Tech & Learning magazine has named the winners of the Best of 2023 contest, which recognizes educational technology that exceptionally supported teachers and students in 2023.
Tech & Learning asked our team of expert judges to evaluate hundreds of nominations to select products they believed supported education this past year. Each nominee answered the following questions: What specific problem does this product solve? How did your product exceptionally support teaching and learning in 2023? How does your product address the challenges facing education today? The products below were selected as winners by our judges based on this criteria.
“2023 will surely be remembered as ‘the year of AI,’ but there were plenty of examples of products that integrated a variety of innovative technology to help to improve teaching and learning,” said Christine Weiser, Content Director for Tech & Learning. “Congratulations to the following winners for supporting innovation in schools.”
PRIMARY
95 Percent Group, 95 Literacy Intervention System
This new digital platform puts the tools for diagnosing skill gaps, digitally grouping students with similar needs and assigning targeted reading instruction at teachers’ fingertips. Judges noted: “A must-have component of this product is that the system feeds real-time data up to school and district levels, empowering key decision-makers to make informed curriculum and instructional choices and to propagate best practices.”
Accelerate Learning Inc. Collaborate Science powered by Accelerate Learning
Collaborate Science is a K-5 science curriculum that fuses phenomena-driven, project-based learning for students with focused professional development for teachers. Judges wrote: “The professional development for teachers is the clincher for a school district. So many programs do not have sustainable PD for the classroom educators.”
Accelerate Learning Inc. STEMscopes Math powered by Accelerate Learning
STEMscopes Math is a core mathematics program for grades K-8 and Algebra I. Judges noted: “STEMscopes Math supports educators seeking to elevate math instruction. This comprehensive platform seamlessly integrates STEM principles into the learning process, engaging students in interactive and dynamic math experiences.”
Acer TravelMate B5 14
The TravelMate B5 14 laptop supports students of all ages with a robust, yet sustainable design featuring a compact 14-inch display, up to 9 hours battery life and MIL-STD-810H certified construction. Judges wrote: “This is a well thought out and constructed laptop. I like that the drop height has increased to 48" as well as the ease of replacing the components. The warning for eye strain and taking a break using a sensor is very good as well as its green initiatives.”
Arizona State University Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College Community Educator Learning Hub
The Community Educator Learning Hub--available at ASUCommunityEducators.org--is an online learning platform with over 130 nanocourses that break down the competencies of teaching and learning into easy-to-understand tips developed by award-winning ASU faculty and community organizations. Judges said: “ I like the idea behind this product. The need for training of others in the volunteer and NGO community is needed.”
Avantis Education ClassVR
ClassVR is aVR/AR headset built specifically for K-12 education. Judges wrote: “ClassVR is the total package when it comes to bringing and scaling Virtual Reality use for schools to adopt this technology.”
AVer Information A30
The A30 is a multi-functional classroom tool that enhances the teaching experience by combining a document camera, web camera, microphone, and speaker. Judges said: “AverMedia has done it once again! Not only does Aver make some of the best document cameras and Web Cams in the world, but now they have combined those great features with the power of a speaker and microphone built right in! I want one of these!”
AVer Information U50+
The AVer U50+ FlexArm USB Powered Document Camera includes 8MP display resolution and 16x digital zoom. The U50+ ensures vivid and detailed image presentations. Judges wrote: “The AverMedia U50+ is a solid document camera that offers great optics and many features for great presentations. This product is an amazing, compact and easy to use, presentation tool.”
Benchmark Education Express! Asset-Based Access to English
Express, a Grades K-6 English Language Development program, employs an asset-based approach to leverage students' first language knowledge for a robust foundation in grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing skills. “This is a good product,” wrote the judges. The curriculum utilizes highly scaffolded and visually supportive practices, ensuring students acquire essential skills for accessing complex texts.
