http://www.cblohm.com Visibility Matters Wed, 19 Jun 2013 19:49:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-announces-expanded-professional-development-opportunities-at-iste/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-announces-expanded-professional-development-opportunities-at-iste/#comments Tue, 18 Jun 2013 20:21:30 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12971 Atomic Learning showcases its latest technology training at ISTE 2013 Annual Conference and Exhibition, held in San Antonio, June 23–26. The company will release six new technology training offerings to expand its resources of more than 250 education-specific software application and device tutorials. These additions highlight the most recent versions of popular programs, enabling teachers to master updated interfaces and features. Atomic Learning also will host a poster session, “It’s Not an iPad Initiative, It’s a Learning Initiative,” led by Carmen Garcia, director of instructional technology for McAllen ISD, Wednesday, June 26, at 11 a.m. CDT.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-announces-expanded-professional-development-opportunities-at-iste/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-and-learning-resources-announce-nowboard-winner/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-and-learning-resources-announce-nowboard-winner/#comments Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:52:36 +0000 Katie Waite http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12968 FundingFactory and Learning Resources announce the winner of the Set a Goal, Win a now!Board giveaway. Participants who set a fundraising goal and created a public page at FundingFactory.com between Sept. 1, 2012 and Oct. 31, 2012 were entered to win now!Board Portable Interactive Whiteboard Technology. In addition, participants who met or exceeded their fundraising goal by May 31, 2013, were given a second entry to double their chances of winning. Of the more than 364 FundingFactory participants who set a fundraising goal during the promotional period, and 38 participants who met or surpassed their goal, the Immanuel Christian School Parent Teacher Organization of Steens, Miss., won the coveted classroom technology.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-and-learning-resources-announce-nowboard-winner/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-debuts-bluetooth-speaker/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-debuts-bluetooth-speaker/#comments Wed, 12 Jun 2013 21:05:05 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12916 Califone today announces the launch of its Bluetooth Speaker (PA-BT30). The first speaker of its kind designed with presenters and teachers in mind features easy connectivity to any Bluetooth^®-enabled mobile device and computer. It supports whole class and group learning activities in the classroom, and high-quality presentations in any meeting setting. The speaker is compatible with a variety of mobile devices, including Android^® and iOS-based devices such as the Galaxy^®, iPhone^® and iPad^®. The speaker is designed for fast and easy classroom or meeting room setup, offering convenient connect-and-play audio streaming capabilities.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-debuts-bluetooth-speaker/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-launches-sis-integration-partners-with-clever/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-launches-sis-integration-partners-with-clever/#comments Tue, 11 Jun 2013 23:15:31 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12908 Schools can now sync rosters in their student information systems (SIS) with Learning.com through a new partnership with Clever. The integration ensures that educators and administrators will always have accurate, updated information in the Learning.com platform. Clever securely connects to a school’s SIS, pulls student enrollment rosters and demographic data, and automatically syncs that data with Learning.com. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-launches-sis-integration-partners-with-clever/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/as-popularity-of-online-research-grows-schools-turn-to-jones-eglobal-library/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/as-popularity-of-online-research-grows-schools-turn-to-jones-eglobal-library/#comments Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:14:31 +0000 Carie Breunig http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12903 According to the 2013 NMC Horizon Project Short List for Higher Education, “sense-making and the ability to assess the credibility of information are paramount” in a world where “information is everywhere.” Jones eGlobal Library cites the need for students to develop “information literacy” skills, given the vast amount of reliable and unreliable resources available online. “The need for easily accessible and curated content is key,” said Glenn Jones, CEO of eGlobal Library. “We help educators and students curate content and develop the information literacy skills necessary to succeed in school and professional environments.”]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/as-popularity-of-online-research-grows-schools-turn-to-jones-eglobal-library/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/cba-media-central-blazing-a-trail-to-iste-2013/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/cba-media-central-blazing-a-trail-to-iste-2013/#comments Mon, 10 Jun 2013 21:28:26 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12177 http://www.cblohm.com/news/cba-media-central-blazing-a-trail-to-iste-2013/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-announces-2013-national-speech-debate-tournament/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-announces-2013-national-speech-debate-tournament/#comments Fri, 07 Jun 2013 18:38:17 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12875 The National Forensic League announces its 2013 National Speech & Debate Tournament, June 16–21 in Birmingham, Ala. Nearly 4,000 middle and high school students from across the country and around the world will compete in speech and debate activities for a chance to win $200,000 worth of college scholarships. The Tournament marks the capstone of high school speech and debate activities for nearly 120,000 student members nationwide.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-announces-2013-national-speech-debate-tournament/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/las-vegas-downtown-project-contracts-school-specialty-in-development-of-new-school/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/las-vegas-downtown-project-contracts-school-specialty-in-development-of-new-school/#comments Wed, 05 Jun 2013 06:00:50 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12848 School Specialty will be the provider of innovative furniture, equipment and materials for the Las Vegas Downtown Project's new early childhood center, 9th Bridge School. In an initiative to revitalize downtown Las Vegas, the organizers have decided to put groundbreaking education at the forefront, making School Specialty products a natural complement to the school's vision.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/las-vegas-downtown-project-contracts-school-specialty-in-development-of-new-school/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-education-division-partners-with-iste-and-ubtech/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-education-division-partners-with-iste-and-ubtech/#comments Tue, 04 Jun 2013 20:16:47 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12854 The Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) announces new partnerships with two major education technology groups. Through the agreements, SIIA will have a presence at the UBTech and ISTE 2013 events held this month. The partnerships enable SIIA to extend the many benefits of its prominent Innovation Incubator Program. The Innovation Incubator Program is a peer-review competition that was created to help identify and support entrepreneurs in their development and distribution of innovative learning technologies. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-education-division-partners-with-iste-and-ubtech/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/kansas-school-district-chooses-skyward-student-management-suite/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/kansas-school-district-chooses-skyward-student-management-suite/#comments Thu, 30 May 2013 17:06:53 +0000 Katie Waite http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12830 Geary County Schools USD 475 in Kansas selected the Student Management Suite from Skyward, an industry leading K-12 school administrative software provider, to improve the management and analysis of student data throughout the district. Geary County Schools, which serve approximately 8,000 students, will now be able to integrate the student suite with its Skyward School Business Suite, allowing for a single, streamlined database solution. With Skyward, the district will benefit from a comprehensive web-based system that integrates attendance, grading, scheduling, food service, discipline and demographic information in one centralized system to minimize data entry and ensure accuracy.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/kansas-school-district-chooses-skyward-student-management-suite/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-takes-a-stand-against-bullying-with-raising-respect/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-takes-a-stand-against-bullying-with-raising-respect/#comments Thu, 30 May 2013 06:00:11 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12824 School Specialty, Inc. announces Raising Respect, a planner program that provides actionable tips to identify, intervene and address bullying in and out of school. The program is being developed through the company’s Premier brand. It enables students, educators and families to create a secure climate of achievement, and a place where students can learn in safety, empathy and belonging. It also empowers students to make safe choices, develop positive peer relations and prevent bullying using self-management, problem-solving and communication strategies.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-takes-a-stand-against-bullying-with-raising-respect/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-announces-second-annual-recycling-rumble-winners/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-announces-second-annual-recycling-rumble-winners/#comments Wed, 29 May 2013 19:48:04 +0000 Katie Waite http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12808 FundingFactory, the nation’s largest fundraising by recycling program for schools and nonprofits, announces the winners of the second annual ‘Recycling Rumble’. 537 winning schools and nonprofits overcame their opponents in each rumble match-up where they competed for two months to recycle the largest quantity of electronic waste (e-waste). The winning schools and nonprofits earned a 25 percent fundraising bonus, and the top recycler overall won an Apple^® iPad^®. This year’s top recycler was Manteca High School of Manteca, Calif., recycling 6,535 items and earning more than $3,200. In total, Recycling Rumble participants raised $148,305 and recycled a total of 217,524 items.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-announces-second-annual-recycling-rumble-winners/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-two-sessions-on-astrophotography/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-two-sessions-on-astrophotography/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 06:00:22 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12744 The Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access will host two online education conferences on astrophotography that highlight how scientific data helps tell the story of the universe through images. Joseph DePasquale and Mary Dussault from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory will present “Understanding Astrophotography: Where Science and Art Meet” Wednesday, June 12, at 1 p.m. EDT. Dussault, with Lindsay Bartholomew of the Miami Science Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, will present the second session, “Do-It-Yourself Astrophotography: Applications for the Classroom and Beyond,” Wednesday, July 10, at 4 p.m. EDT.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-two-sessions-on-astrophotography/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/6th-annual-flipped-conference-to-be-live-streamed-for-worldwide-access/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/6th-annual-flipped-conference-to-be-live-streamed-for-worldwide-access/#comments Tue, 21 May 2013 18:15:38 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12736 This year's Flipped Conference, held in Stillwater, Minn. June 18-19, will be streamed live to virtual attendees worldwide. Nearly 30 hours of content from four strands will be broadcast in their entirety. Archived sessions will also be available for six months after the conference. Keynote speakers include Jon Bergmann and Aaron Sams, the pioneers of Flipped Learning and co-authors of Flip Your Classroom: Reach Every Student in Every Class Every Day, and Ramsey Musallam, a chemistry teacher in San Francisco, TED speaker and author of the Cycles of Learning blog.