is expanding across schools in the U.S., there is greater demand for standards-aligned SLA education, particularly at the elementary level. Many states have their own SLA-specific standards, such as California. WIDA (World Class Instructional Design and Assessment) is a consortium of states with common SLA standards created in the early 2000s.

Because the creation and expansion of SLA programs and standards across the United States is more recent, there are not many SLA programs to choose from, let alone programs that are aligned with standards. The Center on Standards & Assessment Implementation described the important relationship between standards and curriculum: “Standards indicate what students should know and be able to do within a particular content area, while curriculum shapes how students will gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities as described in the standards.” A standards-aligned curriculum ensures teachers that students will focus on the skills they need, like accents, to be language proficient. SLA standards ask students to not only learn syllable emphasis but also to classify words by types of accents, such as agudas, graves, and esdrújulas, and also to spell words by placing accents correctly.

Laptop showing the Spanish Language Arts program

4. Digital instruction needs to be accessible to all students

The pandemic has brought to light the need for learning solutions to be accessible to students of all abilities, as well as for students who may be completing work on a smaller device, like a smartphone. Certain functions, like dragging and dropping, can be challenging, so providing multiple ways to respond to questions improves accessibility. Additionally, audio supports that read buttons or features allowed when students hover over them help to ensure all students can successfully complete the activity. This video shows an Imagine Español activity where students can use the different audio and video supports to learn vocabulary in multiple ways.

As dual-language programs become more prevalent, SLA curriculums evolve from their previous supplemental roles to be more front and center. And the experts all agree — to reach students, authenticity is key.

About the Author — Deviki Gupta

Product Marketing Manager, Imagine Español and Imagine Reading

Deviki Gupta is a Product Marketing Manager for Imagine Español and Imagine Reading. She leverages her six-year experience in EdTech and Big Data research to integrate customer insights into the product development and marketing roadmaps for Imagine Learning’s suite of dual-language solutions. Deviki is passionate about making bilingual education inclusive, culturally representative, and accessible for all.

May 5, 2022 8:00 am

Imagine Learning Recognizes Top Schools in 2022 Imagine Nation School of Excellence Awards

Annual Awards Celebrate Innovation, Dedication, and Exemplary Usage of Imagine Learning Digital Solutions

Scottsdale, AZ: May 5, 2022 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving 10 million students in more than half the school districts nationwide, today announced the winners of the 2021-22 Imagine Nation Awards, honoring schools across America for their exceptional use of Imagine Learning solutions.

The Imagine Nation Awards are part of the Imagine Learning motivational program, igniting engagement and strengthening confidence for all learners. More than 21,000 schools throughout the U.S. were eligible for the Imagine Nation School of Excellence Award.

“The most rewarding part of our work is collaborating with educators to create solutions that better empower them and improve student outcomes,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer. “Schools across the country have worked hard to achieve greater learning among their students this year and we’re honored to provide innovative solutions that have helped them accomplish their goals.”

Imagine Learning uses multiple measures, including usage and implementation data, to designate top schools for the Imagine Nation Awards. The Imagine Nation School of Excellence Award is presented to schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to effective implementation of an Imagine Learning program throughout the year. Based on rigorous research, Imagine Learning has found that meeting program usage and implementation goals is directly associated with increased student success and academic growth. Today, 280 schools are receiving the honor of being named an Imagine Nation school for the 2021-2022 school year.

Following official notification of the Imagine Nation Awards, each winning school will receive an Imagine Learning banner that displays their achievement.

Imagine Nation SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Edgenuity

  • Wilson K-8 School of Amphitheater Public Schools, AZ
  • San Luis High School of Yuma Union High School District, AZ
  • Adult School of Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District, CA
  • Linda Marquez Senior High Huntington Park Institute of Applied Medicine of LAUSD East, CA
  • Canyon Crest Academy of San Dieguito Union High School District, CA
  • Sierra Vista High School of Tulare Joint Union High School District, CA
  • Visalia Charter Independent Study and Online School of Visalia Unified School District, CA
  • Branson School Online of Branson School District RE- 82, CO
  • Doral Academy Preparatory School of Academica, FL
  • Somerset Academy Silver Palms Middle of Academica, FL
  • Devon Aire K-8 Center – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Jose Marti Mast 6-12 Academy – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Maritime & Science Technology Academy – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Medical Academy for Science and Technology (Homestead) – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Miami Arts Studio 6-12 At Zelda Glazer – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Miami Senior High School – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Young Women’s Preparatory Academy – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Boynton Beach Community High – Blended Learning of The School District of Palm Beach County – Blended Learning, FL
  • Olympic Heights Community High – Blended Learning of The School District of Palm Beach County – Blended Learning, FL
  • Chattahoochee High School of Fulton County School System, GA
  • Olathe Virtual School of Olathe USD 233, KS
  • Powdersville High School Blended of Anderson School District One, SC
  • Cane Ridge High School of Metro Nashville Public Schools, TN
  • KIPP Northeast College Preparatory of KIPP Texas Public Schools, TX
  • Jimmy Carter Early College High School of La Joya ISD, TX
  • The Phoenix Academy of Mansfield ISD, TX
  • Ed White Middle of North East ISD, TX
  • Chavez Excel Academy High School of Northside ISD, TX
  • Staunton River High School (Blended) of Bedford County Public Schools, VA
  • Tacoma Online of Tacoma Public Schools, WA

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Español

  • Harding Elementary of El Centro Elementary School District, CA
  • Mendota Elementary of Mendota Unified School District, CA
  • Burns Latino Studies Academy of Hartford Public Schools, CT
  • Michael D. Fox School of Hartford Public Schools, CT
  • Expeditionary Learning Academy at Moylan of Hartford Public Schools, CT
  • María C. Colón Sánchez Elementary of Hartford Public Schools, CT
  • Rogers Garden-Bullock Elementary of School District of Manatee County, FL
  • Pershing Elementary of Berwyn South School District 100, IL
  • Greenlawn Terrace Elementary of Jefferson Parish Public School System, LA
  • West Buncombe Elementary of Buncombe County Schools, NC
  • Bruce H. Tharrington Primary of Mount Airy City Schools, NC
  • Bear Creek Elementary of Bend-La Pine Schools, OR
  • Kocurek Elementary of Austin ISD, TX
  • Sims Elementary of Austin ISD, TX
  • Oppe Elementary Magnet Campus of Coastal Studies of Galveston ISD, TX
  • Collier Elementary of Harlandale ISD, TX
  • Trimmier Elementary of Killeen ISD, TX
  • Mahaffey Elementary of Klein ISD, TX
  • Lawson Early Childhood Center of McKinney ISD, TX
  • DeZavala Elementary of Midland ISD, TX
  • Milam Elementary of Midland ISD, TX
  • Burke Elementary of Northside ISD, TX
  • Howsman Elementary of Northside ISD, TX
  • Davis Elementary of Royse City ISD, TX
  • Beethoven Elementary of Vanguard Academy, TX
  • Zundy Elementary of Wichita Falls ISD, TX