Benchmark Education Company StartUp BuildUp SpiralUp Phonics
StartUp BuildUp SpiralUp Phonics teaches phonics to students in grades K-2+ with effective and efficient small group instruction. Assessments and flexible pacing allow teachers to pinpoint individual needs and accelerate as student’s progress. Judges wrote: “Overall, this is a very well thought-out and researched solution with a price point that districts can afford.”
Bloomz Bloomz
Bloomz is a unified parent-teacher communications platform that increases parental engagement and handles all district, school, teacher, parent, and student communication. Judges said: “Bloomz is an invaluable tool for enhancing the educational experience.The platform makes navigating easy for families, educators, and school administrators.”
Bluum STEM Kits/Bundles
Bluum's kits make learning STEM interactive and fun, with eight different options to choose from, including robotics, 3D printing and design, makerspaces, augmented and virtual reality, science labs, collaborative classroom furniture; and coding products. “Bluum's STEM Kits support technological proficiency and lets students explore various STEM careers, fostering inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary connections.”
Bluum STEM AR/VR Solutions
Bluum's STEM augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) kits help bring STEM concepts to life inside the classroom. Each STEM AR/VR Bundle is customized for the individual school or district that purchases it. Bluum's STEM AR/VR Bundles offers students hands-on learning beyond classrooms, yielding outcomes like applied theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, and teamwork.
Boxlight MimioWall
The MimioWall transforms education learning spaces with Android digital displays, offering seamless images, scalability, and exceptional visual quality in nine size options. Judges said: “We particularly like the ultra-wide, 3-in-1 LED board that combines the power supply, receiving card, and hub board which facilitates a shorter Installation time because of this streamlined design.”
Boxlight MimioConnect
MimioConnect, an online platform, serves as a versatile educational solution for various learning environments, including blended, flipped, or remote setups. Judges said: “This is a very good solution for blended learning tools. The features and versatility make the Mimio Connect a very good tool for teachers and students.”
Branching Minds Branching Minds
Branching Minds is an online K12 education platform that brings together easy-to-use technology with advancements from the learning sciences to help educators achieve a Multi Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to improves students' academic, social-emotional and behavioral outcomes. Judges noted: “Its approach to MTSS and supporting underrepresented students is a whole child solution for schools.”
Capstone PebbleGo
PebbleGo is a curricular content hub specifically designed for K-2 students. Judges wrote: “PebbleGo provides a safe and engaging platform for research and exploration for young learners. Its interactive features make learning fun and accessible.”
Cignition, Inc. K-12 Math & ELA High Dosage Virtual Tutoring
Cignition is a K-12 virtual tutoring provider led by experienced educators who produce proven, repeatable results in student success for math and English Language Arts. Judges said: “Cignition has a well thought out virtual tutoring solution that can assist school districts and students achieve their math and ELA learning goals.”
ClassLink ClassLink Suite
ClassLink is a global education provider of identity, access and analytics products that create more time for learning and help schools better understand digital engagement. “An ideal solution for every district,” wrote judges.
ClassLink, ClassLink DataGuard
DataGuard protects schools from data theft. Instead of giving vendor partners all of student and teacher personally identifiable information (PII), DataGuard gives them only what's absolutely essential and masks all key fields. DataGuard “elevates the level of security, enabling teachers to focus on teaching,” noted judges.
Clear Digital Evo Roll and Evo Roll Pro
The Evo Roll signage shines both indoors and outdoors with its impressive HD display and sleek design. Judges said: “This solution has the portability, stability, and software to meet the needs of a school environment. The weather resistant features of the pro model only adds to its uses.”
Clear Digital Vue II
Clear Digital Vue II is a modular LED video wall system that ranges in size from 132” to 220”. Judges wrote: “I like all of the features of this board. It has some very good use cases and appears to be very durable and manageable.”
Clear Touch, 6000A+ Interactive Panel
The Clear Touch 6000A+ interactive panel series features native EDLA integration, which ensures seamless updates and full Android 13 compatibility. Judges wrote: “ClearTouch has outdone themselves with this product, solving problems that most Interactive Panels have not figured out yet. Multi-touch with 20 points of touch and 10 points of writing fosters amazing collaboration opportunities. I want one right now in my classroom!”