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/6th-annual-flipped-conference-to-be-live-streamed-for-worldwide-access/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siias-2013-annual-ed-tech-industry-summit-explains-navigating-next/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siias-2013-annual-ed-tech-industry-summit-explains-navigating-next/#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 22:17:36 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12727 The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) last week held its 10th Annual Ed Tech Industry Summit, themed “Navigating Next,” in San Francisco. Attended by more than 350 educational technology leaders, the Summit featured strategies, cases studies, and success stories about best business practices on topics including game-based learning, going global and mobile, market data and trends, OER and commercial publishers, leveraging social media, and more.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siias-2013-annual-ed-tech-industry-summit-explains-navigating-next/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-honors-top-educators-with-teacher-of-the-year-award-sponsorship/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-honors-top-educators-with-teacher-of-the-year-award-sponsorship/#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 19:08:35 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12702 In conjunction with Teacher Appreciation Month, School Specialty, Inc. honors the 2013 National Physical Education Teachers of the Year (TOY). Sponsored exclusively by School Specialty brand Sportime and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) since the award’s inception in 1989, the Teachers of the Year program recognizes outstanding teaching performance and the ability to motivate today's youth to participate in a lifetime of physical activity. Click through to see this year's winners.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-honors-top-educators-with-teacher-of-the-year-award-sponsorship/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-launches-course-learning-center-for-student-management-suite/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-launches-course-learning-center-for-student-management-suite/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 18:56:14 +0000 Katie Waite http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12699 Skyward announces the release of its Course Learning Center, a new module that is fully integrated with its Student Management Suite. The Course Learning Center provides teachers and students with a simplified way to manage daily classroom activities and improve collaboration. The new module streamlines teacher access to the tools they need, enabling them to manage course resources, classroom discussions, digital lockers, assessments and grades in one location. Students can access the center to upload assignments, get teacher feedback on their work, and participate in conversations through discussion boards. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-launches-course-learning-center-for-student-management-suite/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/brainparade-receives-top-innovator-award/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/brainparade-receives-top-innovator-award/#comments Mon, 13 May 2013 06:16:45 +0000 Carie Breunig http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12677 Brain Parade's See.Touch.Learn. app, was voted Most Likely to Succeed during the Innovation Incubator Program held by the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). Brain Parade^®, a developer of learning solutions for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, presented the iPad app at the Ed Tech Industry Summit (ETIS) held in San Francisco.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/brainparade-receives-top-innovator-award/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-solutions-provider-school-specialty-becomes-principal-for-a-day-at-knoxville-tenn-school/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-solutions-provider-school-specialty-becomes-principal-for-a-day-at-knoxville-tenn-school/#comments Thu, 09 May 2013 06:00:42 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12573 School Specialty, Inc. announces its participation in the “Principal for a Day” program. The program, which is presented by Knox County Schools, brought together 88 business, government and community leaders who spread across the county’s schools to shadow principals and learn first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing public education today. Tim Hemans, School Specialty education solutions manager for Georgia and Tennessee, recently stepped into the role of Principal for a Day at Cedar Bluff Elementary in Knoxville, Tenn. Hemans went back to class to better understand the day-to-day activities of School Specialty customers – insights that will help inform product developments that make educators’ lives easier and improve student outcomes.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-solutions-provider-school-specialty-becomes-principal-for-a-day-at-knoxville-tenn-school/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-top-innovators-in-education-technology-3/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-top-innovators-in-education-technology-3/#comments Wed, 08 May 2013 21:24:52 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12643 SIIA this week recognized four education technology solutions with five key awards for their originality, innovation and industry promise. During SIIA's bi-annual Innovation Incubator Program, held in connection with this week's SIIA Ed Tech Industry Summit, simCEO and See.Touch.Learn. were voted by 350 attendees as being the Most Innovative and Most Likely to Succeed, respectively. Citelighter was voted runner-up for Most Innovative, and scrible was voted runner-up for Most Likely to Succeed. Citelighter also earned the Educator’s Choice Award based on votes from educators across the country.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-top-innovators-in-education-technology-3/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-named-siia-education-codie-award-winner-for-best-postsecondary-learning-solution-best-postsecondary-solution-and-best-education-solution/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-named-siia-education-codie-award-winner-for-best-postsecondary-learning-solution-best-postsecondary-solution-and-best-education-solution/#comments Wed, 08 May 2013 19:55:36 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12636 Atomic Learning earned more honors than any other finalist at the 2013 CODiE Awards presented by the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) on Monday, May 6, during SIIA’s annual Ed Tech Industry Summit. Atomic Learning’s Tech Skills Training Plus won two of the night’s biggest awards, Best Postsecondary Solution and Best Education Solution, as well as Best Postsecondary Learning Solution in its entry category. Atomic Learning offers training on more than 250 education-specific software applications and devices to simplify campus technology integration, training and support.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-named-siia-education-codie-award-winner-for-best-postsecondary-learning-solution-best-postsecondary-solution-and-best-education-solution/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-codie-award-winners-for-education-technology-industry-2/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-codie-award-winners-for-education-technology-industry-2/#comments Tue, 07 May 2013 18:07:12 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12578 Late last night, SIIA announced the winners of the 2013 CODiE Awards in education technology. Overall, 28 winners were recognized for their products and services deployed specifically for the education technology market. All of the education technology nominated products and services were first reviewed by a group of tech-savvy educators from across the nation, whose evaluations determined 82 finalists. Click through for the list of winners.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-codie-award-winners-for-education-technology-industry-2/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-adds-royal-seating-brand-to-its-proprietary-product-family/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-adds-royal-seating-brand-to-its-proprietary-product-family/#comments Tue, 07 May 2013 06:00:11 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12565 School Specialty now owns full rights to the brands and the exclusive distribution rights to the Royal Seating line of K-12 furniture. Royal Seating will now be exclusively marketed and sold by School Specialty, expanding the company’s proprietary Furniture & Equipment stable of products. Royal Seating serves thousands of K-12 schools throughout the country and has furnished classrooms for more than 45 years with chairs and desks available in a variety of styles, sizes and colors to fit a wide range of classroom needs.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-adds-royal-seating-brand-to-its-proprietary-product-family/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-provides-support-to-startups-with-inaugural-ed-market-101/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-provides-support-to-startups-with-inaugural-ed-market-101/#comments Thu, 02 May 2013 20:24:05 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12517 SIIA announces its inaugural Ed Market 101, held Tuesday, May 7, adjacent to the Ed Tech Industry Summit at The Palace Hotel in San Francisco. The Pearson Foundation and Whitestone Communications are lead sponsors for the daylong event, which features sessions that will help startups learn more about their customers: who they really are, how to reach them and what it takes to “sell” to them. “Through Ed Market 101, startups that are new to the industry can explore opportunities the market presents while connecting and collaborating with some of the education market’s leading thinkers,” said Karen Billings, vice president of the SIIA Education Division.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-provides-support-to-startups-with-inaugural-ed-market-101/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-enhances-gradebook-to-support-standards-based-academic-evaluation/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-enhances-gradebook-to-support-standards-based-academic-evaluation/#comments Thu, 02 May 2013 07:00:13 +0000 Katie Waite http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12512 Skyward announces an enhancement to their Gradebook, a module of its Student Management Suite which gives educators the ability to measure student achievement on national and state curriculum standards. The Skyward Gradebook now enables educators to connect academic standards to individual questions within online assessments, allowing them to easily evaluate the students’ understanding of specific standards and benchmarks. The enhancement gives parents, students and school districts a clear picture of student progress. Through the Gradebook, teachers can keep students and parents apprised of how the homework aligns to the standards and areas of academic shortfalls that may need more attention.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-enhances-gradebook-to-support-standards-based-academic-evaluation/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-learning-center-helps-students-learn-safe-listening-volume/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-learning-center-helps-students-learn-safe-listening-volume/#comments Wed, 01 May 2013 20:46:42 +0000 Katie Waite http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12496 Califone International, Inc., a long-time supporter of Better Hearing & Speech Month in May, announces the launch of the Spirit & Sound Alert Learning Center (1776PLCG-06), the first learning center to help prevent student hearing loss by alerting students and teachers when the volume exceeds unsafe levels. The learning center combines the company’s Spirit (1776) multimedia player/recorder, six (2924AVG) headphones and a Sound Alert (1285G) jackbox into a ready-to-order system. When audio is played through the 10-position jackbox, one of its two LEDs on top of the jackbox will be illuminated. The green light indicates a “safe” volume that’s lower than 85 decibels. The red light denotes an “unsafe” volume that exceeds 85 decibels, warning students and teachers the potential for hearing loss exists.