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Language & Literacy

  • Mary Welty Elementary of Nogales Unified School District, AZ
  • Abraham Lincoln Middle of Selma Unified School District, CA
  • Burney Elementary of Hillsborough County Public Schools, FL
  • Citrus Park Elementary of Hillsborough County Public Schools, FL
  • Folsom Elementary of Hillsborough County Public Schools, FL
  • Temple Terrace Elementary of Hillsborough County Public Schools, FL
  • Pleasant Hill Elementary of School District of Osceola County, FL
  • Grove Park Elementary of The School District of Palm Beach County, FL
  • Lake Park Elementary of The School District of Palm Beach County, FL
  • Lantana Elementary of The School District of Palm Beach County, FL
  • Harper Elementary of Clayton County Public Schools, GA
  • Northcutt Elementary of Clayton County Public Schools, GA
  • Murdock Elementary of Cobb County School District, GA
  • Cox Elementary of Colquitt County Schools, GA
  • Clear Creek Middle of Gilmer County Schools, GA
  • Wilson Middle of Moline-Coal Valley School District No. 40, IL
  • Brookside School 54 of Indianapolis Public Schools, IN
  • Earl Watson Jr Early Childhood Center of Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, KS
  • Madeline M Breckinridge Elementary of Fayette County Public Schools, KY
  • Moss Hill Elementary of Lenoir County Public Schools, NC
  • Liberty Elementary of Broken Arrow Public Schools, OK
  • Lincoln Elementary of Ponca City Public Schools, OK
  • Tschetter Colony School of Freeman Public School District 33-1, SD
  • Longlake Colony Elementary of Leola 44-2, SD
  • Springfield Middle of Robertson County Schools, TN
  • IDEA Los Encinos Middle of IDEA Public Schools, TX
  • IDEA University Prep Middle of IDEA Public Schools, TX
  • KIPP Unity Primary of KIPP Public Schools, TX
  • Progreso Elementary of Progreso ISD, TX
  • Parkway Intermediate School of Ephrata School District 165, WA

2021-2022 Districts of Excellence, Imagine Learning EL Education

  • DeSoto Parish School Board, LA
  • Detroit Public Schools Community District, MI
  • Jackson R-2 School District, MO
  • Cincinnati Public Schools, OH
  • Cleveland Metropolitan School District, OH
  • Richard Allen Schools, OH
  • Lenoir City Schools, TN
  • McMinn County Schools, TN
  • Sequatchie County Schools, TN

2021-2022 Schools/Districts of Excellence, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics (Formerly LearnZillion)

  • Greeley Evans School District 6, CO
  • Red Clay Consolidated School District, DE
  • Smyrna School District, DE
  • Laurel School District, DE
  • Bettendorf Community School District, IA
  • Community Consolidated School District 59, IL
  • Kankakee School District 111, IL
  • Ottawa Unified School District 290, KS
  • Jefferson County Public Schools, KY
  • Ipswich Public Schools, MA
  • Dorchester County Public Schools, MD
  • Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
  • Washington County Public Schools, MD
  • Portland Public Schools, ME
  • Harmony Learning Center of North St Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale ISD 622, MN
  • North High School of North St Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale ISD 622, MN
  • Tartan High School of North St Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale ISD 622, MN
  • Therapeutic Education Collective of North St Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale ISD 622, MN
  • North St Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale ISD 622, MN
  • Springfield Public Schools, MO
  • Bainbridge Island School District, WA
  • Kelso School District, WA

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Lectura

  • Mary Belle McCorkle Academy of Excellence K-8 of Tucson Unified School District, AZ
  • Truman School of New Haven Public Schools, CT
  • Denison Elementary of Denison Community School District, IA
  • Steuben Elementary of Kankakee School District 111, IL
  • Melrose Park Elementary of Maywood Melrose Park School District 89, IL
  • River Woods Elementary of Naperville Community Unit School District 203, IL
  • Lincoln Elementary of New Brunswick Public Schools, NJ
  • Lord Stirling Community School of New Brunswick Public Schools, NJ
  • Overton Elementary of Austin ISD, TX
  • Love Elementary of Houston ISD, TX

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Math 3+

  • Coronado Elementary of Nogales Unified School District, AZ
  • Hollywood Academy of Arts and Science-Elementary of Charter Schools USA, FL
  • Renaissance Elementary Charter of Charter Schools USA, FL
  • Renaissance Charter School at West Palm Beach of Charter Schools USA, FL
  • Winthrop Charter of Charter Schools USA, FL
  • Woodland Hills Elementary of Bonneville Joint School District No. 93, ID
  • Robert Healy Elementary of Chicago Network 6, IL
  • Bayou Boeuf Elementary of Lafourche Parish School District, LA
  • Sanborn Elementary of Alpena Public Schools, MI
  • School Three of Clifton Public Schools, NJ
  • Old Union Elementary of Carroll ISD, TX
  • Blanton Elementary of Denton ISD, TX
  • Sally E. Moore College & Career Preparatory of Grand Prairie ISD, TX
  • Hereford Preparatory Academy of Hereford ISD, TX
  • KIPP CONNECT Houston Primary of KIPP Texas Public Schools, TX
  • Rusk Elementary of Midland ISD, TX
  • Cole Elementary of Northside ISD, TX
  • Fisher Elementary of Northside ISD, TX
  • Lakeview Elementary of Northwest ISD, TX
  • Sheppard Elementary of Wichita Falls ISD, TX
  • Pioneer Valley Elementary of Bethel School District 403, WA
  • Buffalo Elementary of Logan County School District, WV

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Math Facts

  • Carolyn Lewis Elementary of Conway Public Schools, AR
  • C. Wright Elementary of Wilkes County Schools, NC
  • Academy C School of Guymon Public School, OK
  • Evergreen Elementary of Three Rivers School District, OR
  • Nescopeck Elementary of Berwick Area School District, PA
  • Hollywood Elementary of Saluda County School District, SC
  • Saluda Primary of Saluda County School District, SC
  • Hutchins Elementary of El Campo ISD, TX
  • Highland School of Highland ISD, TX
  • Sunnyside Elementary of Marysville School District 25, WA

