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Tag: K12 Education

  • Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Announces Winners of 6th Annual Civics Challenge

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    Hundreds of civics education entries submitted from middle, high school students nationwide


    PHOENIX, February 28, 2025 (Newswire.com)
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    The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy is pleased to announce the ten winners of the 6th Annual Civics Challenge. This online civics competition, open to students in grades 6 through 12, invites them to choose a civics education topic and express their knowledge through an essay, short video, or original song.

    “We are amazed by the knowledge, creativity and talent these students have demonstrated,” Institute President and CEO Sarah Suggs said. “Justice O’Connor was committed to civics education and the tremendous interest in our Civics Challenge is inspiring as we look to future generations to lead our nation. We congratulate all of the winners and honorable mention recipients for their commitment to civics.”

    The winners of the middle and high school categories are listed alphabetically below. Each student earned a $500 cash prize.

    Middle School Winners:

    • Hunter C., 7th Grade, Buffalo Grove, Illinois

    • Ilyannie G., 8th Grade, Tacoma, Washington

    • James F., 7th Grade, Phoenix, Arizona

    • Silas H., 8th Grade, West Chester, Pennsylvania

    • Yuna J., 8th Grade, Moorestown, New Jersey

    High School Winners:

    • Jonathan C., 11th Grade, Phoenix, Arizona

    • Maddox L., 12th Grade, Roswell, Georgia

    • Rory D., 12th Grade, Simi Valley, California

    • Shai R., 11th Grade, Burlingame, California

    • Tucker E., 9th Grade, Westport, Connecticut

    The Institute created a brief highlights video featuring clips showcasing the prize-winning students’ talent.

    In addition, the Institute is pleased to commend the following honorable mentions in each category.

    Middle School Honorable Mentions:

    • David U., 8th Grade, Manhattan Beach, California

    • David W., 8th Grade, Desoto, Texas

    • Elane F., 8th Grade, Laguna Niguel, California

    • Maria B., 8th Grade, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

    • Sonya V., 8th Grade, Parisippany, New Jersey

    High School Honorable Mentions:

    • Amelia N., 9th Grade, Stamford, Connecticut

    • Frances A., 12th Grade, Napa, California

    • Laila S., 11th Grade, Washington, D.C.

    • Matilda F., 9th Grade, Montpelier, Vermont

    • Naina D., 11th Grade, San Jose, California

    • Ronan P., 12th Grade, Metuchen, New Jersey

    • Rudra P., 12th Grade, Tampa, Florida

    • Travis D., 11th Grade, Mazomanie, Wisconsin

    Winning entries and additional information on the Civics Challenge and other Institute programs are available at oconnorinstitute.org/occwinners. Details for the next Civics Challenge will be announced in September 2025.

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    About the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy

    Founded in 2009 by retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the O’Connor Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan 501(c)(3), continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance civil discourse, civic engagement, and civics education. The Institute’s programs serve individuals of all ages from 50 states and six continents through educational digital platforms and events, as well as original research. The Institute also catalogs the life and work of the first female Supreme Court Justice through the Sandra Day O’Connor Digital Library. Additionally, the Institute is the conservator of her former home, O’Connor House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit OConnorInstitute.org to learn more.

    Source: Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy

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  • Level Up Village and the Players Trust Partner to Launch the Players Exchange

    Level Up Village and the Players Trust Partner to Launch the Players Exchange

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    TARRYTOWN, N.Y., October 2, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Level Up Village (LUV), a global collaboration program from Language Testing International (LTI), and the Players Trust, the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association, are excited to announce the launch of The Players Exchange, a free, innovative youth development program aimed at empowering students through project-based learning and global collaboration.

    The Players Exchange offers students a transformative experience that features exclusive insights from Major League Baseball Players. Throughout the program, students engage in various tasks and teamwork challenges, sharing their progress via video-based exchanges with partner classrooms. As they complete these tasks, students explore the diverse cultures and values that shape our global community. With hands-on activities, guided discussions, and the involvement of MLB Players, participants develop and refine essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, teamwork, and collaboration. 