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-learning-center-helps-students-learn-safe-listening-volume/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-honors-two-education-technology-industry-veterans/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-honors-two-education-technology-industry-veterans/#comments Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:33:03 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12449 During the upcoming Ed Tech Industry Summit held in San Francisco May 5-7, SIIA will honor Dr. Dustin (Dusty) Hull Heuston, chairman of the Waterford Institute, and Lillian Kellogg, vice president of client services for Education Networks of America (ENA). Heuston will receive the Education Lifetime Achievement Award, and Kellogg will receive the Ed Tech Impact Award.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-honors-two-education-technology-industry-veterans/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-offers-new-self-serve-system/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-offers-new-self-serve-system/#comments Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:09:44 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12436 Shmoop introduces a self-serve system for easy account creation and instant access to its engaging and humorous study materials. The new system provides quick credit card or PayPal setup, as well as topic reviews, practice drills and full-length practice exams. Shmoop prepares students by giving them helpful tips for the day before and day of the actual test and advice for what areas to focus on. For teachers and administrators, Shmoop offers tools that can be used to track student progress, review problem areas, and keep tabs on usage.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-offers-new-self-serve-system/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/brain-parade-adds-community-feature-for-enhanced-user-sharing-experience/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/brain-parade-adds-community-feature-for-enhanced-user-sharing-experience/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 18:39:46 +0000 Carie Breunig http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12398 Brain Parade, a developer of learning solutions for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, announces the newest update to the See.Touch.Learn. free iPad application that provides access to the growing Brain Parade Community. The Community, available by subscription, allows users to download and share visual learning libraries created by thousands of other users around the world.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/brain-parade-adds-community-feature-for-enhanced-user-sharing-experience/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-and-scholastic-announce-go-green-sweepstakes-winner/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-and-scholastic-announce-go-green-sweepstakes-winner/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:31:57 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12369 FundingFactory, the nation’s largest fundraising by recycling program for schools and nonprofits, together with Scholastic, announce the winner of the “Go Green” Sweepstakes. Susan Jones of Yucaipa Christian School in Yucaipa, Calif. is the recipient of the $5,000 prize, and plans to use the money to expand the school’s green initiatives, such as restoring and protecting the historic land where the school resides. More than 1,400 educators throughout the country entered for a chance to win the sweepstakes by explaining ways they would use the money to support eco-friendly programs and practices at their school. FundingFactory launched sweepstakes in October 2012 to raise awareness about the significance of implementing eco-friendly school initiatives and the impact of recycling electronic waste.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-and-scholastic-announce-go-green-sweepstakes-winner/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-named-finalist-in-siia-innovation-incubator-program/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-named-finalist-in-siia-innovation-incubator-program/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2013 23:00:55 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12366 Shmoop has been named a finalist in SIIA’s Innovation Incubator Program. The company has been recognized for its extensive product offering including Shmoopsterpiece Theater, learning guides and test prep materials. The association’s program is designed to shine the spotlight on companies that are excelling in educating students through the use of new technologies, and to recognize and reward companies for valuable accomplishments.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-named-finalist-in-siia-innovation-incubator-program/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-proposes-plan-to-meet-e-rate-program-demands/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-proposes-plan-to-meet-e-rate-program-demands/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:12:06 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12363 Funds For Learning announces its proposal to modernize the E-rate program. The release of the Funds For Learning E-rate 2.0 Proposal comes on the heels of the USAC demand estimate for Funding Year 2013. Total demand is estimated at $4.98 billion, the third highest in the history of the E-rate program. The Funds For Learning E-rate 2.0 Proposal restructures the current program, calling for an increase in available funds while basing amount of monies received on a per-student basis. The plan also enables schools to choose their own priorities for E-rate funds.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-proposes-plan-to-meet-e-rate-program-demands/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/brain-parade-receives-accolades-for-innovation/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/brain-parade-receives-accolades-for-innovation/#comments Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:15:17 +0000 Carie Breunig http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12330 Brain Parade has been chosen as one of ten Innovation Incubator participants by the Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). The product of note is its iPad app, See.Touch.Learn., a visual learning and assessment system that improves social interaction and communication skills of students with special needs. The ten participants will present at the upcoming Ed Tech Industry Summit (ETIS), May 5-7 in San Francisco.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/brain-parade-receives-accolades-for-innovation/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-has-ap-tests-quaking-in-boots/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-has-ap-tests-quaking-in-boots/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 22:42:59 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12278 With the AP exam season right around the corner, Shmoop is offering students everything they need to be prepared. Shmoop’s AP Guides provide diagnostic exams to help students identify subject areas where they need more practice and updated answer explanations. The company features guides for every AP exam, and all of the online resources are updated to meet the 2013 AP exam requirements.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-has-ap-tests-quaking-in-boots/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-technology-pioneers-announced-as-participants-for-siia-innovation-incubator-program-2/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-technology-pioneers-announced-as-participants-for-siia-innovation-incubator-program-2/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 05:41:28 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12269 The Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) announces participants, and an alternate, for its Innovation Incubator Program. The program will be held during the annual flagship Ed Tech Industry Summit, May 5-7, at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. Ten products and services will be featured during the event, and awards will be presented to the Most Innovative and Most Likely to Succeed based on votes of conference attendees. The Educator’s Choice Award will also be presented based on votes from educators and administrators from around the U.S. The SIIA Innovation Incubator Program identifies and supports entrepreneurs in their development and distribution of innovative learning technologies.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-technology-pioneers-announced-as-participants-for-siia-innovation-incubator-program-2/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/benesse-america-offers-exclusive-pilot-program-for-educators/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/benesse-america-offers-exclusive-pilot-program-for-educators/#comments Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:08:24 +0000 Carie Breunig http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12260 StraightAce Learning, a powerful digital learning system for middle school students, is offering one-month pilot programs of StraightAce Math to educators. StraightAce Math is an interactive, multi-platform math tool that creates excitement, prepares students for high school and builds a strong mathematical foundation. Educators can incorporate the StraightAce Learning math system into classroom activities or use as an effective homework management tool for their entire class. Benesse America staff will be on hand at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) 2013 Annual Meeting in Denver, April 17-20, to provide live product demonstrations and discuss effective methods for educators to incorporate the system into classroom lessons or homework assignments.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/benesse-america-offers-exclusive-pilot-program-for-educators/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-announces-opening-of-online-store/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-announces-opening-of-online-store/#comments Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:26:34 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12254 Shmoop, a publisher of digital curriculum and test prep, announces the opening of its online store. The Shmoop “Shtuff Store” offers a variety of products, including sweatshirts, mugs and iPhone cases. Shmoop will also provide incentives for users with “Shmoints,” which are points that are awarded for achieving or completing various tasks on Shmoop.com. In the Shtuff Store, users will eventually receive discounted prices on merchandise by cashing in their Shmoints.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-announces-opening-of-online-store/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-opens-the-doors-of-its-new-math-shack/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-opens-the-doors-of-its-new-math-shack/#comments Wed, 10 Apr 2013 23:59:51 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12125 Shmoop, a publisher of digital curriculum and test prep, now offers a new SAT Math practice tool called Math Shack. The tool features more than 200 types of problems that will hone a user’s skills in all test areas—Numbers and Operations, Algebra and Functions, Geometry and Measurement, and Statistics and Probability. Math Shack is instantly accessible inside Shmoop’s regular SAT product. A user can simply jump back and forth between the two as they learn formulas and variables.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-opens-the-doors-of-its-new-math-shack/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/ed-tech-industry-summit-to-focus-on-navigating-next/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/ed-tech-industry-summit-to-focus-on-navigating-next/#comments Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:25:34 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=12116 The 10th annual Ed Tech Industry Summit (ETIS) will be held May 5-7 at The Palace Hotel in San Francisco, hosted by the Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). This year, the Summit’s theme is “Navigating ‘Next.’” Sessions will focus on preparing conference attendees to build the infrastructure, products and services to support the changes that schools want or need in a post-PC world. ETIS is the nation's leading education technology industry conference, featuring content-rich sessions on the ed tech market and connecting industry executives through networking sessions. Click through for registration details. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/ed-tech-industry-summit-to-focus-on-navigating-next/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-appoints-vice-president-of-education-and-customer-experience/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-appoints-vice-president-of-education-and-customer-experience/#comments Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:02:51 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11954 Learning.com has named Dr. Clifford Green as vice president of education and customer experience. In this new role, Green will serve as a member of the executive team and oversee Implementation, Customer Service and Inside Sales. Green comes to Learning.com from Ignite Education Group, where he was acting vice president of education and school operations. In October of 2011, Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter appointed Green as the executive director of the Idaho Education Network, a statewide, high-speed broadband and Video Tele Conference (VTC) system designed to deliver educational opportunities to Idaho’s students, schools and communities. “Dr. Green is a dedicated educator and a tremendous leader, and I am confident that his knowledge and expertise will help us to better serve the educators and students we support," said Keith Oelrich, chief executive officer. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-appoints-vice-president-of-education-and-customer-experience/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-introduces-online-debate-platform/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-introduces-online-debate-platform/#comments Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:34:09 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11943 The National Forensic League announces the launch of National Forensic League Online, an online debate platform that allows students to practice and compete in real-time from anywhere in the world. Students can limit their opponents to just students at their school or open the debate to any League member. Debates between students from other schools can earn League points as long as the debate is judged and a decision is made. Coaches can also create debates for their students to participate in and offer feedback on live or archived debates.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-introduces-online-debate-platform/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/florida-virtual-school-and-shmoop-offer-students-end-of-course-help/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/florida-virtual-school-and-shmoop-offer-students-end-of-course-help/#comments Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:44:17 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11924 Florida Virtual School has joined forces with Shmoop, a publisher of digital curriculum and test prep, to get students ready for the Florida End-of-Course Assessments. Shmoop’s guides are aligned to Next Generation Sunshine State Standards for Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, Civics and U.S. History, and include test-specific strategies for each assessment. Students can take diagnostic exams to assess their strengths, then brush up on problem areas with Shmoop’s extensive bank of practice problems. Each guide also comes with three full-length practice exams, as well as detailed answer explanations.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/florida-virtual-school-and-shmoop-offer-students-end-of-course-help/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-and-fundingfactory-partner-to-help-schools-recycle-and-earn-audiovisual-equipment-2/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-and-fundingfactory-partner-to-help-schools-recycle-and-earn-audiovisual-equipment-2/#comments Mon, 25 Mar 2013 21:58:40 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11853 Califone International, Inc., has partnered with FundingFactory to help schools recycle end-of-life audio equipment and enhance sustainability initiatives. Through the partnership, FundingFactory participants earn points redeemable for cash or new technology by collecting used headsets and headphones for recycling. Audio equipment has been added to FundingFactory’s Qualifying Items list, which also includes used inkjet and toner cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics. In addition to recycling used headphones and headsets, participants can redeem their points for Califone products, including the award-winning, washable Titanium™ headsets and the iPhone/iPod Wireless Portable PA System.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-and-fundingfactory-partner-to-help-schools-recycle-and-earn-audiovisual-equipment-2/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-and-fundingfactory-partner-to-help-schools-recycle-and-earn-audiovisual-equipment/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-and-fundingfactory-partner-to-help-schools-recycle-and-earn-audiovisual-equipment/#comments Mon, 25 Mar 2013 21:54:33 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11849 Califone International, Inc., has partnered with FundingFactory to help schools recycle end-of-life audio equipment and enhance sustainability initiatives. Through the partnership, FundingFactory participants earn points redeemable for cash or new technology by collecting used headsets and headphones for recycling. Audio equipment has been added to FundingFactory’s Qualifying Items list, which also includes used inkjet and toner cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics. In addition to recycling used headphones and headsets, participants can redeem their points for Califone products, including the award-winning, washable Titanium™ headsets and the iPhone/iPod Wireless Portable PA System.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-and-fundingfactory-partner-to-help-schools-recycle-and-earn-audiovisual-equipment/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-releases-guide-on-the-use-of-open-educational-resources-oer-in-k-12-and-postsecondary-education/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-releases-guide-on-the-use-of-open-educational-resources-oer-in-k-12-and-postsecondary-education/#comments Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:33:16 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11763 SIIA today released the “Guide on the Use of Open Educational Resources in K-12 and Postsecondary Education.” This Guide provides a framework for understanding open educational resources (OER), and it examines development and implementation costs, current business models, government and philanthropy’s role, and other considerations around the use of OER. “SIIA and this Guide are focused on helping public officials, instructors and content providers better understand the various OER models, as well as the total costs to consider in determining the appropriate strategy for developing and implementing a particular educational resource," said Karen Billings, vice president of SIIA's Education Division.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-releases-guide-on-the-use-of-open-educational-resources-oer-in-k-12-and-postsecondary-education/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-education-finalists-for-2013-codie-awards/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-education-finalists-for-2013-codie-awards/#comments Wed, 20 Mar 2013 23:21:05 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11751 SIIA today announced the 148 finalists in Education categories for the 2013 SIIA CODiE Awards. These finalists represent applications, products and services from developers of educational software, digital content, online learning services, and related technologies across the K-20 sector. This year’s program features 23 Education categories, several of which are new or updated to reflect the latest industry trends and business models. New this year, Best Personalized Learning Solution was the program’s most popular category. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-education-finalists-for-2013-codie-awards/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/echalk-appoints-new-chief-executive-officer/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/echalk-appoints-new-chief-executive-officer/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2013 20:43:32 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11732 eChalk announces Daniel Watts as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2013. Since co-founding eChalk in 1999, Watts has remained heavily involved with the company’s strategic development as chairman of the Board of Directors. Outgoing CEO Martin Brutosky will continue to serve as a member of the eChalk Board of Directors.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/echalk-appoints-new-chief-executive-officer/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-offers-free-e-waste-awareness-curriculum-to-accompany-recycling-program/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-offers-free-e-waste-awareness-curriculum-to-accompany-recycling-program/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2013 17:57:15 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11703 Teachers can bring service-learning into their classrooms through the “green” lessons and activities in EcoBuddies™, a free preK-5 recycling curriculum and fundraising program from FundingFactory. The cross-curricular environmental education program helps students understand the importance of e-waste recycling, while gaining subject-area knowledge and applying it to real-world projects. EcoBuddies curriculum includes lesson plans, classroom activities, worksheets and quizzes, and a soon-to-be-released online interactive habitat. Colorful wildlife characters enliven the program and engage students throughout the standards-aligned curriculum.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-offers-free-e-waste-awareness-curriculum-to-accompany-recycling-program/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-adds-26-videos-to-teacher-resource-offering/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-adds-26-videos-to-teacher-resource-offering/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:15:29 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11608 Shmoop, a publisher of digital curriculum and test prep, recognizes that video can be a powerful tool in learning. The company aims to help teachers connect with their students in every way possible. Shmoop has recently added new Video Activities to its Teacher Guides that educators can use to supplement their teaching methods. In all, 26 new Common Core-aligned video activities are available and more will be added soon.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-adds-26-videos-to-teacher-resource-offering/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/top-district-administrators-gather-to-connect-motivate-and-achieve-at-annual-skyward-icon-event/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/top-district-administrators-gather-to-connect-motivate-and-achieve-at-annual-skyward-icon-event/#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:41:24 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11659 Top school administrators from around the world traveled to Orlando, Fla., for the annual Skyward international conference (iCon) February 27 – March 1, which showcased the latest developments of the Skyward School Management System. This year’s theme of “Connect. Motivate. Achieve.” focused on promoting enhanced communication, motivating students and employees to reach higher goals, and ways to increase student achievement and budget management efficiency district-wide. During the three-day conference, attendees previewed future industry-leading product developments, participated in sessions that highlighted advanced features and new enhancements, and received one-on-one access to Skyward executives.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/top-district-administrators-gather-to-connect-motivate-and-achieve-at-annual-skyward-icon-event/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-and-curriculum-concepts-international-launch-everyday-learning-fun-early-reading-program/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-and-curriculum-concepts-international-launch-everyday-learning-fun-early-reading-program/#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2013 07:00:14 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11614 School Specialty has partnered with Curriculum Concepts International (CCI) to introduce Everyday Learning Fun, an early reading and prevention program. Everyday Learning Fun is a systematic, comprehensive program that teaches preK-2 students core reading skills shown to be critical for students’ success across subject areas, throughout grade levels and beyond academics. The individualized instruction means students learn at their own pace, and teachers can track progress through placement assessments, progress monitoring and pre-post level assessments.