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Math PreK-2

  • Jones Valley Elementary of Huntsville City Schools, AL
  • Renaissance Elementary Charter of Charter Schools USA, FL
  • Rivers Elementary of Atlanta Public Schools, GA
  • Center For Inquiry School 70 of Indianapolis Public Schools, IN
  • Center For Inquiry School 84 of Indianapolis Public Schools, IN
  • George W. Julian School 57 of Indianapolis Public Schools, IN
  • Central Elementary of Yukon School District I-27, OK
  • Surrey Hills Elementary of Yukon School District I-27, OK
  • Cumberland Valley Virtual Elementary of Cumberland Valley School District, PA
  • McNair Elementary of Denton ISD, TX
  • Paloma Creek Elementary of Denton ISD, TX
  • Julian S. Adame Elementary of Donna ISD, TX
  • Walnut Glen Academy for Excellence of Garland ISD, TX
  • Wilmeth Elementary of McKinney ISD, TX
  • Parker Elementary of Midland ISD, TX
  • Pease Communication & Technology of Midland ISD, TX
  • Santa Rita Elementary of Midland ISD, TX
  • Dudley Elementary of Victoria ISD, TX
  • Bridge Elementary of Bridge Elementary Charter, UT
  • Utah Connections Academy of Connections Academy Corporation, UT

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine MyPath

  • Fulton Academy of Science and Technology of Fulton County School System, GA
  • Hawthorn Elementary of Park Hill School District, MO
  • Excelsior Classical Academy, NC
  • Warsaw Elementary of Duplin County Schools, NC
  • North Park Elementary of Broken Bow Public Schools, NE
  • Cody Elementary of North Platte Public Schools, NE
  • Eisenhower Elementary of North Platte Public Schools, NE
  • Lake Maloney Elementary of North Platte Public Schools, NE
  • Seward Elementary of Seward Public Schools, NE
  • The Renaissance Charter School 2 of Renaissance Charter Schools, NY
  • Cincinnati Technology Academy of Cincinnati Technology Academy, OH
  • Brinkley Heights Urban Academy of Brinkley Heights Urban Academy, TN
  • Clyde Elementary of Clyde CISD, TX
  • Dalhart Elementary of Dalhart ISD, TX
  • Mitchell Boulevard Elementary of Fort Worth ISD, TX

2021-2022 Districts of Excellence, Imagine Odysseyware

  • IDEA – iGrad – Site, AK
  • East Grand School District, CO
  • Belmond-Klemme Community School District, IA
  • New Horizons Learning Center, IN
  • Maize Unified School District #266, KS
  • Madison County Schools, MS
  • Dundee Central School District, NY
  • Meade School District 46-1, SD
  • Marble Falls ISD, TX
  • Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD, TX
  • Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District, WI
  • School District of South Milwaukee, WI

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Pathblazer

  • Don Tyson School of Innovation of Springdale School District 50, AR
  • St Odilia School of Archdiocese Los Angeles Education Office, CA
  • Tracy Independent Study Charter of Tracy Unified School District, CA
  • Icon Preparatory School – Tampa of Icon Preparatory School, FL
  • Hartridge Academy of Polk County Public Schools, FL
  • Model Elementary of Floyd County Schools, GA
  • North Magoffin Elementary of Magoffin County Schools, KY
  • Taylor County Primary of Taylor County School District, KY
  • Campton Elementary of Wolfe County Schools, KY
  • Allenbrook Elementary of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
  • Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Elementary of Archdiocese of New York Catholic Schools, NY
  • Creekside Middle of Fairfield City School District, OH
  • Urbana Elementary of Urbana City Schools, OH
  • State Street Elementary Center of Wyoming Valley West School District, PA
  • Harmony Educational Services- Subs of Harmony Educational Services, UT
  • Blue Peak Online of Tooele County School District, UT

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Imagine Reading

  • Baggett Elementary of Gwinnett County Public Schools, GA
  • Black Canyon Middle of Bonneville Joint School District No. 93, ID
  • Centennial High School of West Ada School District, ID
  • Paul Barnhart Elementary of Charles County Public Schools, MD
  • Gulfport High School of Gulfport School District, MS
  • Public Schools of Robeson County, NC
  • Mesa View Middle of Farmington Municipal Schools, NM
  • Jay Middle School of Jay Public Schools, OK
  • Creek Elementary of Muskogee Public Schools, OK
  • Northeast Middle of Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, TN
  • Langford Elementary of Austin ISD, TX
  • IDEA Los Encinos Middle of IDEA Public Schools, TX
  • IDEA Walzem Middle of IDEA Public Schools, TX
  • West Orange-Stark Middle of West Orange-Cove Consolidated ISD, TX
  • Ibapah School of Tooele County School District, UT
  • Washington Elementary of Washington County School District, UT
  • Midway Elementary of Dinwiddie County Public Schools, VA
  • Hilltop Elementary of Edmonds School District, WA
  • Spruce Elementary of Edmonds School District, WA
  • McClure Elementary of Grandview School District 200, WA

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Legacy MyPath

  • Bakersfield Adult School of Kern High School District, CA
  • Independent Study Program of Red Bluff Joint Union High School District, CA
  • Central Middle of Nederland ISD, TX

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Purpose Prep K-5

  • Southgate Academy of Southgate Academy Charter School District, AZ
  • Excelsior Classical Academy, NC
  • Memphis College Prep of Memphis-Shelby County Schools, TN
  • Boyd Elementary of Boyd ISD, TX
  • Upshur County Shared Service Arrangement of Upshur County Shared Service Arrangement, TX

2021-2022 Schools of Excellence, Purpose Prep 6-12

  • Brindlee Mountain High School (Tutor) – Blended of Marshall County School District – Blended, AL
  • Douglas Middle School (Tutor) – Blended of Marshall County School District – Blended, AL
  • Academy For International Education Charter of Academy for International Education Charter School, FL
  • Ruth Rains Middle of Dixie County School District, FL
  • West Glades School of Glades County School District, FL
  • Graceville School of Jackson County School Board, FL
  • Grand Ridge School of Jackson County School Board, FL
  • Malone School of Jackson County School Board, FL
  • Lafayette High School 6-12 of Lafayette County School District, FL
  • Lawton Chiles Middle School – BL of Miami-Dade – Blended Learning, FL
  • Coral Shores High School of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Horace Obryant Middle of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Key Largo School of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Key West High School of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Marathon Middle High School of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Plantation Key Elementary of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Sugarloaf School of Monroe County School District, FL
  • Round Lake Charter of Round Lake Charter, FL
  • Coastal Plains Charter High School – Bulloch of Coastal Plains Education Charter High School, GA
  • Coastal Plains Charter High School – Camden of Coastal Plains Education Charter High School, GA
  • Coastal Plains Charter High School – Lowndes of Coastal Plains Education Charter High School, GA
  • Coastal Plains Charter High School – Wayne of Coastal Plains Education Charter High School, GA
  • Winfield High School of Winfield Unified School District 465, KS
  • Hernando High School of Desoto County Schools, MS
  • Southhaven Middle of Desoto County Schools, MS
  • Winters Junior High and High School of Winters ISD, TX

