Key points:

• Learning to read is a lifetime activity that pays dividends for children, youth, adults, and our communities
• 5 things you need to know about the science of reading
• More than a passion project, literacy advocacy takes a village
• For more news on literacy, visit eSN’s Innovative Teaching hub

The United States is arguably in the midst of its most profound shift ever over how children learn to read.

Since 2013, according to an analysis, policymakers in 37 states have passed laws or implemented new policies related to reading instruction and stakeholders from scholars and journalists to teachers and parent coalitions have weighed in.

This intense focus on early literacy is significant and making a difference in student proficiency in states like Mississippi, but we contend it may be too narrow.

From the point of view of education organizations like the National Center for Families Learning and the Southern Regional Education Board, early reading is only one piece of the much larger literacy puzzle—a puzzle we must solve as a nation. Learning to read is a lifelong process, and our efforts should aim to improve standards and outcomes at all stages of life, embracing a longitudinal perspective.

Our society cannot wait for this year’s fourth graders, who are benefiting from recent changes in the way we teach reading, to grow up and enter the workforce in 2032. We must act to ensure that children, youth and adults are receiving the literacy education that enables middle-skills workers—those who need more than a high school diploma but less than a college degree—to achieve success. Doing so ensures all workers have the skills to support their families and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Research shows that about 43 million Americans—nearly one in five adults—read below a third grade reading level. Additionally, fewer than 10 percent of all adults in need of literacy support are currently receiving education services, according to a 2023 report by the Adult Literacy and Learning Impact Network of which NCFL is a member.

Meanwhile, a 2020 study found a significant connection between average yearly income and average reading levels. According to the study, the average income of adults who read at the equivalent of a sixth grade level is $63,000. In contrast, the study found, adults who read at a third to fifth grade level earn an average of $48,000 and those at the lowest literacy levels earn just $34,000 on average.

To sustain and increase economic growth, we need literacy improvements across the age continuum—preschool to adulthood. Only with a comprehensive multigenerational approach to literacy learning will this country see the greatest economic gains at both the micro level, in terms of individual income, and macro level, where an increase in qualified human capital can drive growth nationally.

Early childhood

Investment in early childhood education shows an average return over time of $4 for every dollar spent, thanks in part to reduced needs for special education and increased productivity for families, according to the multiple studies summarized by the Buffet Early Childhood Institute.

To support family relationship-building and child development through play-based learning, NCFL created Play with Purpose, a facilitated playgroup designed for children birth to five and their caregivers. Children and adults learn together alongside other families during weekly sessions and are provided books and supplemental materials to help ensure that learning continues between sessions. Participating families can set and achieve goals around their children’s development and see an increase in their social and emotional skills and language acquisition, both of which support emerging literacy.

Middle and high school

The most recent National Assessment of Educational Progress found that 30 percent of both eighth- and 12th-graders were unable to meet basic reading standards such as determining the meaning of familiar words or identifying explicit details from a text. NAEP long-term trends data also show that average scores for 13-year-old students in 2022 declined 4 points in reading from the previous assessment report in 2020.

To counter this trend, SREB developed the Literacy Ready curriculum and coaches teachers on best practices in helping students read and understand complex texts in different subject areas. A preliminary study of the program in three states during the late 2010s, found that students showed significant improvement on the ACT English and reading exams, with the average score increasing by 1.3 points and 1.5 points, respectively.

Postsecondary, workforce and adult learning

As our nation continues to automate basic retail and manufacturing jobs, we are seeing an increase in middle-skill jobs. These workers will need stronger literacy skills to train for more advanced positions and to read instructions and guides for the technology they will manage.

Learning to read is a lifetime activity that pays dividends for children, youth, adults and our communities. That’s why NCFL developed the four-component model of family literacy, which meets families where they are to support adults in achieving their education and workforce goals, provide educational programming to children, and bring both generations together for joint learning activities. In one study of the model in action, over 90 percent of parents made progress towards their adult education or employment goals.