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-and-curriculum-concepts-international-launch-everyday-learning-fun-early-reading-program/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/benesse-america-launches-straightace-english-grammar-and-vocabulary/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/benesse-america-launches-straightace-english-grammar-and-vocabulary/#comments Fri, 15 Mar 2013 18:37:54 +0000 Carie Breunig http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11600 StraightAce Learning, a powerful system of study aids for middle school students, announces the launch of StraightAce English: Grammar and Vocabulary, a language arts tool developed to make learning manageable and improve grades through engaging study. The system is aligned with Common Core State Standards, and is available on personal computers and mobile devices. The first installment in the English series enhances students’ skills in three core areas: grammar, language skills, and vocabulary. StraightAce Learning can be integrated into classroom instruction, and supplemented at home through student review, bringing clear, easy-to-follow lessons to students wherever they are.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/benesse-america-launches-straightace-english-grammar-and-vocabulary/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/pbs-kids-play-adds-streaming-music-service-to-reinforce-lessons-for-young-learners/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/pbs-kids-play-adds-streaming-music-service-to-reinforce-lessons-for-young-learners/#comments Wed, 06 Mar 2013 22:12:13 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11405 PBS KIDS PLAY! now features a streaming music service, free to all subscribers, to help reinforce curriculum lessons for students in preschool, kindergarten and first grade. Tribal Nova, co-publisher of PBS KIDS PLAY! with PBS KIDS, added music to the program for its positive, long-lasting impact on student motivation and learning. The initial 25 music tracks come from the popular PBS KIDS program DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD and Web-original series FIZZY’S LUNCH LAB, with songs from more PBS KIDS series slated to join the line-up later this year. The songs featured on PBS KIDS PLAY! are designed to aid memory recall, reinforce key developmental and language themes, and encourage body movement for healthy development.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/pbs-kids-play-adds-streaming-music-service-to-reinforce-lessons-for-young-learners/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-offers-every-ap-exam-under-the-sun/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-offers-every-ap-exam-under-the-sun/#comments Mon, 04 Mar 2013 07:00:46 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11362 For students who are gearing up to take the AP exams, Shmoop, a publisher of digital curriculum and test prep, offers a guide for every AP exam students have ever wanted to take. Students can prep for marathon sessions in the testing room with full-length practice exams, and then review the results with in-depth answer explanations. Additional features of Shmoop Test Prep include a customizable dashboard, practice drills and diagnostic exams that identify a student’s strengths and weaknesses.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-offers-every-ap-exam-under-the-sun/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/carnegie-speech-selects-califone-headsets-to-deliver-spoken-language-lessons/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/carnegie-speech-selects-califone-headsets-to-deliver-spoken-language-lessons/#comments Mon, 25 Feb 2013 21:06:28 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11274 Califone International, Inc. announces that Carnegie Speech, the premier developer of software for assessing and teaching spoken language skills, will now provide Califone headsets to support its speech recognition software. The partnership enables education institutions and providers to effectively support their learners with language learning labs fully equipped with the high-quality products they need, as well as offer blending learning opportunities that personalize instruction for every student. Califone headsets will be used to supplement Carnegie Speech training programs like NativeAccent^®, which helps non-native speakers significantly improve spoken English skills in 10 or more hours of instruction.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/carnegie-speech-selects-califone-headsets-to-deliver-spoken-language-lessons/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-launches-student-reward-system-integrated-with-its-sis-software/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-launches-student-reward-system-integrated-with-its-sis-software/#comments Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:04:40 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11175 Skyward, Inc., is launching a Student Reward System that uses effective, motivational methods to connect positive, real-life behaviors with rewards provided through its online software. The Student Reward System is a free, integrated feature of the Skyward Student Management Suite, the first student information system on the market with this functionality. Within the system, students can assume a virtual identity, or avatar, and earn points for academic-related activities and game play. When students accumulate points, they are able to customize their avatar, advance to new levels within the system, and enjoy other incentives, including the ability to redeem “virtual” points to purchase items from their school store. The reward system harnesses effective gaming elements for educational purposes to foster motivation and positive academic outcomes.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-launches-student-reward-system-integrated-with-its-sis-software/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-partners-with-curriculum-concepts-international-on-early-reading-program/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-partners-with-curriculum-concepts-international-on-early-reading-program/#comments Wed, 20 Feb 2013 21:07:26 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11144 School Specialty, Inc. announces a partnership between its Premier brand and Curriculum Concepts International, LLC (CCI). Premier will work with CCI to bring early reading intervention and prevention programs to market. The first product launched last month is a reading intervention and prevention solution designed specifically for grades preK-2. The exclusive distribution partnership could develop into a more comprehensive relationship that would include content collaboration for new products.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/school-specialty-partners-with-curriculum-concepts-international-on-early-reading-program/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/smithsonian-quests-takes-learners-on-journey-of-discovery-and-collaboration/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/smithsonian-quests-takes-learners-on-journey-of-discovery-and-collaboration/#comments Wed, 13 Feb 2013 20:02:36 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11062 The Smithsonian Center for Education and Museum Studies has announced the launch of Smithsonian Quests, a digital badge program that fosters project-based learning. The cross-curricular, standards-aligned program aims to prepare students for college and future careers by incorporating knowledge and skill-building into the quests. The Smithsonian Quests badges are integrated with content from the Smithsonian Online Education Conferences. The first badges aligned with the 2013 Smithsonian Online Education Conference Series are “Community Historian” and “Portrait Reader.”]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/smithsonian-quests-takes-learners-on-journey-of-discovery-and-collaboration/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/california-high-school-strikes-ap-gold-with-shmoop/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/california-high-school-strikes-ap-gold-with-shmoop/#comments Mon, 11 Feb 2013 21:45:37 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11030 With more school activities available than ever before, finding the right program that engages students in studying has become critical. To respond to this need, Tustin High School in Tustin, Calif., turned to Shmoop, a publisher of digital curriculum and online test prep. After implementing Shmoop, Tustin High School saw the pass rate for its AP History exam increase from 45 to 80 percent. Eric Mooney, assistant principal of Tustin High School, was particularly impressed by the AP practice tests, which he believed helped focus instruction and personalize a student’s AP experience. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/california-high-school-strikes-ap-gold-with-shmoop/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-civil-rightshistorical-legacies-and-todays-achievements/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-civil-rightshistorical-legacies-and-todays-achievements/#comments Fri, 08 Feb 2013 20:26:34 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=11000 The Smithsonian Center for Education and Museum Studies' 2013 Online Conference Series, presents "Civil Rights -- Historical Legacies and Today's Achievements," two conferences focused on the history of civil rights in America. The first conference, "Civil Rights: From Lincoln to Today," will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 1 p.m. EST, and will be presented by Christopher W. Wilson and Naomi Coquillon from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. The second conference, “A Will of Their Own: Judith Murray and Women of Achievement in the Early Republic,” will be held on Wednesday, March 13, at 4 p.m. EST. The conferences are open to students, teachers and the public, and participation is free.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-civil-rightshistorical-legacies-and-todays-achievements/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/texas-school-districts-choose-skyward-for-real-time-student-progress-monitoring/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/texas-school-districts-choose-skyward-for-real-time-student-progress-monitoring/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2013 19:49:54 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10962 The Skyward Student Management System has been implemented at The Ranch Academy and the Weatherford and Crowley independent school districts (ISD) because of its wide range of tools and student progress monitoring capabilities. The Skyward Student Management System allows real-time monitoring of critical student data such as grades, scheduling and attendance, and facilitates school-to-home communication. The Crowley and Weatherford ISDs also utilize the Skyward School Business Suite, which provides integrated finance and human resource services.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/texas-school-districts-choose-skyward-for-real-time-student-progress-monitoring/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/news-highlights-from-cba-clients-at-tcea-2013/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/news-highlights-from-cba-clients-at-tcea-2013/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2013 07:59:09 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10922 CB&A clients were in the news at TCEA. Here are some highlights; a summary of news releases, video presentations, and media kits from the 2013 conference of the Texas Computer Education Association.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/news-highlights-from-cba-clients-at-tcea-2013/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/four-texas-districts-schools-select-pbs-kids-play-to-ensure-students-path-to-early-academic-success/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/four-texas-districts-schools-select-pbs-kids-play-to-ensure-students-path-to-early-academic-success/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2013 07:00:56 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10939 Tribal Nova, the publishers of PBS KIDS PLAY, announces that Bastrop Independent School District (ISD), San Marcos ISD, Joshua ISD, and Calvary Episcopal School & College Preparatory selected the adaptive online learning program to help students develop school readiness skills, such as literacy and critical thinking. In addition, Aldine ISD, a Houston area district of 83 schools, is incorporating PBS KIDS PLAY! Classroom Edition into a pilot program to supplement early education classroom activities. The public school districts and private school selected the interactive, online learning program, since it aligns to TEKS curriculum standards, is highly motivating for students, and supports personalized and blended learning.