Curriculum Associates i-Ready Assessment and Personalized Instruction
Curriculum Associates’ i-Ready Assessment and Personalized Instruction equips educators with a deep understanding of students’ skills and areas for growth. Judges said: “i-Ready Assessment integrates assessment and tailored learning experiences. The personalized instruction adapts to individual strengths and weaknesses, fostering a customized learning path.
Defined Defined Careers
Defined Careers online K-12 college and career readiness platform helps schools and districts provide students with the opportunity to explore and experience careers through hands-on Project-Based Learning. Judges noted: “It is a challenge for a teacher of any subject and grade to be an expert to answer the question "when will I need this?". Defined Careers gives the teacher an answer and lesson resources to allow the student to answer that question for themselves.”
Defined Defined Learning
Defined Learning provides K-12 teachers with the resources and tools they need to engage all students in high-quality Project-Based Learning. Judges said: “This is a great platform to implementI PBL in a district or school, offering plenty of resources and ready-to-use lessons.”
Discovery Education Experience
Discovery Education Experience connects educators to a vast collection of standards-aligned content, digital lessons, quiz and activity creation tools, and professional learning resources. Judges wrote: “The platform's multimedia resources, virtual field trips, and interactive lessons captivate students, fostering a deeper understanding of subjects.”
Discovery Education Mystery Science
Mystery Science service is a K-5 ready-to-use multimedia science and STEM curriculum resource. Judges said: “ Mystery Science by Discovery Education is an innovative resource transforming science education. The platform's compelling lessons and hands-on activities make complex concepts accessible and enjoyable for students.”
Discovery Education DreamBox Reading
DreamBox Reading by Discovery Education is an adaptive program that enhances silent reading fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and motivation. Judges wrote: “DreamBox Reading is an effective tool for developing student reading skills. Using adaptive learning technology, it tailors lessons to each student's proficiency, providing personalized and engaging content. The platform's interactive activities support individual learning paths.”
Edmentum Exact Path
Exact Path helps elementary schools and districts scale intervention plans with personalized instruction and immediate data insights proven to accelerate growth. Judges noted: “ExactPath by Edmentum is a really nice tool for taking assessment scores and standards from annual and quarterly summative assessment companies and projecting a unique learning path for students to improve their areas of deficiencies.”
Forward Edge Edge•U Badges
Edge•U Badges is a professional learning system that adapts to the needs of educators. Judges said: “Edge U Badges recognizes and motivates student achievements. The platform's customizable digital badges provide a visually appealing and tangible way to acknowledge skills and accomplishments.”
Frontline Education, Frontline Special Programs Management
These case management tools for managing special education and other diverse learner programs improve program compliance and support the best outcomes for students. Judges wrote: “Frontline constantly evolves to address needs of health services in schools.”
FrontRow by Boxlight EzRoom with ELEVATE
ezRoom with ELEVATE revolutionizes classroom management and emergency technology, integrating classroom audio, AV control, and school-wide communication. Judges noted: “The new EZRoom Elevate product by FrontRow/Boxlight offers a unique school safety and security communication set that takes command of multiple senses in order to alert the entire building instantly.”
HoverCam Orbit Gigabit Wireless Document Camera
The HoverCam Orbit is a plug-and-play, gigabit wireless USB & HDMI document camera. Orbit uses Wireless USB, meaning it can cast its 4K image to any PC, Mac, Chromebook or Interactive Flat Panel. Judges wrote: “This is an excellent camera with all of the features and ease of use of the end users you could ask for.”
Inletech ArtMath
ArtMath is a research-based interactive learning and creation platform that engages K-8 students and AI technology to solve and create their own math stories. Judges wrote: “ArtMath does differentiation well, along with mathematical modeling, and moving students from consumers to creators of content. It has a lot of potential for impact on student learning.”