Now, more than ever, it is critical that we acknowledge the vital role literacy plays at every stage of life. Together, we can do more than improve fourth grade reading scores; we can commit to focusing on literacy gains longitudinally, from young children to adults reskilling for new careers, as an investment in the workforce of tomorrow.

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In the realm of education, the integration of technology has the power to enhance learning experiences for all students. However, to truly harness the benefits of educational technology, it is imperative to prioritize inclusivity and address accessibility challenges. Inclusive technology ensures that every student, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, can fully participate in the educational journey.

 

Understanding Inclusive Technology

Inclusive technology refers to the design and implementation of digital tools and resources that consider the diverse needs of learners. This encompasses not only physical disabilities but also cognitive, sensory, and learning differences. The goal is to create an educational environment where technology is an equalizer, providing every student with the opportunity to access, engage with, and benefit from educational content.

 

Assistive Technologies for All Abilities

Assistive technologies play a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity in education. These technologies are designed to assist individuals with disabilities in various aspects of learning. For students with visual impairments, screen readers and braille displays facilitate access to digital content. Speech-to-text and text-to-speech tools benefit students with dyslexia or other reading challenges. Inclusive technology, therefore, adapts to the diverse needs of learners, ensuring that everyone can actively participate in the learning process.

 

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

A key principle in creating inclusive technology is the concept of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). UDL promotes the development of educational materials and environments accessible to all students from the outset. By incorporating multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression, UDL aims to cater to diverse learning styles and abilities. In the context of technology, this involves creating platforms and applications that are navigable, customizable, and compatible with assistive technologies.

 

The Role of Educators and Developers

Educators play a vital role in the implementation of inclusive technology. They need to be aware of the diverse needs of their students and advocate for integrating accessible tools into the curriculum. Additionally, collaboration with technology developers is essential to ensure that educational software and applications are designed with inclusivity in mind. This partnership can lead to the creation of user-friendly interfaces, compatibility with assistive devices, and ongoing updates to address emerging accessibility challenges.

 

Breaking Down Barriers to Learning

Inclusive technology not only addresses accessibility challenges but also breaks down barriers to learning. It fosters a sense of belonging for students with disabilities, empowering them to actively participate in class discussions, complete assignments, and engage with educational content on an equal footing with their peers. Moreover, it promotes a culture of empathy and understanding, preparing all students for a diverse and inclusive society.

 

Inclusive technology is not just a concept; it is a commitment to providing equal access to education for all. As we embrace the digital age in education, let inclusivity guide our approach, ensuring that technology is a tool for equity and not a source of disparity.

The post Inclusive Technology: Addressing Accessibility in Education first appeared on Dennis Muizers Lovejoy | Technology.

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A large part of CoSN’s mission is to participate in edtech-related policy discussions at both national and state levels. Their agenda includes: Ensuring ample funding for educational technology, enhancing the effectiveness of the E-rate program, safeguarding the privacy and security of student data, and fostering digital equity. Policy initiatives are structured around CoSN’s focus on four critical policy areas: E-rate and broadband access in classrooms, educational technology funding, privacy and data security, and digital equity. 

As part of #CoSN2024, the Advocacy Auction raises money for those efforts. Members volunteer a variety of items and experiences and attendees bid them up. Last year the event raised over $80K.

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What is CoSN? The Consortium for School Networking is the national professional association of K-12 EdTech leaders, their teams, and other leaders in school districts across the nation. CoSN represents over 13 million students and continues to grow as a powerful and influential voice in K-12 education. CoSN2024 is CoSN’s premier EdTech leadership event. Members and nonmembers gather to get top-notch education, network and share information with colleagues and peers, and also meet representatives who provide top-notch products/services to their schools and districts. Click here for all the details

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Charlotte, NC -- Oregon’s Harrisburg School District (HSD) today announced a new multiyear partnership with global edtech leader Discovery Education.Thanks to this new collaboration, teachers and students in HSD’s elementary school classrooms will soon have access to two dynamic new digital products that empower educators to bring science instruction to life in ways that ignite student curiosity about the natural world and drive deeper engagement in learning. 