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/four-texas-districts-schools-select-pbs-kids-play-to-ensure-students-path-to-early-academic-success/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-education-announces-the-new-vision-k-20-website-and-launch-of-the-2013-survey/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-education-announces-the-new-vision-k-20-website-and-launch-of-the-2013-survey/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:22:36 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10914 In conjunction with Digital Learning Day, the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) announces the opening of its sixth annual Vision K-20 Survey and newly revamped Vision K-20 website. Sponsored by the Education Division of SIIA, the Vision K-20 Survey gives educators, administrators, and faculty members from K-12 and postsecondary educational institutions the opportunity to evaluate their current technology and compare it to prior results in a short online survey. SIIA member organizations worked together to develop the Vision K-20 initiative as a guide for educational institutions to implement technology district-wide and campus-wide.The release of the new Vision K-20 website provides new resources and materials for educators and industry professionals. Educators can use the resources section to help their institutions achieve Vision K-20 goals.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-education-announces-the-new-vision-k-20-website-and-launch-of-the-2013-survey/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-unveils-custom-curriculum-publishing-tool-at-tcea-2013/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-unveils-custom-curriculum-publishing-tool-at-tcea-2013/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:07:22 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10911 The newest feature of the award-winning Learning.com platform, Custom Curriculum Publishing allows districts and schools to build and publish custom digital units that align with their curriculum maps and instructional goals. The tool enables administrators to create and share unique content collections with their teachers and re-sequence existing content to more effectively meet specific objectives and standards. By delivering ready-to-go units directly to teachers, administrators can maintain consistency, coverage, and best practices across every classroom while saving teachers time.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-unveils-custom-curriculum-publishing-tool-at-tcea-2013/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-launches-digital-stereo-headphone/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-launches-digital-stereo-headphone/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 17:42:01 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10903 Since more districts are incorporating hybrid or blended learning, headphones are becoming an important supplemental resource in classrooms and labs. With the Lightweight Stereo Headphone (8200-HP) from Califone International, Inc., districts receive comfortable headphones at an affordable price. The 8200-HP headphone is purpose-built to accommodate regular student use in classrooms, libraries and computer labs, featuring adjustable polypropylene headband and swiveling on-ear earcups to enhance student comfort. With the addition of the Lightweight Stereo Headphone to its product suite, Califone offers a wide range of high-quality audio options to fit any size budget and need.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-launches-digital-stereo-headphone/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-introduces-skycoder-to-provide-districts-greater-control-of-data-management/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-introduces-skycoder-to-provide-districts-greater-control-of-data-management/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:45:21 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10887 Skyward today launches SkyCoder, a free tool that enables districts to customize its solutions for greater control and advanced data management capabilities. Customers can now tailor screens and field rules without using in-house development staff or expensive customizations. SkyCoder provides districts with the option to extend custom-defined parameters, fields and validations to ensure district-specific needs are met. Customers can also flag required fields within a user profile, providing districts with necessary administrative alerts and information.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-introduces-skycoder-to-provide-districts-greater-control-of-data-management/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-provides-critical-technology-integration-training-to-support-mcallen-isd-mobile-initiative/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-provides-critical-technology-integration-training-to-support-mcallen-isd-mobile-initiative/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:09:59 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10862 To assist in the distribution and usage of more than 22,000 mobile devices, McAllen Intermediate School District (ISD) in Texas has utilized Atomic Learning resources to train its educators and students on using the technology. A challenge-based learning initiative, Transforming Learning in the Classroom, Campus and Community, empowers McAllen students to leverage the latest technologies and learn 21st-century skills. McAllen’s subscription to Atomic Learning provides educators with step-by-step tutorials that propel classroom instruction, including project-based training, tech integration projects, tech skills assessments, and workshops on trending tech topics.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/atomic-learning-provides-critical-technology-integration-training-to-support-mcallen-isd-mobile-initiative/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-executive-director-judges-speech-and-debate-competition-in-south-korea/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-executive-director-judges-speech-and-debate-competition-in-south-korea/#comments Tue, 05 Feb 2013 20:37:32 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10848 As a testament to the globalization of speech and debate in schools, Executive Director of the National Forensic League J. Scott Wunn judged the National Forensic League of Korea Winter Cup on Jan. 19-20 in Seoul, South Korea. Nearly 400 students competed in the tournament, which was hosted at the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea. Students who earned either first- or second-place in their category automatically qualified for the National Speech & Debate Tournament this June in Birmingham, Ala., hosted by the National Forensic League.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-executive-director-judges-speech-and-debate-competition-in-south-korea/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-introduces-analytics-for-test-prep/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-introduces-analytics-for-test-prep/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2013 21:05:54 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10794 Shmoop introduces an advanced analytics solution that gives teachers and administrators access to informative data. Shmoop Analytics allows schools with a Shmoop license to view user data, student progress and compare results with other schools, classrooms and students. The robust tracking tool will enable teachers to see how much time their students are spending on assignments and identify those who are struggling with current material.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-introduces-analytics-for-test-prep/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-launches-website-redesign-e-rate-filing-window-survival-kit/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-launches-website-redesign-e-rate-filing-window-survival-kit/#comments Fri, 01 Feb 2013 22:20:02 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10791 Funds For Learning has redesigned its website, offering users easy navigation and a searchable repository of valuable E-rate-related information. Developed entirely in-house by the Funds For Learning Information Services department, the layout of the website includes new styling of the menus and toolbars, increasing the content availability and website functionality with E-rate Manager.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-launches-website-redesign-e-rate-filing-window-survival-kit/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-increases-productivity-for-michigan-school-districts/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-increases-productivity-for-michigan-school-districts/#comments Fri, 01 Feb 2013 07:06:21 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10788 Michigan school district leaders credit Skyward Student Management and School Business suites for increasing productivity and efficiency within their districts. Since 2010, the number of districts in Michigan implementing Skyward has increased by 44 percent, with a total of 171 districts using the integrated software to manage local student, finance and human resources data. Administrators in the Huron and Calhoun intermediate school districts explain that they are able to more closely monitor student academic progress using the Skyward School Management System.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/skyward-increases-productivity-for-michigan-school-districts/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/ballard-tighe-publishers-launches-new-educational-video-game-word-raider-escape/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/ballard-tighe-publishers-launches-new-educational-video-game-word-raider-escape/#comments Tue, 29 Jan 2013 20:22:10 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10765 Ballard & Tighe, Publishers, announced the release of its new online academic vocabulary game, Word Raider: Escape. Game-based learning engages students, and teaches word meaning through visual, sensory and interactive scaffolds that are key to the long-term retention of academic vocabulary. By the time players complete the game, they have been exposed to more than 1,100 assessment items. The game is designed for students in grades 2-5. ]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/ballard-tighe-publishers-launches-new-educational-video-game-word-raider-escape/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-technology-innovators-sought-for-incubation-program-at-2013-siia-ed-tech-industry-summit/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-technology-innovators-sought-for-incubation-program-at-2013-siia-ed-tech-industry-summit/#comments Thu, 24 Jan 2013 07:29:32 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10702 The Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is now accepting applicants for its Innovation Incubator Program. All education technology companies are encouraged to apply – from start-ups to established innovators. A panel of industry professional judges will then select 10 participants and one alternate to present their products during the 10th SIIA Ed Tech Industry Summit in San Francisco, May 5-7, 2013. The deadline to apply for the Innovation Incubator Program is March 8, 2013.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/education-technology-innovators-sought-for-incubation-program-at-2013-siia-ed-tech-industry-summit/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/ballard-tighe-demonstrates-how-game-based-learning-research-informed-its-new-educational-video-game/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/ballard-tighe-demonstrates-how-game-based-learning-research-informed-its-new-educational-video-game/#comments Tue, 22 Jan 2013 22:31:57 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10685 Informed by research on game-based learning, Ballard & Tighe, Publishers, has developed a new educational video game, Word Raider: Escape, aimed at helping elementary students learn academic vocabulary in an innovative way. Nine out of ten U.S. children are playing electronic games, more than 52 percent have played an educational video game, and three-fourths of administrators believe digital content increases student engagement.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/ballard-tighe-demonstrates-how-game-based-learning-research-informed-its-new-educational-video-game/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-welcomes-sas-curriculum-pathways-to-growing-digital-content-library/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-welcomes-sas-curriculum-pathways-to-growing-digital-content-library/#comments Tue, 22 Jan 2013 08:00:30 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10666 SAS Curriculum Pathways is the newest provider to join the growing digital content library at Learning.com, the celebrated source for connecting educators and students to the right digital content. SAS Curriculum Pathways online curriculum resources have been proven to increase student learning and teacher effectiveness by targeting higher-order thinking skills. The learner-centered approach integrates varied instructional strategies and incorporates formative and summative assessments. “SAS Curriculum Pathways shares our commitment to education and quality content,” said Keith Oelrich, CEO of Learning.com. “Providing Learning.com users with innovative content from SAS Curriculum Pathways links educators and students with even more resources via a single sign-on.”]