IXL Learning IXL
IXL gives school districts everything that they need to close learning gaps, boost academic achievement, and facilitate meaningful growth. Judges said: “In my years as a building and district leader, IXL has proven itself to be an excellent educational platform that goes beyond traditional learning methods. Its adaptive approach tailors content to individual student needs, ensuring a personalized learning journey.”
Learning A-Z Raz-Plus
Raz-Plus empowers elementary educators to differentiate instruction for every student at every level using research-based resources, personalized practice opportunities, and assessments designed to enhance reading comprehension and boost literacy performance. Judges wrote: “Raz-Plus is an impactful program for literacy instruction, providing an extensive digital library and robust resources for educators. Raz-Plus simplifies lesson planning and individualized instruction with a user-friendly interface and seamless integration.”
Learning A-Z Writing A-Z
Writing A-Z is a flexible K-5 writing curriculum rooted in cutting-edge research and best practices. Judges wrote: “With a library of leveled resources, Writing A-Z seamlessly supports differentiated instruction. The platform's interactive tools engage students, from emergent readers to advanced writers, and improve writing skills. Noteworthy features like e-books and lesson plans make planning and implementation easier.”
Learning A-Z Foundations A-Z
Foundations A-Z is a digital program that harnesses the power of the Science of Reading research for students while supporting teachers each step of the way. Judges said: “Foundations A-Z’s systematic approach, engaging activities, and extensive leveled content create a solid foundation for emergent readers. The platform's adaptability allows educators to tailor lessons to individual needs.”
Lincoln Learning Solutions Lincoln Content Bank
The Lincoln Content Bank (LCB), powered by Amazon Web Services, is a highly secure LMS add-on tool that gives educators access to discover and add enterprise-level curriculum content into their courses. Judges said: “This is a comprehensive resource for educators. The fact that it is secured in the AWS Cloud and is compatible with any SIS system is invaluable.”
Logitech Zone Learn
Zone Learn is a wired headset designed specifically for young learners. “The ZoneLearn Headset by Logitech is amazing! Logitech really has thought of everything when designing this headset for schools,” wrote our judges.
Magic EdTech MagicBox
MagicBox is a SaaS-based, cloud-hosted, end-to-end digital publishing platform. It empowers educational publishers, authors, and content providers to create, manage, enrich, and deliver digital content through custom-branded web and mobile apps. Judges liked that MagicBox “offers AI-powered learning tools to scale content development and provide personalized, engaging, and interactive online learning.”
MIND Education ST Math
ST Math is a PreK-8 visual instructional program that leverages the brain's innate spatial-temporal reasoning ability to solve mathematical problems. Judges said: “ST Math is a game-changer for mathematics education. Its visual and interactive approach to learning engages students and promotes a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. As an instruction leader, it is my most trusted program.”
MindPlay Education MindPlay Reading
MindPlay Reading revolutionizes the way students learn to read. Grounded in the principles of the Science of Reading, it offers a comprehensive, adaptive learning experience tailored to each student's unique needs. Judges wrote: “This program has a lot of potential and can be a game changer for the science of reading in schools.”
MobileMind MobileMind
MobileMind delivers a comprehensive professional development platform that facilitates district-scaled, sustainable, personalized learning while engaging educators in gamified, self-paced micro-courses. Judges said: “MobileMind’s s on-demand courses empower teachers with practical and innovative strategies for integrating technology in the classroom. The platform's interactive content makes learning accessible.”
MobyMax MobyMax
MobyMax offers teachers a comprehensive K-8 curriculum for 27 subjects, including math, reading, phonics, language, vocabulary, spelling, writing, science, social studies, state test prep, and so much more. Judges noted: “MobyMax meets diverse student needs and ensures mastery of subjects at an individualized pace. MobyMax's diagnostic assessments identify student strengths and weaknesses, allowing for targeted interventions.”
n2y Inspire
Inspire is a special education intervention curriculum solution that provides intensive, explicit, skill-based instruction for special education students who are assessed on the general education standards. Judges said: “Inspire Special Education has a well-structured curriculum and adaptive strategies. I like that it caters to individualized learning plans. The program's content fosters a positive and inclusive environment, making it a useful tool for educators committed to supporting every student's potential in special education settings.”