Located in Northwestern Oregon and serving the city of Harrisburg and the surrounding rural areas of Benton, Lane and Linn Counties, HSD offers a comprehensive K-12 education. Through an elementary school serving students in kindergarten through 4th grade, a middle school serving students in 5th grade through 8th grade, and a high school for 9th grade through 12th grade, HSD’s talented team of professionals provide students learning opportunities that empower all students to succeed. 

The HSD’s elementary school team sought a new suite of high-quality science resources aligned to state standards that would be simple to integrate into instruction and support the district’s goals for academic progress. Following a thorough review of viable solutions, the district selected Discovery Education’s Science Techbook for Oregon and Mystery Science for classroom use.  

Delivered through Discovery Education Experience, the company’s K-12 learning platform, Science Techbook for Oregon is a K-12 core curriculum that includes engaging digital resources, print student textbooks, hands-on activity kits, virtual investigations, and custom professional learning. Adopted for classroom use by Oregon’s State Board of Education and aligned to the 2022 Oregon Science Standards, this comprehensive resource includes ready-to use, phenomena-driven lessons that motivate students, powerful technology tools—such as toggle-on Spanish translation—that personalize access, and time-saving teacher tools that streamline prep and grading. Science Techbook for Oregon is available in both print and digital formats, providing a seamless classroom experience complete with immersive, interactive ways to explore, including hands-on engineering activities, interactive labs, and STEM connections.  

Through its digital, print, and blended options, Science Techbook for Oregon delivers a wide range of high-quality resources that support students as they discover how science is practiced in the real world, while focusing on deeper understanding and application of grade-appropriate science content. Recently, Discovery Education’s Science Techbook was certified as meeting the rigorous, evidence-based ESSA Tier III standards as set forth in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). 

Mystery Science provides K-5 educators simple-to-use, open-and-go, hands-on lessons that inspire students to love science. Each lesson begins by posing a question commonly asked by young students. Students then explore these questions through interactive videos featuring real-world visuals fostering a sense of wonder and actively supporting student engagement in the accompanying discussion prompts. Mystery Science simplifies prep for teachers, making the integration of this resource into classroom instruction simple. Plus, all K-5 science lessons are available in Spanish, with accompanying videos featuring authentic Spanish narration and Spanish text-on-screen (for discussion questions, vocabulary words, and step-by-step instructions). Editable, ready-to-use worksheets and assessments are also available in both English and Spanish.  

“Igniting young learners’ curiosity about the natural world at a young age is important,” said Darcey Edwards, Principal of Harrisburg School District’s Elementary School. “If an educator can spark students’ curiosity in science, they can engage them in learning and begin to build the knowledge and skills that will promote further academic success as they progress through school. We believe these new resources will pique students’ curiosity and engage them in science, and we look forward to seeing these tools in action in our classrooms.” 

All HSD educators will now also enjoy access to the Discovery Educator Network. A global community of education professionals, the Discovery Education Network connects members across school systems and around the world through social media, virtual conferences, and in-person events, fostering valuable idea sharing and inspiration.  

“Discovery Education is excited to kick-off this new collaboration with the Harrisburg School District,” said Abbey Whitworth, Discovery Education Account Executive. “The educators serving Harrisburg’s elementary school students are dedicated to helping each student live up to their fullest potential and we look forward to supporting their efforts with these dynamic resources.” 

For more information about Discovery Education’s award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions visit www.discoveryeducation.com and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.  

About Discovery Education 
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and corporate partnerships, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and trusted organizations to empower teachers with leading edtech solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com. 