    “This program and alliance with LTI demonstrate how a collaboration creates exponential value for those served. By harnessing the power of sport with cutting-edge approaches to learning, we hope to further inspire curiosity and a love of learning in students here and abroad,” said the Players Trust Director, Amy Hever. 

    Program Highlights:

    • Exclusive MLB Player Insights: Major League Baseball Players share experiences and teamwork lessons with students, providing inspiration and guidance throughout the program. 
    • Global Collaboration: Students from around the world work together to solve team-building challenges that foster a deeper understanding of cultures and values that shape our world.
    • 21st Century Skills Development: The program focuses on the development of critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and leadership, equipping students with skills needed for future success in sports, school, and life.

    “Through Level Up Village, our mission is to foster global connections and empower students with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Partnering with the Players Trust allows us to take this mission to the next level by bringing the values of teamwork and cultural understanding into the classroom. The Players Exchange empowers students and educators to engage in meaningful collaboration and emerge as compassionate leaders,” said Tiziana Aime, the CEO of Language Testing International. 

    The Players Exchange is a free program designed to make a lasting global impact. For more information or to sign up, please visit www.levelupvillage.com/players.

    About Level Up Village

    Level Up Village (LUV) is a program developed by Language Testing International (LTI) to globalize the classroom by facilitating collaboration between students from around the world. Through LUV exchanges, students enhance their understanding of other cultures, strengthen their intercultural communication skills, gain empathy, and develop into global citizens.

    About the Players Trust Established in 1996, the Players Trust is the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association. Driven by Players and inspired by the game, the Players Trust provides programs and resources that champion their individual and collective passions towards a common goal: Making a positive impact on the world and inspiring others to do the same. For additional information, please visit www.playerstrust.org.

    For press inquiries, please contact:
    Gosia Jaros-White, Director of Academic Sales and Marketing

    gwhite@languagetesting.com 

    Source: Language Testing International

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  • New Orleans to Host 34th Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference

    New Orleans to Host 34th Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference

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    BALLSTON SPA, N.Y., July 9, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    The National Dropout Prevention Center will be hosting its 34th Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference in the vibrant and culturally rich city of New Orleans from October 14-16, 2024. This year’s conference promises to be an extraordinary experience, building upon the achievements of its previous gatherings that have united hundreds of passionate professionals dedicated to enhancing graduation rates and ensuring success for all students. 

    Designed for educators, administrators, counselors, and all stakeholders invested in student well-being, this conference offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into cutting-edge research, evidence-based strategies, and innovative approaches to dropout prevention. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into topics such as: 

    • Classroom to Boardroom Strategies: Bridging the gap between educational theory and practical implementation to maximize student outcomes.
    • Future Challenges to Graduation Rates: Identifying emerging trends and developing proactive solutions to address potential obstacles to student success.
    • Supporting Resilient Educators and School Districts: Fostering a culture of support and well-being for educators, ensuring they have the tools and resources to effectively serve their students.
    • Creating Trauma-Skilled™ Schools: Implementing trauma-informed practices to create safe and supportive learning environments for all students.

    “The challenges we face in education are not confined to our individual classrooms or districts. We are a national community of educators, united in our shared goal to ensure the success of every student,” said Dr. Bill Daggett, Founder and Executive Chair of Successful Practices Network (SPN), which includes the National Dropout Prevention Center as part of its continuum of services. “This conference is an opportunity to come together, learn from each other, and leave with renewed optimism and concrete strategies to support all students.” 

    Participants will also have the unique opportunity to earn credits towards National Dropout Prevention Specialist Certification and Trauma-Skilled™ Specialist Certification, further solidifying their expertise and commitment to student success. By attending this conference, educators will join a nationwide network of like-minded professionals, including superintendents, social workers, teachers, graduation coaches, and more, all committed to engaging, supporting, and sustaining students through their academic journey.