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-welcomes-sas-curriculum-pathways-to-growing-digital-content-library/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/making-whats-old-new-again-in-the-classroom/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/making-whats-old-new-again-in-the-classroom/#comments Tue, 15 Jan 2013 01:16:40 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10582 Shmoop has produced a number of original and updated Teaching Guides for literature. The Guides include detailed activity ideas, articles on how to understand the toughest aspects of each book, and potential essay and discussion questions. New activities, reading quizzes and vocabulary sections have also been added for such beloved works as The Great Gatsby, Of Mice and Men and Macbeth. These teacher materials have become a hit on Shmoop, and the company continues to produce more across a variety of topics, including African-American literature, drama and female authors.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/making-whats-old-new-again-in-the-classroom/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-offers-two-year-warranty-to-provide-schools-added-reliability-for-headphone-and-headset-purchases/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-offers-two-year-warranty-to-provide-schools-added-reliability-for-headphone-and-headset-purchases/#comments Mon, 07 Jan 2013 07:27:47 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10497 Califone announces that headphones and headsets purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2013, will include a two-year warranty, making it the first company in the education industry to offer a warranty of this duration for child-sized models. The warranty extension reflects the company’s commitment to the education community and confidence in the durability of its products. Recent technical innovations have expanded the lifespan of Califone gear as well as supporting new ways of learning. The company’s audio products are critical tools educators rely on to support literacy and language development, computer-based and mobile learning activities, and differentiated instruction.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-offers-two-year-warranty-to-provide-schools-added-reliability-for-headphone-and-headset-purchases/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-teaching-the-57th-u-s-presidential-inauguration/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-teaching-the-57th-u-s-presidential-inauguration/#comments Thu, 20 Dec 2012 07:00:28 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10251 The Smithsonian Center for Education and Museum Studies announced the first topic of its 2013 online education conference series, “Teaching the 57th U.S. Presidential Inauguration.” The online conference will be held Thursday, Jan. 10, at 1 p.m., EST. A teacher preview session will be held Monday, Jan. 7, at 4 p.m., EST, to highlight museum resources and to discuss teaching strategies and preparing students for active participation in the main inauguration conference sessions.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/2013-smithsonian-online-education-conference-series-presents-teaching-the-57th-u-s-presidential-inauguration/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-participants-collect-nearly-300000-recyclables-in-care2collect-just-1-campaign/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-participants-collect-nearly-300000-recyclables-in-care2collect-just-1-campaign/#comments Wed, 19 Dec 2012 21:36:51 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10247 FundingFactory participants collected nearly 300,000 recyclables through the ‘Care2Collect Just 1’ campaign in November. The nation’s largest fundraising by recycling program pledged to donate $1 for every 100 qualifying recyclables it received, raising $3,000 to support the Second Harvest Food Bank. During the campaign, participants were encouraged to simply recycle one e-waste item, such as a printer cartridge or cell phone, through FundingFactory, and donate one non-perishable food item to their local food bank. The campaign aimed to help schools, nonprofits and businesses protect the environment while supporting their local communities.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/fundingfactory-participants-collect-nearly-300000-recyclables-in-care2collect-just-1-campaign/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-estimates-7-76-billion-us-market-for-educational-software-and-digital-content/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-estimates-7-76-billion-us-market-for-educational-software-and-digital-content/#comments Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:19:14 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10239 The Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) has released the “2011 U.S. Education Technology Industry Market: PreK-12 Report.” The report values the overall PreK-12 non-hardware education technology market at $7.76 billion, compared to last year’s valuation of $7.5 billion. Data in the report was collected directly from service providers, publishers, and developers to show a supply-side view of the market not available through traditional customer data collection techniques. This report is important in showing a comprehensive view of the PreK-12 market with real data.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-estimates-7-76-billion-us-market-for-educational-software-and-digital-content/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/study-results-challenge-commonly-held-reading-instruction-beliefs/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/study-results-challenge-commonly-held-reading-instruction-beliefs/#comments Tue, 18 Dec 2012 21:14:19 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10227 Researchers at the University of Iowa are poised to release study results that challenge long-held beliefs about the effectiveness of traditional reading instruction. The study, which will be published in the January edition of the Developmental Psychology journal, shows greater variation is critical to students’ reading development. The findings are in sharp contrast to traditional reading instruction, which is based on the similarity of words and letters. Researchers used a version of Access Code, the first program to apply the Varied Practice Model to how students learn reading skills, to conduct the experiment with more than 200 first-grade students.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/study-results-challenge-commonly-held-reading-instruction-beliefs/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-announces-free-webinar-series/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-announces-free-webinar-series/#comments Wed, 12 Dec 2012 20:46:50 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10147 The Funding Year 2013 Form 471 filing window is officially open and applicants can now begin submitting applications for the upcoming funding year. The Funding Year 2013 filing window will be open for 93 days, closing at 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, March 14, 2013. In conjunction with the Funding Year 2013 filing window, Funds For Learning announces its schedule of complimentary E-rate filing window webinars that have been developed to address specific filing window topics and are designed to appeal to all skill levels. Click through for a complete schedule.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/funds-for-learning-announces-free-webinar-series/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/performance-learning-systems-opens-course-enrollment-for-spring-2013/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/performance-learning-systems-opens-course-enrollment-for-spring-2013/#comments Wed, 12 Dec 2012 01:56:23 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10131 Enrollment is now open for spring 2013 courses from Performance Learning Systems. The company has partnered with 15 academic institutions to offer more than 100 on-site courses and 700 online courses, which are taught by practicing educators. The professional development courses are aimed at meeting the needs of educators looking for license renewal, movement on the salary scale, or to continue their education. Topics include classroom management, Common Core curriculum development and cooperative learning.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/performance-learning-systems-opens-course-enrollment-for-spring-2013/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-launches-listening-first-headsets/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-launches-listening-first-headsets/#comments Mon, 10 Dec 2012 07:00:32 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10092 Califone International, Inc. announces the launch of its Listening First™ Headsets, an extension of the popular Listening First headphone line. The Califone Listening First Headsets are made with rugged ABS plastic (for added student safety), ambient noise-reducing earcups, and are available in three color choices or three animal themes. The Listening First Headsets support computer-based and mobile learning activities, and are ideal for use in kindergarten and primary grades, as well as with special needs students. In addition, the Listening First Headsets help students build speaking and listening skills, which are critical components under the English Language Arts (ELA) portion of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-launches-listening-first-headsets/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-addresses-parcc-and-smarter-balanced-with-expanded-easytech-digital-literacy-curriculum/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-addresses-parcc-and-smarter-balanced-with-expanded-easytech-digital-literacy-curriculum/#comments Sat, 08 Dec 2012 01:06:05 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10083 Learning.com announces EasyTech for the Partnership for the Assessment of College and Career Readiness (PARCC) and the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortia. For today’s students to be successful with PARCC and Smarter Balanced, they need 21st century and digital literacy skills. These critical skills enable students to utilize technology in project-based problem solving and answer technology-enhanced and technology-enabled questions. Recognized as an industry leader in digital literacy education for more than a decade, the award-winning EasyTech curriculum has been reorganized to align with the material found on the new assessments, which include fundamental computer skills, keyboarding, word processing, charts and graphs, communicating and presenting, and research and evaluation.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-addresses-parcc-and-smarter-balanced-with-expanded-easytech-digital-literacy-curriculum/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/classroom-evaluation-of-word-raider-escape-developed-by-ballard-tighe-publishers-demonstrates-effectiveness-of-focused-motivation-in-game-based-learning/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/classroom-evaluation-of-word-raider-escape-developed-by-ballard-tighe-publishers-demonstrates-effectiveness-of-focused-motivation-in-game-based-learning/#comments Fri, 07 Dec 2012 00:57:29 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10068 Ballard & Tighe, Publishers, new educational video game, Word Raider: Escape, has yielded data supporting the ability of game-based learning to engage students. The academic vocabulary taught in the game was selected to bridge the language gap. The game situates players in a virtual world where the objective is to learn and practice academic vocabulary. Almost 1,000 students in the United States and around the world participated in the beta-test conducted in October.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/classroom-evaluation-of-word-raider-escape-developed-by-ballard-tighe-publishers-demonstrates-effectiveness-of-focused-motivation-in-game-based-learning/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-gives-ap-biology-an-extreme-makeover/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-gives-ap-biology-an-extreme-makeover/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2012 19:22:54 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10047 As a firm believer in a good old-fashioned makeover now and again, Shmoop is giving its AP Biology Guide a new look. Shmoop’s Guide is now upgraded to include the new College Board AP format to be implemented in the 2012-2013 school year. In addition, the Guide places a strong focus on the “Four Big Ideas of Biology,” and includes two lab sections for each “big idea” to help students increase the depth of their understanding. Shmoop also provides a complete student guide that features practice exams, diagnostics and drills, which use the new four-answer choice format.