Open LMS Open LMS + Monash University + Smart Osvita Partnership
As the largest commercial provider of hosting, training, and support services for the open-source Moodle learning platform, Open LMS ensures organizations and institutions deliver the highest quality learning experiences without complexities. Judges said: “This is an innovative and empathetic solution to address the needs of learners most in need. It gives them access when they are so limited. I applaud them for their insight and action to deliver instruction.”
Otus Otus
Otus empowers K-12 educators to help every student reach their full potential through an all-in-one platform of integrated tools to gather, visualize, and act on student growth data. Judges wrote: “Otus simplifies tasks for educators, from grading to lesson planning. The platform's assessment and analytics features provide valuable insights, allowing for data-driven decision-making. Using the data tools to plan lessons allows teachers to strategically plan for student needs.”
OverDrive Sora, the student reading platform
Sora is the leading digital reading app and platform for K-12 schools. Judges said: “Sora enables teachers to push out ebooks to students while also allowing students access to local libraries. Both teachers and students can curate ebooks within their own collections or classroom. Its assistive technology tools ensure that all students are avid readers.”
Paper Educational Support System
Paper is a personalized learning platform that accompanies students throughout their K-12 journeys by offering a suite of academic support & independent practice tools. Judges wrote: “Paper provides 24/7 real-time, real person tutoring support for students with all K-12 subject areas. Paper is customized with avatars for students and is also customized with each grade level. Paper is amazingly intuitive and an asset to any school district wanting to expand their homework help and after school academic programming!”
Pencil Learning Technologies Pencil Spaces
Pencil Spaces is a unified education delivery system, with tools to empower teachers and administrators. Judges said: “I really like this tool. Schools can consider using this product to replace their IFP software and collaborative meeting/learning subscription.”
Pikmykid Pikmykid School Safety and Dismissal Platform
The Pikmykid platform streamlines dismissal, increases safety, and allows teachers and parents to focus on what really matters – learning. Judges wrote: “I really like this solution and am especially impressed with the arrival and dismissal features.”
Promethean ActivPanel LX
Promethean's ActivPanel LX is an easy-to-use, flexible, and affordable front-of-classroom display built to engage, enlighten, and excite both teachers and students. Judges noted: “I appreciate that Promethean has a more affordable interactive flat panel that is easy to use and has basic interactive features for teachers.”
Promethean OPS-A
The OPS-A computing module, an Android 12 device, was built specifically for use with Promethean’s ActivPanel LX interactive display. Judges noted: “This device is a great addition to the LX series boards, extending the functionality with a powerful Chrome OS solution.”
Promethean, Inc. Explain Everything Advanced
Explain Everything Advanced is a software platform for interactive, engaged teaching and learning. It's everything educators need, all in one place. Judges wrote: “The Explain Everything platform is a well designed and delivered solution that can be used in any classroom.”
Reading Horizons Reading Horizons Discovery
Reading Horizons Discovery is a research-based foundational reading program that streamlines instruction for K–3 teachers. Judges said: “I like this solution and think that it gives a nice balance of content and feedback for the teachers to make informed decisions. It also has choices of analog and digital content.”
Robotical Marty the Robot
In Marty the Robot, Robotical has developed a complete STEM learning solution built around a small walking robot with a big personality. From screen-free coding right through to advanced programming on Python and new machine learning applications, Marty is a flexible learning tool that grows with students. Judges wrote: “This is a very nice and well designed cross curricular coding and STEM solution.”
Samsung Electronics America WAC
The Samsung Interactive Display (WAC) is an interactive whiteboard that provides enhanced usability and specialized features for teachers and students to seamlessly collaborate. Judges said: “Not only does this Interactive Panel by Samsung offer stunning, vibrant displays of life-like content for learning, but this product is amazingly versatile in accepting content from many curriculum companies as well as converting lessons that were created using other brands of displays and other interactive software platforms.”