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning is a PreK–12 digital learning solutions company that ignites learning breakthroughs by designing forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology to drive student growth. Imagine Learning serves more than 10 million students and partners with more than half the school districts nationwide. Imagine Learning’s flagship products include Imagine Edgenuity®, online courseware and virtual school services solutions; supplemental and intervention solutions for literacy, language, mathematics, robotics, and coding; and high-quality, digital-first core curriculum, including Illustrative Mathematics®, EL Education®, and Odell Education®—all on the Imagine Learning Classroom—and Twig Science®. Read more about Imagine Learning’s digital solutions at imaginelearning.com.

May 3, 2022 12:00 am

Teachers, Our Gratitude for You is Infinite

Dr. Kimberlin Rivers, Vice President of Instruction at Imagine Learning, appreciates teachers not just during Teacher Appreciation Month, but every month, week, and day.

Dear Teachers, 

What an interesting two years! Although the world of education has a high degree of unpredictability, who would have thought the events would transform how we think about student learning, how we interact with students, and how we engage children in the most complicated circumstances. How do you find the time to connect? Why are you so persistent? What makes you push forward despite the competing forces that impede student success? 

When I think of you and all your efforts, I cannot help but think about the great Olympians who train intensely with the vision of becoming a gold medalist for their countries. One such competition where an Olympian “beat the odds” comes to mind. In the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, “Eric the Eel” Moussambani proclaimed a profound perspective which sparked global inspiration. He indicated that it is not all about winning. It is about participating, ambition and showing initiative to the vision of winning. Moussambani, from New Guinea, trained for the swim competition in a hotel pool, never really had a professional coach, and barely had the financial resources to pursue his dream of becoming an Olympian. Despite his perceived resources, his drive, ambition, and vision overrode any thought of failure. 

Moussambani competed. Despite receiving one of the slowest times in Olympic history for the competition, Moussambani completed the race. He became known as “Eric the Eel” because his resilience embodied the soul of an Olympian in that it isn’t always about winning, it is about participating and finishing the race. When interviewed, Moussambani stated, “The first 50 meters were OK, but in the second 50 meters I got a bit worried and thought I wasn’t going to make it. Then something happened. I think it was all the people getting behind me. I was really, really proud. It’s still a great feeling for me, and I loved when everyone applauded me at the end. I felt like I had won a medal or something.” 

When I reflect on our teachers, teacher leaders, curriculum writers, professional development teams and others, I cannot help but think we embody the spirit of champions. We prepare, coach, train, and build champion learners who eventually become champion citizens and champion contributors to the advancement of the world. While Teacher Appreciation Month is May, every day you are appreciated, respected and admired for a job well done. On behalf of the leaders and customers of Imagine Learning, I salute you with infinite gratitude and appreciation.  

In partnership for results, 

Dr. Kimberlin V. Rivers
Vice President of Instruction, Instructional Services
Imagine Learning  

Kimberlin Rivers

About the Author – Kimberlin Rivers

Vice President of Instruction, Instructional Services, Imagine Learning


Dr. Kimberlin Rivers is Instructional Services’ Vice President of Instruction. Kimberlin’s quiet moments span from reading great business literature to engaging in family celebrations. In addition to spending time with her two children, she also leads the most renowned K-12 Instructional Services teaching team in the U.S. Soon celebrating her ninth-year anniversary with the company, Dr. Rivers brings a wealth of educational administration knowledge in teaching and leading. In addition, she has over 25 years of management experience in both the public and private education sectors as well as in international transport and logistics management. In terms of education and credentials, Kimberlin possesses a B.S in Organizational Management, Development, and Leadership, M. Ed in Educational Technology, Ed.S in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Educational Law. Dr. Rivers holds Teaching, Principal, and Division Superintendent licenses in the state of Virginia.

April 28, 2022 8:00 am

Four Ways We Design for Students

We know your students are always at the center of your lesson planning. They’re at the heart of ours, too.

Trusting us with your students — and keeping their best interests at heart — is a privilege that we don’t take lightly. You want to know that when students log in to one of our programs, they’re receiving the absolute best instruction and an equitable user experience. Most of all, you want to know that it works.  

We share each educator’s mission to foster student growth. 

Still, when we say we create dynamic, student-centered digital curricula, what exactly do we mean? Here are four ways we design for students: it starts with research (efficacy and foundational), we take the time to talk to students and teachers like you and incorporate feedback, we prioritize equity, and we’re always searching for ways to better engage students in their learning. This way, when you’re using one of our programs, you can focus on what you do best: connecting with students and, you know, teaching.

1. It starts with a strong foundation in research

Our research team at Imagine Learning geeks out on a wide body of peer-reviewed research. So, you can know that when students complete lessons, they’re going to receive instruction steeped in what works. Two types of research are incorporated: foundational (what we build our products on), and efficacy (how we measure the effectiveness of what we’ve created).

Foundational Research  

Imagine Learning incorporates well-accepted research into its work at every opportunity, drawing from a wide range of inquiry and analysis to inform the instructional design of our solutions and ignite learning breakthroughs. 

Let’s take a quick look at how this works for one of our products, Imagine Math. We know conceptual understanding is critical for math success… but what method of instruction supports this best? Dr. Heather West, the Principal Foundational Research Specialist at Imagine Learning shares, “To effectively support students’ conceptual understanding of mathematics, it is important that we draw on research to determine what students need to learn to master grade-level content and how to best teach these concepts. Our Imagine Math lessons incorporate the concrete-representational-abstract framework to help students make meaning of the concept, make connections across representations, and understand the underlying concepts behind the procedures.”  