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/shmoop-gives-ap-biology-an-extreme-makeover/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-vp-for-education-dr-karen-billings-inducted-into-association-of-educational-publishing-hall-of-fame%e2%80%a8/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-vp-for-education-dr-karen-billings-inducted-into-association-of-educational-publishing-hall-of-fame%e2%80%a8/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2012 18:26:22 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10044 The Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) announces that Dr. Karen Billings, VP for the Education Division at SIIA, was inducted into the Association of Educational Publishers (AEP) Hall of Fame. The induction was held during a ceremony at the McGraw Hill Conference Center in New York on Nov. 29. The educational publishing industry's highest individual honor, the AEP Hall of Fame recognizes those who have dedicated their careers to the advancement of educational resources and the industry that develops and supports them. “Karen is not just an industry visionary – she’s an operational whiz. She engenders the greatest loyalty among the people she works with, and the members she serves," said Ken Wasch, president at SIIA.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-vp-for-education-dr-karen-billings-inducted-into-association-of-educational-publishing-hall-of-fame%e2%80%a8/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/hachette-book-groups-little-brown-books-for-young-readers-joins-capstone-digitals-myon-reader-publishers-program/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/hachette-book-groups-little-brown-books-for-young-readers-joins-capstone-digitals-myon-reader-publishers-program/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 18:42:35 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=10031 Capstone Digital announces its myON reader platform will be augmented with the addition of 46 titles from Hachette Book Group’s Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, publisher of bestselling picture books, fiction, and nonfiction for middle grade and young adult readers. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers joins other publishers recently added to the myON reader Publishers Program including Dorling Kindersley, Saddleback, Reference Point Press, Teacher Created Materials, August House, Mikaya Press, and Rourke Publishing, among many others. Each title added to the myON platform goes through a rigorous process to be converted into an interactive digital book.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/hachette-book-groups-little-brown-books-for-young-readers-joins-capstone-digitals-myon-reader-publishers-program/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/district-administration-names-skyward-student-management-suite-a-top-product-of-2012/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/district-administration-names-skyward-student-management-suite-a-top-product-of-2012/#comments Mon, 03 Dec 2012 21:40:08 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9983 The Skyward Student Management Suite is a Top Product of 2012, according to District Administration, a monthly American education trade magazine for K-12 education leaders. Nominated by readers and selected by its editors, the publication’s awards program honored the Skyward software due to providing administrators and parents real-time access to a student’s academic progress, and use past data for ongoing analysis.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/district-administration-names-skyward-student-management-suite-a-top-product-of-2012/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-announces-winners-of-presidential-debate-contest/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-announces-winners-of-presidential-debate-contest/#comments Mon, 03 Dec 2012 08:00:41 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9969 Three high school students have been named winners of the National Forensic League’s “I Approve This Message” Presidential Debate Contest. The winners are Nakul Makkad, senior at Fairmont Preparatory Academy in Anaheim, Calif.; Vidhaath Sripatha, senior at Hunterdon Central Regional High School in Flemington, N.J.; and Nishesh Chaubey, junior at Southside High School in Greenville, S.C. The students submitted five-minute YouTube videos tackling issues of health care, education and the economy.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/national-forensic-league-announces-winners-of-presidential-debate-contest/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-innovation-incubator-award-winners/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-innovation-incubator-award-winners/#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2012 19:25:53 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9948 The Education Division of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) showcased some of the leading growth companies in the education technology market and recognized the best among them as part of the Innovation Incubator program at the 12th annual Ed Tech Business Forum, held in New York. Clever received top-votes as Most Innovative and Most Likely to Succeed. Mathalicious received first runner-up for Most Innovative and Most Likely to Succeed. Classroom, Inc. has the distinction of receiving the first-ever Educator’s Choice Award. “This year’s innovation incubator winners were incredibly creative and focused,” said Karen Billings, vice president for SIIA’s Education Division. “We are confident that all of the Innovation Incubator participants will make a positive, lasting impact on the ed tech industry.”]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/siia-announces-innovation-incubator-award-winners/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/92-percent-of-skyward-wisconsin-customers-meet-or-exceed-state-academic-standards/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/92-percent-of-skyward-wisconsin-customers-meet-or-exceed-state-academic-standards/#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:11:39 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9940 Of the 50 percent of Wisconsin public school districts that use the Skyward school administration software, 92 percent of the customers meet or exceed the standards set forth in the Department of Public Instruction’s (DPI) School Report Card. Skyward software improves communication and empowers administrators, teachers, and parents to closely monitor students’ academic progress throughout the school year. The report card scored 2,118 public schools on a scale from zero to 100, with 1,611 schools meeting, exceeding or significantly exceeding expectations, according to the DPI. Additionally, less than one percent of Skyward supported schools failed to meet state expectations, while more than six percent of non-Skyward schools failed to meet those same expectations.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/92-percent-of-skyward-wisconsin-customers-meet-or-exceed-state-academic-standards/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-wins-three-tech-learning-awards-of-excellence/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-wins-three-tech-learning-awards-of-excellence/#comments Tue, 27 Nov 2012 21:17:59 +0000 Charlene Blohm http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9906 Three Learning.com products were recently selected for the 2012 Tech & Learning Awards of Excellence. Learning.com Marketplace and Middle School STEM both won awards in the New Product category, and Aha!Math earned recognition as a Best Upgraded Product in the prestigious 30-year-old recognition program. “These three recognitions from Tech & Learning are testament to Learning.com’s dedication to providing innovative, ground-breaking solutions that improve student learning,” said Learning.com Chief Technology Officer Suketu Pandya. “The Awards of Excellence are especially meaningful because they’re determined by a panel of educators.”]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/learning-com-wins-three-tech-learning-awards-of-excellence/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/cba-to-host-media-central-at-tcea-2013/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/cba-to-host-media-central-at-tcea-2013/#comments Tue, 27 Nov 2012 19:14:29 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9865 CB&A will host Media Central at TCEA 2013. This year's conference theme is "Learning in a New Light", and the event takes place in Austin, Texas, February 4-8, 2013. Consult the CB&A TCEA news page for more information.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/cba-to-host-media-central-at-tcea-2013/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/echalk-launches-custom-web-design-services-to-help-schools-personalize-sites/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/echalk-launches-custom-web-design-services-to-help-schools-personalize-sites/#comments Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:23:34 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9858 It has long been established that parental involvement is an important factor in student achievement. And in the Internet era, school websites have become the focal point of engagement for students, parents and educators. eChalk has launched Custom Web Design services to help schools personalize their sites in ways that foster greater community involvement and boost their online curb appeal. administrators choose from a variety of customizable themes and work one-on-one with a professional designer to create a unique look and feel for the site. When the site is complete, eChalk transitions to a support role, enabling school administrators to manage content on their own schedules.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/echalk-launches-custom-web-design-services-to-help-schools-personalize-sites/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/leadturkey-partners-with-performance-learning-systems-to-introduce-learning-styles-evaluation-system-for-education/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/leadturkey-partners-with-performance-learning-systems-to-introduce-learning-styles-evaluation-system-for-education/#comments Fri, 23 Nov 2012 22:59:11 +0000 Emily Embury http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9819 Educators in Turkey now have the ability to discover the learning styles of their students through the Kaleidoscope Profile^®, a propriety learning styles evaluation system introduced by LEAD|Turkey, the leading provider of professional development training for educators in Turkey, and developed by Performance Learning Systems (PLS). Based on more than 80 years of research and proven effective for nearly 20 years, the Kaleidoscope Profile is one of the oldest and most widely-used learning styles inventory systems in the United States, used by more than a half-million students and educators.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/leadturkey-partners-with-performance-learning-systems-to-introduce-learning-styles-evaluation-system-for-education/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-earns-award-of-excellence-from-tech-learning-magazine/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-earns-award-of-excellence-from-tech-learning-magazine/#comments Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:53:24 +0000 Kristen Plemon http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9811 Tech & Learning magazine honored the Titanium™ Series Headset (with Guaranteed for Life Cords) from Califone International, Inc. as a Best Upgraded Product Winner in its 30th Annual Awards of Excellence Program. Califone upgraded the Titanium Series Headset with its innovative Guaranteed for Life cord to provide schools with a long-lasting, durable option to extend the life of the equipment and maximize their investment. Additionally, the Titanium Series Headset is the industry’s first washable headset.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/califone-earns-award-of-excellence-from-tech-learning-magazine/feed/ 0 http://www.cblohm.com/news/featured-speakers-announced-for-2012-siia-ed-tech-business-forum/ http://www.cblohm.com/news/featured-speakers-announced-for-2012-siia-ed-tech-business-forum/#comments Thu, 15 Nov 2012 23:24:07 +0000 Saul Hafenbredl http://www.cblohm.com/?post_type=news&p=9708 SIIA has announced the featured speakers for the 12th Annual SIIA Ed Tech Business Forum. Fifteen speakers will discuss the theme of “Doing Business During Seismic Change,” focusing on the economic landscape and the changes in the ways education customers are accessing content, curriculum, and administrative tools. The SIIA Ed Tech Business Forum is the leading business and finance conference for the K-12 and postsecondary education markets.]]> http://www.cblohm.com/news/featured-speakers-announced-for-2012-siia-ed-tech-business-forum/feed/ 0