Sourcewell SpringMath by Sourcewell
A complete, schoolwide, MTSS solution, SpringMath engages both teachers and students — increasing confidence and long-term understanding. Judges wrote: “This MTSS based Math program is a great solution for educators, math coaches and interventions as they support math learners. Through pre and post assessments, students learn at their own pace and interventions are identified and implemented for struggling learners.”
Stages Publishing, Inc. Language Builder: Academic Readiness Intervention System
The ARIS (Academic Readiness Intervention System) curriculum is a comprehensive program designed specifically for children with autism. It blends structured, evidence-based learning with flexibility, enabling personalized education tailored to each child's unique needs and abilities. Judges wrote: “This is a well designed program that addresses the specific needs of autistic learners. Well done.”
Teaching Channel Teaching Channel's EMPOWER Platform
Teaching Channel's EMPOWER Platform is a professional learning product that brings together resources and tools that teachers, instructional coaches, and school and district leaders need. Judges said: “This solution can be of great value to save time and improve teacher success and evaluation. The ability to have a library of resources and examples help with a district's mission to give high quality instruction.”
TeachTown enCORE
enCORE Elementary (a component of TeachTown’s full K-12 curriculum) is a standards-based, adapted core curriculum based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that provides students with moderate to severe disabilities access to the general education curriculum. Judges said: “I really like the way this solution is put together. They used a great combination of expert resources, research, testing, and data to create this product.”
TouchMath NOW
TouchMath NOW is a transformative, digital platform that offers a modern delivery of evidence-backed instructional materials proven to measurably drive student outcomes. Judges noted: “The price point on the manipulatives would be a good entry point to test this product out in an intervention setting. Success in that environment would entice me to expand the use of their products in a school.”
TouchMath PRO
TouchMath PRO is an adaptive, digital solution that delivers individualized math intervention to remediate skills and accelerate student learning. Judges said: “This program pairs well with its manipulatives and curricular resources and provides a personalized experience for students of different ability levels. It has a good dashboard for teachers and students to monitor progress.”
ViewSonic Corp. ViewSonic IFP52 ED Series Interactive Displays
The ViewBoard IFP52 ED series of displays provides education users with a powerful productivity and collaboration tool. Judges said: “The Viewsonic IFP52 ED Interactive Display is amazing! Not only is it priced right but it offers wonderful functionality to laptops or desktop computers by bringing the power of touch to these devices as well as additional viewing real estate. I liked that the display comes equipped with a range of security features such as password protection, two-step authentication, and data encryption.”
Vivi Vivi
Vivi is an all-in-one collaboration and communication suite designed exclusively for education. Judges said: “The ViVi wireless screensharing and student engagement platform seems to solve multiple device platforms for casting their screens onto an interactive display or projector. Where other casting systems fall short, ViVi really appears to have overcome those challenges.”
Writelike.org Frankenstories
Frankenstories is a fast-paced, online, multiplayer game that develops advanced writing skills. Moderated by their teacher, students can play as a whole class, in small groups, or even as individuals. Judges wrote: “This is a great collaborative solution that will keep students engaged and help improve their creative writing skills.”
Zoobean, Inc. Beanstack
Instead of a quiz-based approach, Beanstack uses competition, recognition, and proven gamification principles to motivate students to read and grow a school district’s reading culture. Judges said: “Beanstack has taken the right approach by giving students agency in selecting what they want to read. Anyone will read more if they are interested in the topic. Making it gamified will only increase that interest. Also, incorporating the community aspect of it will increase participation throughout the school.”
SECONDARY
Accelerate Learning Inc. Math Nation powered by Accelerate Learning
Math Nation provides comprehensive, proven math resources for 6-8th grade Math, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and beyond, offering 24-hour access to a flexible platform that can be used inside or outside of the classroom, as well as online resources and printed workbooks. The judges said, “It captures both the print and digital environments for our students.”