    “Our hope is that attendees will return to their schools and communities equipped with actionable strategies, innovative ideas, and a renewed passion for creating positive change,” said Dr. Robert Peters, Chief Academic Officer for the National Dropout Prevention Center. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the 34th Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference will empower educators to make a lasting impact on the lives of their students and contribute to a brighter future for all. 

    For more information, including session details, registration information, and hotel accommodations, click HERE or visit our official event page at https://qrco.de/ndpcpr.

    Source: National Dropout Prevention Center

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  • SPN Finalizes Future-Focused Schools Conference

    SPN Finalizes Future-Focused Schools Conference

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    BALLSTON SPA, N.Y., January 31, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    The Successful Practices Network (SPN) is finalizing preparations for its upcoming Future-Focused Schools Conference, an event set to bring together the nation’s most accomplished and innovative K-12 schools and districts. This conference will highlight significant achievements and methods at the classroom, building, and district levels, providing educators and administrators with a unique opportunity to learn from top-tier educational institutions.

    Scheduled for June 24 – June 26, 2024, in Washington, D.C., the conference will feature keynote and general sessions that address contemporary challenges in education, such as Artificial Intelligence, Future-Focused Instruction, Attendance, Mental Health, changes in Student Assessments and more. The conference is tailored to engage a broad spectrum of education professionals, from classroom teachers to school boards, in the implementation of transformative strategies.

    Dr. Bill Daggett’s Vision for FFSC24:

    SPN Founder and Chairmen Dr. Bill Daggett’s vision for the conference is not just to showcase the work, methods, practices, and accomplishments of the nation’s most accomplished and innovative K-12 schools, but also to spread that knowledge in a way that attendees can learn and adapt those practices in their own schools or districts. “The conference is a testament to our ongoing mission to drive change in K-12 education. It’s a platform where professionals come together not only to share, but also to create actionable plans for student success,” said Dr. Daggett. Recognized for his role in advancing preK-12 education, Dr. Daggett is the creator of the Rigor/Relevance Framework TM and the Future-Focused Success Framework TM, key components in the nation’s school reform efforts.

    A Showcase of Nation’s Most Forward-Thinking School Districts:

    The school districts highlighted below represent some of the many districts featured at the conference. These institutions exemplify the innovative and effective practices that are driving success in K-12 education today. 

    Naperville School District 203, Illinois:
    At the forefront of educational innovation, Naperville School District 203 exemplifies academic achievement with a focus on holistic student development. This district has achieved a 98% graduation rate and is known for its commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom. 

    Parkway School District, Missouri:
    Parkway School District stands as a model for inclusive and quality education, highlighted by its top-rated high schools and an impressive 92% graduation rate. The district emphasizes a supportive learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of its students. 

    Mason City School District, Ohio:
    Mason City School District is distinguished by its high academic standards and a culturally enriched learning atmosphere, achieving a 95% graduation rate and top rankings at both state and national levels. The district offers a broad spectrum of extracurricular opportunities, contributing to the well-rounded development of its students. 

    The conference will also include sessions from a diverse group of knowledgeable professionals in K-12 education. Among these are Dr. Dave Schuler, Executive Director of AASA, Rachael McClain, Chief of Staff at Collegiate Edu-Nation and Linda Jordan, a Senior Learning Consultant and an expert in neuroscience and education. The most up-to-date presenter roster can be viewed here.

    FFSC24 is set to be an enlightening and enriching event, offering a platform for engaging with educational thought leaders, sharing best practices, and developing new strategies for student success. It presents an ideal opportunity for educators and school leaders to gain insights and inspiration for shaping the future of education.

    Conference and registration info can be found here.

    For any media inquiries related to FFSC24, please contact afanitzi@spnetwork.org. 