Additionally, research has found that students who are intrinsically motivated perform at higher levels (Lemos & Verissimo, 2014; Skaalvik et al., 2015), are more inclined to persevere when faced with challenges (Huang, 2011), and develop a deeper understanding of content (Zainuddin et al., 2020). Therefore, Imagine Math aims to intrinsically motivate students by incorporating real-world situations that are interesting and relatable. These lessons also encourage choice and promote self-directed learning by encouraging them to choose from a variety of reward environments and skills-based games. 

Discover how we translate critical research into smart instructional design for all or our products to propel learning outcomes for students.  

Efficacy Research 

We continuously measure the impact our programs have on student success and school communities. “Our evaluative studies,” said Andrew Berrett, PhD, Director of Efficacy Research at Imagine Learning, “are designed to meet the level of research rigor required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (2016) in demonstrating evidence of effectiveness for a diverse population of students across the nation. Insights obtained from these studies are used to inform the instructional design of our solutions and ignite learning breakthroughs.”

Here are a few recent examples:  

Credit Recovery Students Using Edgenuity Recover 26 Percent More Credits and Graduate at a Higher Rate than Their Peers: A research brief showing how Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District students enrolled in Imagine Edgenuity’s online English I, English II, Algebra I, U.S. History, and Biology credit recovery courses obtained more credits and achieved higher course grades than an equivalent group of students enrolled in a face-to-face credit recovery course. 

An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Language & Literacy for Improving Reading Skills: An independent research study that shows how fourth- and fifth-grade students who used Imagine Language & Literacy showed significantly more growth in reading skills than comparable students who did not use Imagine Learning. 

You can browse the entire library of efficacy research here. 

2. The most important feedback comes from students (and teachers!) 

Real students give us real feedback, and their reactions and opinions are integrated into design choices such as minimizing distractions on the page, the addition of micro-celebrations and opportunities to motivate students, and more. 

Once we’ve got a prototype of a desired program, or updates to an existing one, Imagine Learning’s Product Experience Design team form a test group of students (and educators!) that use the product for a set amount of time. There are two main questions the team asks when doing user research. First, can they design for specific students’ needs and wants? Empathy is the keyword here. Our products should be designed with empathy for what both educators and students want and need.  

The second question they keep in mind is, do our ideas translate into something meaningful for students and teachers?  

“We want to test specific aspects of our designs or ideas and understand whether or not they actually work for users,” said Imagine Learning user experience researcher, Michael Richard. “I think it’s the Hippocratic oath — which is ‘do no harm.’ If you are trying to build something new and exciting and interesting, you also have to evaluate whether or not students and instructors are able to effectively accomplish the tasks that you think are critical. Because you can make something beautiful but if nobody understands how to use it, that’s kind of a huge problem.” 

3. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important

Diversity and inclusivity strengthen our team, enrich our lives, and help us better serve our students with materials in which they not only see themselves reflected but also learn about diverse people, cultures, experiences, and perspectives. Our materials fit into practices like Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Teaching and Universal Design for Learning – where each student’s unique learning journey is valued.  

Here are the principles we follow when creating content:  

Inclusion: Create content reflective of our users so that students see themselves, their family members, and their communities in the content. 

Representation: Show people and groups the way they want to be shown via terminology, visual and cultural representations, and more.  

Perspective: Include more diversity of perspectives to create more complete and accurate materials, including centering of viewpoints outside of the dominant culture.   

Accuracy: Be fact-based, provide context, and talk about impacts.  

A quick example of this can be found in Imagine Math, which promotes learning through lovable characters, songs, and stories. The characters are intentionally designed to be culturally inclusive and to inspire students to dream big. STEM-driven careers are highlighted throughout the narrative; Ruby wants to be an engineer when she grows up, Maya is a scientist in the making, Oliver likes to build robots, and Sophia is on her way to becoming a doctor. The narration fosters feelings of relatedness and inclusivity between students and Imagine Math’s friendly characters.

Another example of diversity in our products can be found in Imagine Español, a K-5 Spanish Language Arts curriculum:

4. We engage students with relevant content

At Imagine Learning, we are focused on constantly updating our content to make it more relevant and engaging for students. For example, we’ve added new video content to Imagine Edgenuity this year that features student actors talking to and explaining key concepts to students.

Imagine Edgenuity — Integers and the Number Line Math Lesson

Using a real-life example, students are led through a small exploration of how integers impact their lives. Through this video they learn examples and non-examples of integers and can apply it to the learning that lies ahead.

Additionally, Imagine MyPath K–12 is a supplemental curriculum that utilizes Smart Sequencer™ technology to prioritize essential skills and create individual learning paths (ILPs) in reading and mathematics. However, if a fifth-grade student is reading at a first-grade level, they do not receive the same examples and instruction as a first-grade student would. A student’s chronological grade determines their experience in the program and the presentation of information, but their skill level determines the types of questions presented, humanizing their experience.
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Designing for students is our commitment not just to the younger generations, but to educators like you as well. With a well-crafted curriculum, you don’t have to search endlessly on the internet for relevant materials. You can focus on what matters most: your students.  

April 20, 2022 9:00 am

How to Teach Coding (When You Don’t Know How to Code!)

Coding is quickly becoming an essential foundational skill for students. The good news? You don’t have to be an expert to facilitate learning. Here are a few tips to get you started.

As if educators don’t have enough on their plates, basic coding is quickly becoming an additional foundational skill for our students. It’s not hard to understand why.

Coding gives students a valuable skill in today’s job market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that computer and information technology employment will grow approximately 13% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than other occupations. Some estimates claim that 20% of career-track jobs currently require some form of coding. Yet, between foundational reading and math skills, pre-algebra readiness, and more… how does one squeeze in coding? More importantly, how do you teach it when you don’t know how to code anything yourself?

Motivation is everything

As with any subject matter or skill, start by getting buy-in from kids that it’s worth their time and effort. Coding is a way to create and manipulate things like apps and websites, databases, and more. Be honest with them that learning to code will earn them an excellent salary whether they choose to pursue a computer programing bachelor’s degree or take an associate’s degree or “boot camp” route. In addition, multiple industries outside of computer programming require coding skills, from healthcare and finance to data science and software engineering. Bottom line: learning to code opens well-paying career opportunities.

If you have students who aren’t as interested in their future yet or are a little too young to think that far ahead, try tapping into their creativity and sense of competition. Coding programs geared toward a younger audience give students a game-like environment in which they can solve real-world problems, control their own robot, and compete in a virtual coding competitions. Find a coding program that ignites excitement and makes coding fun and not just “another task” to complete.