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Key points:

• Educators can design learning experiences that leverage students’ diverse strengths and interests
• How to support student agency
• 3 simple strategies to supercharge student growth
• For more news on student learning styles, visit eSN’s Innovative Teaching hub

In the vibrant tapestry of any classroom, students come equipped with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and unique ways of processing information. As educators, our responsibility lies not only in disseminating knowledge but also in understanding and accommodating the diverse learning styles present among our students.

Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences offers a valuable psychological framework for comprehending these differences to consequently craft educational experiences that resonate with each student’s strengths.

Learning styles refer to the preferred methods individuals use to absorb, process, and retain information. These styles can vary significantly from person to person. They are influenced by factors such as genetics, culture, and life experiences. While some students thrive in a visually rich environment (absorbing knowledge through images and spatial representations), some excel in a more auditory setting (preferring lectures, discussions, and storytelling). Some students learn best through hands-on experiences and others favor logical reasoning and problem-solving.

The challenge for educators lies in recognizing and accommodating these diverse learning styles within a single classroom setting. This is because traditional teaching methods often cater to a narrow range of learning styles. This inadvertently causes some students to be disengaged or to struggle to grasp concepts. However, educators can tailor their instructional strategies to meet the varied needs of their students by embracing the principles of Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. The groundbreaking theory proposes that intelligence is not a singular entity, but a multifaceted construct that encompasses a spectrum of abilities. In his seminal work, Gardner identifies eight distinct intelligences where each represented a unique way of processing information.

Integrating Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences into classroom practice requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges and accommodates the diverse learning styles of students. Differentiated instruction, varied instructional modalities, flexible assessment strategies, encouragement of collaboration, and promotion of self-reflection are key strategies to consider.

By recognizing the diversity of intelligences present among students, educators can design learning experiences that leverage their strengths and interests. This can foster deeper engagement and understanding. In the mosaic of education, recognizing and addressing the diverse learning styles and intelligences of students is paramount to fostering inclusive and effective learning environments.

Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences offers a valuable framework for understanding these differences as well as to guide instructional practices that cater to the unique strengths and preferences of each individual student. By embracing the principles of the Gardner’s Theory, educators can unlock the potential of every learner, nurturing a culture of diversity, equity, and excellence in education.

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This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters.

Missy Testerman has been teaching at Rogersville City School for 32 years. But for the past few years, she’s been teaching more children who weren’t born in the rural Appalachian community where the school is nestled.

Some of the children are from Mexico and Honduras. Others are from India, China, and various Arabic-speaking nations. She heard stories about immigrant families braving dangerous routes to get to the United States.

“We’re very rural. We see cows every day,” said Testerman, 54, who also directs the ESL program at the school. “But what we’ve seen here is that [Spanish-speaking immigrants] aren’t settling close to the [southern] border anymore … they’re coming to towns like ours.”

To help these families acclimate, Testerman earned her license to teach English learners two years ago. What she’s learned is that the job requires more than helping children and families learn English and find their way. It means helping newcomer students fit in socially as well.

Sometimes, she said, the political climate can make that daunting.

“I try to make sure that my children and their families are assimilated here, that they’re participating in sports and everything, because if they assimilate, people will accept them more easily,” Testerman said.

She said it’s “heartbreaking” to hear people, particularly elected officials, make hurtful blanket statements about immigrants.

Last year, Testerman’s passion for her students and her work as an ESL teacher earned her the title of Tennessee’s 2023 Teacher of the Year. This year, the Council of Chief State School Officers selected her as one of four finalists for National Teacher of the Year.

The winner will be announced in April.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” she said. “I’m still a little baffled as to how and why, because there are so many awesome teachers in my state and community who pour their heart and soul into their work. To be named as a finalist is just incredibly humbling.”

Testerman recently talked to Chalkbeat Tennessee about how she approaches her work.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

How do you go about teaching English to non-native speakers?

You just start small, using photo cards, and expanding their reach, just like you would with a baby, by trying to fill their world with language. In the beginning, it means very basic language that you build on.