Acer Acer Student Repair eLearning Program
The Acer Repair Certification eLearning Program gives high school students in the U.S. and Canada the opportunity to learn more about technology and build transferable skills in a hands-on setting. “Acer has put together a nice training curriculum that can be applicable in most school districts,” the judges said. “Training students will benefit not only them but also the school district as a whole.”
AllHere AllHere
AllHere provides schools with a behaviorally intelligent chatbot powered by cutting-edge conversational AI to support school-to-family communication. It provides 24/7 AI-powered family support tools to improve attendance and academics. The judges note, “This product uses AI chatbots to personalize communication in school communities.”
Aristo Educational Press Ltd. Aristo Science for the New Century
Aristo Science for the New Century offers a comprehensive blended learning package for junior secondary students, focusing on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, and also incorporates emerging technologies such as the metaverse and AI. Judges liked “the way their curriculum is designed to meet the needs of modern learners.”
BenQ LK935 4K Laser Projector
BenQ’s LK935 4K UHD laser projector brings affordable cinematic quality to school auditoriums and classrooms. The 5,500-lumen LK935 also enhances content with a super-dense 1,149 pixels per square inch. “It is reliable and fits the need for schools,” said the judges.
Bluum Esports Solutions
Each Esports Solutions Bundle is customized for the individual school or district purchasing it and is tailored to each school's desired outcomes. Bluum also reviews every customer's curriculum to ensure that pieces of each bundle integrate with the material students are exploring throughout the year. “This product supports teachers as they develop and sustain esports programs in schools,” the judges noted.
Bluum Integrated Safety Solutions
Bluum's Integrated Safety Solutions are designed to help protect students, staff, and school property while also delivering operational benefits. These safety solutions are designed to help whether you're looking to keep an unwavering eye on who enters and leaves campus or working to improve crisis response systems. The judges noted, “This product is a valuable security and communication tool for school districts.”
Boxlight MimioWall
The MimioWall offers Android digital displays for seamless images, scalability, and exceptional visual quality in nine size options. Its 3-in-1 board simplifies installation, combining power supply, receiving card, and hub board. The judges said, “We particularly like the ultra-wide, 3-in-1 LED board that combines the power supply, receiving card, and hub board which facilitates a shorter Installation time because of this streamlined design.”
Boxlight MimioConnect
MimioConnect is an online platform for various learning environments, including blended, flipped, or remote setups. It offers real-time monitoring capabilities, features like screen locking, and customized instruction based on assessment data to address diverse student needs. “This is a very good solution for blended learning tools,” noted the judges.
ClassLink ClassLink Suite
ClassLink is a global education provider of identity, access and analytics products that create more time for learning and help schools better understand digital engagement. The tool offers instant access to apps and files with single sign-on, streamline class rostering, automate account provisioning, and provide actionable analytics. Our judges noted, this is “a solution for every district.”
ClassLink ClassLink DataGuard
DataGuard protects schools from data theft. Instead of giving vendor partners all your students and teachers personally identifiable information (PII), DataGuard gives them only what's absolutely essential and masks all key fields. DataGuard dynamically replaces selected fields with meaningless letter scrambles. Judges noted, “It elevates the level of security enabling teachers to focus on teaching.”
Discovery Education Experience
Discovery Education Experience provides a vast collection of high-quality, standards-aligned content, ready-to-use digital lessons, intuitive quiz and activity creation tools, and professional learning resources. Judges noted, “The platform's multimedia resources, virtual field trips, and interactive lessons captivate students, fostering a deeper understanding of subjects,” and “It has a user-friendly interface and alignment with curriculum standards.”
Discovery Education Science Techbook
The Discovery Education Science Techbook series is a comprehensive, research-backed science solution for grades K-12. Used in classrooms across the U.S., the Science Techbook drives engagement with exclusive phenomena and interactive content. Said the judges: “The Techbook engages students in immersive learning experiences. It is aligned with curriculum standards, offers multimedia resources, virtual labs, and real-world applications.”