Let your students be the experts

You don’t have to be a content expert in coding to facilitate learning. Consider it an opportunity to model curiosity and problem-solving! Provide an excellent coding program as a guide or resource, start with small, achievable goals or a project-based-learning-style question, and let your students figure it out. Set a deadline and ask them to present the basics of coding to you. It may feel scary as the teacher, but your students will relish knowing more than their teacher.

No, it’s not really like teaching a second language

Because coding happens in specific computer “languages,” it’s common to assume that acquiring coding skills is like learning a second language or learning to read. However, recent cognitive research shows this is far from true. The “language” areas of the brain are not activated when we learn to code or participate in coding.

In fact, what is activated is the “multiple-demand” network — the part of your brain required for complex tasks, including spatial-thinking, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Scratch vs. Python: what grade level and with which language should instruction begin?

JavaScript. HTML. C++. Block coding. Python. It all sounds like French to you, right? Here’s the deal on which language to choose and where to begin.

Block-based coding programs or “languages,” such as Scratch, are not a method by which professional coders code. Block-coding is more like a simplified instructional tool to help build a foundational understanding of coding. Students manipulate code by dragging and dropping “blocks” that have actions assigned to them. Consider it an introduction to coding and a perfect option for true beginners or young elementary students.

Python is the real deal — an actual language professionals use. It also is the preferred “beginner” language of choice. At what age should students dive into it? There are no fixed rules, and any motivated child is welcome to dive right in. Upper-elementary to middle school age is probably a realistic grade span to begin Python. Students who start with block coding will naturally reach a boredom point, as block coding has creative limitations. When they realize the more complicated (and fun!) tasks they can accomplish in Python, they’ll be ready to make the switch.

Yes, high school students (maybe even 8th graders!) can start with Python and skip block coding. However, there’s nothing wrong with a little foundational practice in block to get them started.

Try a blended-learning model of instruction

Ok, so you’ve committed to teaching coding to your students, you’ve selected a terrific program to do the heavy instructional lift, and you know which coding language you are starting them with. Now what?

A blended learning model works great for teaching coding via a digital program. You can easily set up a station with iPads or tablets in a station-rotation model. Students log in for that station and then move on to other instructional tasks when you tell them it’s time to switch stations. This doesn’t take away much from your designated instructional minutes but adds a fun task into the mix (and a brain break from all the rote reading, writing, and arithmetic!).

You can also assign 10–15 minutes of coding for homework or extra credit via an app or web-based application and have a quick discussion about what they learned when class is back in session. This would be more of a flipped classroom learning model.

In whatever way you choose to incorporate coding instruction, know that any amount is better than none for what is quickly becoming an essential skill for today’s students.

April 20, 2022 8:00 am

Imagine Learning Named 2022 SIIA CODiE Award Finalist in Four Categories

Imagine Language & Literacy, Imagine Learning Twig Science and Imagine Robotify Earn Honor from Education Technology Industry Leaders

Scottsdale, Ariz. APRIL 20, 2022 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving over 10 million students in more than half the school districts nationwide, was today named as a finalist for four 2022 SIIA CODiE Awards for Imagine Language & Literacy, Imagine Learning Twig Science, and in two categories for Imagine Robotify. CODiE finalists represent the best products, services, and people in the education and business technology industries.

“It is a great honor to have our products selected as finalists for CODiE Awards,” said Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer for Imagine Learning. “The CODiE Awards have long been the gold standard for recognizing excellence in education technology and we’re excited that our industry peers have identified Imagine Language & Literacy, Imagine Learning Twig Science, and Imagine Robotify as leaders in English language learning, science education, and coding and virtual instruction.”

Imagine Learning CODiE finalists include:

Imagine Language & Literacy won “Best Foundational English Language Arts Instructional Solution” in 2021. It is the only personalized learning program that accelerates both literacy skills and English language development for students in grades PreK-6. Designed to supplement core literacy instruction, Imagine Language & Literacy provides instruction and practice in all four domains of literacy—reading, writing, listening, and speaking. As students explore and practice skills, their individualized learning sequence adjusts dynamically to maximize their engagement and progress, accelerating to match a cognitive leap, or adjusting to accommodate unfinished learning.

Imagine Twig Science provides comprehensive coverage of science standards through engaging hands-on and digital investigations in which PreK-8 students take on the roles of real-world scientists and engineers. The program was created from the ground up for the Next Generation Science Standards and ensures that all students have an interwoven understanding of Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs), Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs). The unique instructional design challenges students to become creative problem solvers, making sense of engaging, real-world phenomena.

  • Imagine Robotify – Finalist in two categories: “Best Coding & Computational Thinking Solution” and “Best Virtual Lab”

Imagine Robotify is a browser-based digital solution designed to teach coding using the world’s best computer science simulator. The platform offers students the freedom and creativity they need to realize their original ideas and, in the process, develop their capacity for critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Imagine Robotify provides students with the ability to master coding skills and apply their critical thinking to robotics, math, science, and coding skills through project- and game-based learning. Students have access to more than 1,000 different coding activities and games, including 24/7 access to the latest and greatest virtual robots without having to ever purchase real hardware.

The SIIA CODiE Awards, the long-running, premier awards program for the software and information industries are produced by the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA), the principal trade association for the software, education, media and digital content industries.  Imagine Learning was picked as a finalist across 47 education technology categories, including new categories in education and leadership.

The SIIA CODiE Awards have recognized thousands of Education and Business technology companies, products, and services as leaders in innovation and excellence for the past 37 years. The CODiE Awards are the only industry peer-reviewed awards program that includes a detailed review by industry experts.

“The 2022 CODiE Award finalists highlight the products and people who drove their industries forward through innovative products and leadership in these uncertain times,” said SIIA President Jeff Joseph. “These honorees continue the proud tradition of CODiE Award finalists of recognizing the most impactful products, services and leaders of their time, setting a foundation for the next generation of innovators. Congratulations to all who received this well-earned acknowledgment.”

The SIIA CODiE Awards are the industry’s only peer-recognized awards program. Finalists are determined by industry experts. CODiE Award winners will be announced during the virtual winner announcement celebrations June 8 and June 9, 2022.

Details about each finalist are listed at https://siia.net/codie/codie-finalists/

About the SIIA CODiE™ Awards

The SIIA CODiE Awards is the only peer-reviewed program to showcase business and education technology’s finest products and services. Since 1986, thousands of products, services and solutions have been recognized for achieving excellence. For more information, visit siia.net/CODiE.