    Source: Successful Practices Network

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  • Think Academy Redefines Online STEM Education: Introducing Advanced Features & Strengthened Curriculum for K-12

    Think Academy Redefines Online STEM Education: Introducing Advanced Features & Strengthened Curriculum for K-12

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    From an Upgraded Learning App to Enhanced Course Products: Think Academy Pushes Boundaries to Cultivate the Next Generation of American STEM Young Talents


    CUPERTINO, Calif., October 23, 2023 (Newswire.com)
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    Think Academy, a trailblazer in online STEM education, is transforming the learning landscape for K-12 students across 51 U.S. states. With courses from Pre-K to high school, the academy’s mission is to spark interest in STEM and cultivate America’s future talents（visit thethinkacademy.com for more details).

    In October, Think Academy unveiled its latest online course product, aiming to enhance every stage of the learning journey. Key upgrades, as shared by higher elementary grade head Rongsheng Wang and middle school curriculum head Jiani Hou, include:

    1. Parental App: This new feature facilitates real-time communication with teachers and customer service. Parents can now monitor academic progress, including class reports, homework submissions, and course details.

    2. Mistake Tracker and Collection: The new product boasts an automatic mistakes collection feature, which gathers questions and knowledge points students might have missed during their Think Academy journey. This encompasses pre-class preparations, in-class learning, post-class assignments, and periodic evaluations, making revisions more streamlined and efficient.

    3. Video Tutorials for Homework: Post-class assignments now come with detailed video explanations. Upon submission, students can instantly access these tutorials, allowing for immediate corrections, real-time feedback, and a complete learning loop.

    On the content front, Haoyuan Li and Yujun Wang, responsible for the elementary curriculum, highlighted the renewed focus on fostering an interest in mathematics and solidifying foundational concepts. Meanwhile, Jiani Hou and Yunhui Wang, overseeing the middle and high school curriculum, emphasized the dual-teacher model. This approach ensures students benefit from the expertise of a content teacher while also receiving personalized attention from a local teacher. Notably, the Honors system has produced 47 AIME Qualifiers and over a hundred AMC 8 Winners. The Advanced system has facilitated students from 27 states to join advanced classes in their local middle schools.

    Looking ahead, Think Academy’s upcoming high school STEM courses aim to fortify students’ scientific foundations before entering college, empowering them with the confidence to pursue STEM majors.

    In essence, Think Academy’s relentless pursuit of excellence in online STEM education is setting new benchmarks and shaping the future of education in the U.S.

    Source: Think Academy U.S.

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  • Building Wings Acquires Knowledge Unlimited

    Building Wings Acquires Knowledge Unlimited

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    Press Release
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    Nov 14, 2022


    VOLO, Ill., November 14, 2022 (Newswire.com)
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    Building Wings™, a special education literacy curriculum company, has acquired Knowledge Unlimited®, a provider of supplementary learning materials. 

    Named after Don Johnston’s book Building Wings (2006), which details Johnston’s own struggles in the classroom, Building Wings™ provides evidence-based alternative literacy instruction resources to help educators deliver the best possible instruction for reading and writing for students with complex needs. Its curriculum includes Readtopia and First Author.

    Speaking about the value Knowledge Unlimited brings to the product offerings by Building Wings, Don Johnston, CEO, says, “In my own learning struggles, it wasn’t until I had a knowledge of the world that I was able to deeply comprehend what I was reading.” Building Wings’ curriculum centers on building background knowledge for learners. Johnston adds, “Knowledge Unlimited has been developing learning content for 40 years and will be essential to building a world knowledge foundation for our students.” 

    With this acquisition, Building Wings will continue to build its catalog of educator resources, including curriculum and instructional materials, to support teachers who balance a wide range of learning needs in the classroom. 

    About Building Wings
    Building Wings creates special education resources that help teachers support students in accomplishing learning breakthroughs. By putting the right tools in the hands of compassionate teachers and motivated educators, Building Wings believes that its curriculum helps unlock hidden potential. 

    About Knowledge Unlimited 
    Knowledge Unlimited’s mission is to provide high-quality supplementary learning materials that engage students, promote critical thinking, and build important background knowledge across the curriculum. It is best known for its innovative current events program, which helps educators lead discussions on national and international news and engage students in enriching material about the world in which they live.

    Source: Building Wings

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