I do a combination of push-in services, where I go in, plan with the teacher, work with the teacher, and help deliver English language development skills at the same time I’m delivering academic content, and I also do [55 minutes of] pull-out for kids who need it — new learners, students who struggle.

This year, I really tried to focus on my fourth graders, because they were kindergartners when the COVID shutdowns started. They were home during most of first grade, and they’re the ones who have had the most loss.

What’s your favorite lesson to teach and why?

I love everything about the reading process. My master’s degree is in education, so I love any lesson that has to do with the components of reading — whether that is breaking down themes, character development, contractions, antonyms, and synonyms.

What’s going on in your community that affects what happens in your classroom?

Unfortunately, there are [those], and they’re mainly politicians, who are on social media pushing out these untrue statements about immigrants, and a lot of times, that causes a bias to form against some of my students and their families, and that does affect their education.

Luckily, my school here is kind of insulated. We built this community inside our school, but outside our school, these are the things that my students and their families have to face. They want to fit in, but they also want to be proud of their heritage, and we want them to be proud of their heritage.

Also, something that is also very important to me is that they preserve their home language. It is a gift to have two languages, and I constantly work in examples of how they can use both of their languages in a career someday. I tell the story of my son’s girlfriend. [Her family is] Honduran. She was born and raised in Houston but she speaks both languages. They’re in supply chain management and real estate. She’s just incredibly talented because she’s able to talk to people in two different languages. I urge [students] to speak their home languages at home, so they don’t lose it. I can teach them English, but not Arabic or Spanish.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I think I was always destined to be a teacher. I was always that typical kid who lined up the dolls taught the dolls, and forced my little sister to play school. I had so many incredible teachers when I was growing up, and I wanted to be like them, to emulate them. I wanted to dress like them. I remember when I was in the first grade, and I was so proud when my mom bought me a cardigan to wear with my Easter dress because my teacher wore a cardigan every day. I was so proud of that sweater.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

I worked with the very best mentor. She’s no longer with us, but she was always that voice asking what’s best for kids and how something will impact students. That’s the best advice I’ve ever gotten: To keep kids as the focus and to ask yourself what’s best for students.

How do you take care of yourself when you’re not at work?

This may sound weird, but my husband and I get up at about 5:30 every morning, and we run before school. That is my stress reliever; it helps me manage the stress of the job.

Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools.

Related:

• For more news on ESL teaching, visit eSN’s Innovative Teaching hub
• 5 practical ways to support English learners in the classroom
• How to help ESL students improve writing skills

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In today’s fast-paced business environment, the ability to innovate is a strategic imperative for staying ahead in a rapidly changing market. The art of business innovation involves not just adapting to change but proactively shaping it. Let’s explore key strategies businesses can employ to foster innovation and navigate the challenges of a dynamic market.

 

1. Cultivating a Culture of Innovation: From Leadership to Every Employee

Innovation begins with a culture that encourages and celebrates creativity at every level of the organization. Leaders play a crucial role in setting the tone for innovation, emphasizing the importance of experimentation, learning from failures, and embracing a growth mindset. Fostering a culture where employees feel empowered to contribute ideas and take calculated risks is essential for cultivating a dynamic and innovative environment.

 

2. Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Embracing a Growth Mindset

In a rapidly changing market, learning and adapting is a competitive advantage. Businesses must invest in continuous employee learning initiatives, providing opportunities for skill development, exposure to new technologies, and insights into industry trends. An adaptable workforce is better equipped to respond to market shifts, identify opportunities, and contribute to innovative solutions.

 

3. Customer-Centric Innovation: Solving Real Problems

Innovation is most impactful when it addresses real customer needs and pain points. Businesses that prioritize understanding their customers and actively seek feedback are better positioned to develop solutions that resonate. Adopting a customer-centric approach involves ongoing engagement, data analysis, and a commitment to delivering value beyond expectations.