About Software and Information Industry Association (SIIA)

SIIA is the only professional organization connecting more than 450 data, financial information, education technology, specialized content and publishing companies. Our diverse members provide the critical data, content, and information that drives the global economy, informs financial networks, connects learners and educators, and drives innovation. Learn more at siia.net.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning is a PreK–12 digital learning solutions company that ignites learning breakthroughs by designing forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology to drive student growth. Imagine Learning serves more than 10 million students and partners with more than half the school districts nationwide. Imagine Learning’s flagship products include Imagine Edgenuity®, online courseware and virtual school services solutions; supplemental and intervention solutions for literacy, language, mathematics, robotics, and coding; and high-quality, digital-first core curriculum, including Illustrative Mathematics®, EL Education®, and Odell Education®—all on the Imagine Learning Classroom—and Twig Science®. Read more about Imagine Learning’s digital solutions at imaginelearning.com.

April 19, 2022 8:00 am

Imagine Learning Taps Speech Recognition Technology to Help Educators Quickly and Accurately Assess Reading and Language Skills

On the heels of a successful pilot across the country, Imagine Learning partners with SoapBox Labs, the leading developer of speech recognition technology designed just for kids.

Scottsdale, Ariz. APRIL 19, 2022 – Imagine Learning, whose literacy solutions are used by millions of students across the U.S., today announced a new partnership with SoapBox Labs, the Dublin-based speech recognition company that powers joyful learning and play experiences for kids. Beginning this summer, Imagine Learning’s Language & Literacy program will include Fluent Reader+, a new tool powered by SoapBox’s voice technology, giving educators a seamless, scalable and more accurate approach to assessments of students’ reading and language learning progress.  

Voice-enabled tools save educators time by replacing the cumbersome, manual assessment of students’ reading and language acquisition with an approach that is reliable, accurate, and automated. The feedback loop created by the SoapBox voice engine also makes it easier to monitor progress, giving teachers more frequent and better insights into where students need support on their literacy and language journey.

“We’ve long imagined the possibility of speech recognition technology to help teachers make the most of their time in the classroom,” said Jeff Pendleton, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Supplemental and Intervention at Imagine Learning. “But most speech engines have been designed primarily for adults and don’t work well for kids. The results of our pilot with SoapBox’s voice engine show that it not only works accurately for children, but also for a diversity of accents, dialects, and learning abilities. This is exciting for us and for educators everywhere.” 

Imagine Language & Literacy is an award-winning adaptive learning program that accelerates literacy and English language development for students in grades PreK–6. More than 20,000 educators log in to the program daily and 65% of student users are emergent bilinguals. In a three-month pilot with 15,000 students from diverse backgrounds using SoapBox’s voice technology, Imagine Language & Literacy’s Fluent Reader+ was able to score oral reading fluency and language artifacts with a level of accuracy comparable to that of experienced educators in the classroom. Moreover, teachers in the pilot accessed the oral scoring tool 165 percent more often than their peers, reflecting their feedback that automation resulted in them using the tool more frequently and with more students.

“At SoapBox Labs, we pride ourselves on building speech recognition technology for kids that is accurate, inclusive, and fair. We are delighted to have been selected by Imagine Learning to service their user base of students, educators, and classrooms across the US,” said Martyn Farrows, CEO of SoapBox Labs. “This partnership is borne out of a focus on constant innovation and improvement, and we are excited about the opportunities for working together in the future.”

About SoapBox Labs

SoapBox Labs makes kids’ unique voices heard in the digital world. Our speech technology is proprietary and built from the ground up to empower children grades PreK-12 of every accent and stage of development to have joyful and immersive digital experiences. SoapBox powers voice-enabled learning and play experiences for third party clients in the education, gaming, media and entertainment industries. 

SoapBox is a privacy-first company and offers full transparency with respect to the processing and storage of voice data in full compliance with US COPPA and EU GDPR legislation. Voice data is never shared outside the company, sold to third parties or used for marketing or advertising purposes.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning is a PreK–12 digital learning solutions company that ignites learning breakthroughs by designing forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology to drive student growth. Imagine Learning serves more than 10 million students and partners with more than half the school districts nationwide. Imagine Learning’s flagship products include Imagine Edgenuity®, online courseware and virtual school services solutions; supplemental and intervention solutions for literacy, language, mathematics, robotics, and coding; and high-quality, digital-first core curriculum, including Illustrative Mathematics®, EL Education®, and Odell Education®—all on the Imagine Learning Classroom—and Twig Science®. Read more about Imagine Learning’s digital solutions at imaginelearning.com.

April 12, 2022 9:30 am

Beyond the Screen

In an increasingly virtual world, online instructors find ways to establish deep connections with students as they support them in reaching their goals.

A first grader tells the class about a tooth that she not only lost but swallowed; a fifth grader blossoms when she’s encouraged to incorporate her artwork in her assignments; with some extra help, a second grader progresses from reading below to reading at grade level — all with the support of a teacher whom they’ve never met in person. Online instruction might sound impersonal, but Imagine Learning Instructional Services’ virtual instructors create connections through special moments just like a teacher would in a physical classroom. As Tracy Regula, an elementary instructional supervisor, puts it, “the bonds [between teacher and student] go beyond the screen.” 

“I am motivated to be a person that is… a safe place and a loving place where they feel comfortable and confident… exploring, learning new things, and trying things that are hard.”

Erin Schwab, Virtual Instructor

Erin Schwab, Virtual Instructor

These special bonds are what keep our virtual teachers logging in day after day. “Not all days are easy… and all teachers know that, whether you’re brick and mortar or virtual,” but K–5 teacher, Erin Schwab is motivated to “be a person that is… a safe place and a loving place where they feel comfortable and confident… exploring, learning new things, and trying things that are hard.” Fellow K–5 teacher, Diamond Singh loves watching her students learn and is energized by the “ah-ha” moments when she can visibly see “the moment when they get it.” 

Lightbulb moments like these are part of multiple-subject teacher, Kathryn DeGioia’s “why” — the reason she became an educator. She also acknowledges the impact her own teachers had on her and wants to “pay it forward” by getting her students excited about learning. Being inspired by teachers seems to be a common thread among current educators, as secondary Spanish teacher, Debra Allison comments, “I want to empower my students. I want to give them all those great feels that I received when I was a student.”

While a lot of teachers are inspired by educators from their past, there are also plenty of less traditional routes to the career. Tracy struggled in school, but it was watching her daughter experience similar difficulties that inspired her to look for a way to help “students learn to their fullest ability.” Secondary science teacher, Dr. Kettyah Chhak had maybe an even less traditional path, starting as a scientific researcher. She responded to a need for math and science teachers, thinking it would be nice to try something different for a couple years. But after a year of teaching, she was “hooked.”