 

4. Agile Methodology: Navigating Change with Speed and Flexibility

The agile methodology has become synonymous with business innovation in a rapidly changing market. Agile principles, rooted in flexibility, collaboration, and iterative progress, empower teams to respond to market changes swiftly. By breaking down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks and incorporating regular feedback, businesses can adapt their strategies in real-time, ensuring alignment with evolving market dynamics.

 

5. Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: Amplifying Innovation

Innovation doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavor. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with other businesses, startups, or industry experts can amplify innovation efforts. By combining strengths, sharing resources, and tapping into diverse perspectives, businesses can accelerate developing and implementing innovative solutions.

 

6. Investment in Technology: Enabling Transformation

Technology is a catalyst for business innovation. From adopting emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain to leveraging data analytics for informed decision-making, businesses that embrace technological advancements position themselves at the forefront of innovation. Technology enhances not only operational efficiency but also opens new possibilities for product and service innovation.

The post The Art of Business Innovation: Staying Ahead in a Rapidly Changing Market first appeared on Dennis Muizers Lovejoy | Business & Entrepreneurship.

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CoSN2024’s Virtual offering is “The CoSN Experience.” The event will no longer be a hybrid event, but a fully virtual experience.

Program description: An immersive virtual collaboration cafe series that invites you to embark on a journey of monthly conversations and knowledge sharing. Join forces with like-minded colleagues as we collectively empower ourselves with expertise and agile strategies tailored to address local demands from April – November 2024 (six live experiences – approximately one per month).

Key Program Highlights

• Access to “The Best of the Best of CoSN2024” in recorded sessions and highlights.
• Monthly virtual gathering from May to November, ensuring a continuous learning journey.
• Complimentary to all registered CoSN2024 in-person registrants- A valuable addition to your professional development.
• For those who cannot attend CoSN2024 in person, they are offering the following registration fee:
  • Member:  $249
  • Non-member: $349

The CoSN Experience

Schedule of Events

Lessons from Successful 1:1 Programs with Leandro Folgar, President, Ceibal and Scott Smith, Chief Operations Officer, Mooresville Graded School District, NC
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET

Digital Equity Dashboard: Empowering Schools Through Data-Driven Decisions with Lucy Gray and team.
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET

Building Unity in Teams: The ASBO Guide to Effective Collaboration with Jen Lotze.
Wednesday, July 24, 2024 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET

Revolutionizing Fairness: Unleashing AI Through the Lens of Equity with Michael Trucano and Pete Just.
Wednesday, September 25, 2024 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET

Shaping the Future: Exploring the National EdTech Plan for Transformative Education with Carla Wade, CoSN and Zac Chase, U.S. Department of Education Office of Educational Technology.
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET

To Be Unveiled!!
Wild Card Session: The most Popular Session from CoSN2024!
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET

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COSTA MESA, Calif. -- BenQ, an internationally renowned provider of visual display and collaboration solutions, today announced that Manor Independent School District in Manor, Texas, has selected and installed BenQ Boards and BenQ Smart Displays in Manor New Tech High School, Manor Early College High School, Manor Rise Academy, Wildhorse Elementary, and Manor Elementary Early Learning Center and new Transportation Facility. The smart boards and digital signage displays were selected for their simple, secure, and streamlined approach to the future of EdTech. With BenQ’s license-free and future-ready EZ Write 6 software, InstaShare wireless presentation system, and technology administration tools AMS, DMS, and X-Sign solutions, the BenQ displays have become the new technology standard for the growing school district.

“BenQ continuously demonstrates the way it supports today’s teachers and staff while enhancing learning in exciting ways for students,” stated David Gonzalez, Director of Technology at Manor ISD. “BenQ’s comprehensive suite of solutions provides us with the best of the best and aligns perfectly with our vision of simplifying and standardizing technology districtwide. Now our teachers can focus on what matters most — delivering high-quality instruction to our students.”