This variety of backgrounds is so valuable, especially because of the varied reasons why students pursue an education online. From student-athletes to those who have a medical need to those who need to make up credits for graduation, virtual instruction allows students to achieve all their goals. “Our students just have such a wide variety of backgrounds and reasons why they’re doing online,” remarks Kettyah, “so I try not to make any assumptions ever… I find I learn so much more about my students that way.”

“It awakened me as a person, [thinking] ‘Who are these students and why are they using this platform? And how can I help them?’ All of that is just so invigorating.’”

Debra Allison, Virtual Instructor

Debra Allison, Virtual Instructor

Debra sees the diversity as a welcome challenge: “I mean, yes, I teach Spanish, [but] I can really be teaching anything — I’m really teaching the students… Here at Imagine Learning our students are so varied. It awakened me as a person, [thinking] ‘Who are these students and why are they using this platform? And how can I help them?’ All of that is just so invigorating.

Heterogeneity is definitely not exclusive to the virtual classroom, nor are the tasks that make up a virtual instructor’s daily to-do list: responding to emails, meeting with students, grading, grading, and more grading. What is unique to the virtual classroom is the flexibility for both student and teacher. The varied reasons for choosing to learn virtually often come down to a need for school to adapt to their schedule, not the other way around. While this adaptability is convenient for students, it becomes powerful for teachers, as they have the ability to rearrange their day to focus on the students who need extra support at that moment. Debra finds that she is able to be the best teacher for each of her students because she can focus her time “where it really matters most.” 

The ability to focus on the individual student is why, though it might seem unlikely, the student-teacher relationship can still flourish in a virtual environment. Tracy said that this was one of her worries when transitioning to teaching virtually, if she would be able to create the same type of bonds with her students that she did face to face. What she found, actually, is that it is possible and “those bonds might even be a little bit stronger” than when she was teaching in person. She credits this to the focus she can give to individuals. While she was able to meet with students one-on-one when teaching in person, Tracy remarks that she was always keeping one eye on the rest of her class. But “you don’t have to do that in the virtual world. And so, you’re really able to give them all of you, instead of part of you.” 

Meet the Educators

Dr. Kettyah Chhak
Dr. Kettyah Chhak
Kathryn DeGioia
Kathryn DeGioia
Tracy Regula
Tracy Regula
Diamond Singh
Diamond Singh

One of the tell-tale signs of a meaningful teacher-student connection is when former students drop by to visit their past teachers. These visits reinforce the bond and also let teachers see the fruits of their labor as they learn how their student is continuing to thrive as they move through school and life. These drop-ins may seem impossible in the virtual classroom, but Kathryn says that’s not actually the case. She has a student who is no longer in her class who “periodically emails [her saying], ‘How are you?’ and ‘I miss you’ and ‘Thank you so much for all your help, last year. I don’t think I would have passed fourth grade last year if you hadn’t helped me.’ and it’s just sweet. In a brick-and-mortar school, these would be the students who stopped in your classroom.”  

In both the physical and virtual worlds, it is all about our connections with others. The bond a student feels with their teacher can be the difference that inspires them to succeed — and for our virtual teachers, these bonds extend far beyond the computer screen.

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April 8, 2022 8:00 am

Imagine Learning Rounds Out Full K-12 Math Suite of Products with “All Green” Scores from EdReports

Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics K-5 Completes Full Math Portfolio with EdReports’ Distinction

Scottsdale, Ariz., APRIL 8, 2022 – Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving 10 million students in more than half the school districts nationwide, today announced that Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics K-5 (formerly LearnZillion) has received near-perfect ratings by EdReports, an independent nonprofit designed to improve education through evidence-based reviews of K-12 instructional materials. These new ratings complete Imagine Learning’s entire “all green” K-12 core mathematics series.

Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics® K-12 is a problem-based IM-Certified curriculum that is designed to provide conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, strategic competence, adaptive reasoning, and a productive disposition. Students learn by doing, working their way through problems in both mathematical and real-world contexts, and constructing arguments using precise language. With this new rating, Illustrative Mathematics for all grades has met EdReports’ expectations for all three gateways: Focus & Coherence, Rigor & Mathematical Practices, and Usability.

EdReports provides independent reviews of instructional materials designed to improve Grades K-12 education. The EdReports rubric supports a sequential review process through the three gateways. Green ratings indicate that a curriculum meets expectations for each gateway of the EdReports review system. Illustrative Mathematics K-5 scored green on all three gateways and received perfect scores for two of the three gateways.

“We strive to provide all students the best access to grade-level mathematics with Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics,” said Terry Gilligan, Vice President & General Manager, Core Curriculum. “Receiving all greens from EdReports is a great honor and energizes our team to continue to provide the most innovative and effective solutions to teachers and students.”

“We are proud to see Imagine Learning’s Illustrative Mathematics Certified version of our grades K-5 curriculum pass EdReports’ criteria for Focus & Coherence, Rigor & Balance, and Usability with flying colors,” said Dr. William McCallum, CEO and co-founder of Illustrative Mathematics.

Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics, formerly LearnZillion, delivers a digital-first classroom experience, which enables teachers to create a student-centered, cohesive learning environment, based on research and driven by data that fully leverages the impact of high-quality curricula. As an IM-Certified partner, Imagine Learning collaborates with the Illustrative Mathematics team every step of the way by enhancing the curricula through an immersive experience with digital and print resources, including ready-to-go, customizable, and assignable lesson cards; virtual manipulatives and interactive math tools that foster mathematical practices; digital tasks, practice, and assessment that provide real-time feedback and data to inform instructional decisions; and live synchronous instruction virtually with LiveLearn.

About Illustrative Mathematics

Illustrative Mathematics is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics. Learn more at IllustrativeMathematics.org.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning is a PreK–12 digital learning solutions company that ignites learning breakthroughs by designing forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology to drive student growth. Imagine Learning serves more than 10 million students and partners with more than half the school districts nationwide. Imagine Learning’s flagship products include Imagine Edgenuity®, online courseware and virtual school services solutions; supplemental and intervention solutions for literacy, language, mathematics, robotics, and coding; and high-quality, digital-first core curriculum, including Illustrative Mathematics®, EL Education®, and Odell Education®—all on the Imagine Learning Classroom—and Twig Science®. Read more about Imagine Learning’s digital solutions at imaginelearning.com.