After rigorous evaluation and comparison against other smart board vendors, Manor ISD chose BenQ to bring its schools into the future. The Google EDLA-certified BenQ Boards empower teachers to teach their way, whether they choose to use the whiteboard, share their screen wirelessly, or load lessons from the web. Making the transition to the BenQ Board smart boards is simple with the award-winning EZ Write 6 software. Teachers can do it all with this license-free annotation and collaboration software designed to fit any teaching style. It allows teachers to use any interactive course and existing IWB files to make lesson building a snap. Users have the freedom to annotate and work directly from the interactive display or a wirelessly connected device. When teachers are creating or presenting lessons, EZ Write’s Floating Tool empowers them to add text to any app, video, website, document, or image. They can also choose the pen color, erase, open files, or take screenshots.

In addition, BenQ Boards feature InstaShare 2, the award-winning wireless casting system that allows multiple users to share to the screen simultaneously as well as create split screen lessons with a single tap and enable cloud whiteboarding for students to contribute and write on the screen from wherever they’re located — whether in the class or joining remotely. From the smart board, teachers can quickly log into their cloud platforms and apps, including Google Classroom, ClassLink, and others.

BenQ also features Device Management Solution (DMS) and Account Management System (AMS), which allow the district’s small tech team to remotely configure settings, push updates, monitor device analytics, and manage user permissions. These solutions are not only free, eliminating the need of the district’s former control and management solution that was costly and complicated, but also provide simplified, centralized management, reducing the burden on Manor ISD’s IT staff responsible for managing 24 schools. This streamlined approach enables educators to focus more on teaching and instruction, rather than troubleshooting technical issues.

Finally, recognizing the growing importance of digital signage and the ability to broadcast announcements and alerts throughout schools, BenQ Boards, and smart displays benefit from the company’s X-Sign digital signage software. X-Sign turns any BenQ smart board or smart display in the school’s network into broadcast signage and allows schools to keep everyone informed and up to date on events, safety protocols, and emergencies.

“As educational institutions strive to meet the evolving needs of students and educators, it’s imperative that they adopt solutions offering seamless integration, versatility, and innovation,” said Bob Wudeck, senior director of business development at BenQ Education. “Our BenQ Boards epitomize the modern classroom ecosystem, providing educators with the tools they need to teach their way while fostering collaboration and engagement that is the future of learning. Manor ISD’s decision to select BenQ reflects their commitment to preparing students for success in an increasing digital world, and we are honored to be a trusted partner in their journey toward educational excellence.”

More information on BenQ is available at www.benq.com/en-us/education.html.

About BenQ Education
BenQ Education is helping teachers shape the future of learning with interactive display solutions that maximize engagement in and out of the classroom while improving student performance. For over 10 years, BenQ has been the No. 1-selling TI DLP projector brand worldwide, according to Futuresource, and is one of the leading interactive display vendors in North America. The award-winning BenQ Board is the first and only interactive display to feature TÜV- and SIAA-certified germ-resistant screens, interfaces, and pens as part of its purpose-built ClassroomCare technologies designed for healthier classrooms. The BenQ Board RP03 Series has been recognized as the first smart board to achieve Eyesafe® Certification, the advanced blue light mitigation technology developed in concert with optometrists and ophthalmologists. Industry-recognized, BenQ’s Tap ‘N Teach technology for fast sign-on, EZWrite license-free annotation and whiteboard software, InstaShare wireless screen presentation system, and IT-friendly monitoring and management tools create exciting and intuitive active learning experiences. EZWrite 6 is also AWS Qualified, having passed Amazon Web Services (AWS) Foundational Technical Review (FTR), providing schools with assurance in security, reliability, and operational excellence. Educators can focus on giving lessons that leave an impact and give the leaders of tomorrow the tools they need to reach their maximum potential. The company’s products are available across North America through leading value-added distributors, resellers, and retailers. More information is available at www.BenQBoard.com.

All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

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