Discovery Education DreamBox Math
DreamBox Math by Discovery Education is a K-8 online math program that supplements core instruction in the classroom or at home and is independently proven by several third-party research organizations to increase math achievement. “DreamBox Reading is an effective tool for developing student reading skills,” the judges said.
Edmentum EdOptions Academy
EdOptions Academy supports districts and schools by providing flexible, virtual human-centered instruction from state-certified educators, and high-quality technology and curriculum that, when combined, grant every student in grades 6-12 a front row seat to learning. The judges noted, “The EdOptions Academy course materials are cleanly designed, easy to navigate and use, with high quality media content.”
Edmentum Edmentum Courseware
Edmentum Courseware offers more than 500 courses covering core, Advanced Placement, career and technical education, world language, and elective subjects to prepare students for their next step toward post-secondary education or the workforce. “Whether based on mastery of skills, learning interests or access to advanced course offering, this product is a one stop shop for school districts,” said the judges.
Edmentum Exact Path
Exact Path makes academic recovery possible, helping schools and districts scale intervention plans with personalized instruction and immediate data insights. The judges said, “ExactPath by Edmentum is a really nice tool for taking assessment scores and standards from annual and quarterly summative assessment companies and projecting a unique learning path for students to improve their areas of deficiencies.”
Edutek Solutions, LLC One to One Plus
One to One Plus is an asset management and help desk ticketing software developed specifically to meet the requirements of school districts. With its robust features, this platform empowers districts to oversee and track all their technological inventory within a unified system. “This product is a one stop resource for tech departments who are usually understaffed and overworked,” the judges said.
Epson Epson BrightLink 770Fi Interactive Ultra Short Throw Lamp-Free Laser Display
Designed for ease of use in collaborative learning environments, Epson BrightLink displays simplify interactivity in the classroom by offering compatibility with frequently used software applications, including Office 365 and Google Workspace. The judges were impressed with the product as well as its great price point.
ExploreLearning Gizmos
ExploreLearning Gizmos are online simulations that excite curiosity and invite interaction with more than 500 Gizmos in our library covering topics and concepts in math and science for U.S. grades 3 -12. The judges noted, “Gizmos offer virtual labs where students can play, explore, and experience important and difficult-to-imagine concepts and theories.”
Forward Edge Edge•U Badges
Edge•U Badges is a powerful, instruction-focused professional learning system that adapts to the needs of educators. Said the judges: “Edge•U Badges recognizes and motivates student achievements. The platform's customizable digital badges provide a visually appealing and tangible way to acknowledge skills and accomplishments.”
Frontline Education Frontline Special Programs Management
Comprehensive case management tools for managing special education and other diverse learner programs that improve program compliance and support the best outcomes for students. “Frontline streamlines processes so that schools can focus on students,” the judges said.
Frontline Education Frontline School Health Management
Frontline School Health Management helps districts keep students and staff safe with health checks, test results, vaccine tracking, case management, contact tracing, isolation and quarantine data, and statistics for more than 30 communicable diseases. The judges were impressed by the ways Frontline School Health Management is “consistently evolving to address needs of health services in schools.”
FrontRow by Boxlight EzRoom with ELEVATE
ezRoom with ELEVATE helps with classroom management and emergency technology, integrating classroom audio, AV control, and school-wide communication. Our judges noted, “The new EZRoom Elevate product by FrontRow/Boxlight offers a unique school safety and security communication set that takes command of multiple senses in order to alert the entire building instantly.”
Gale, part of Cengage Group Gale In Context: Literature
Gale In Context: Literature is a resource for literature instruction and learning that helps high schoolers engage and thrive in English language arts (ELA). “The Gale In-Context: Literature Module provides rich digital print content and access to a vast library of literature at the high school level and beyond,” the judges said. “Some of the more impressive tools that are built into this digital platform include the ability to accommodate students with on-demand article translation into 40 different languages, searching capabilities by lexile range, and MLA and APA Citation tools integration.”
Gale, part of Cengage Group Gale In Context: For Educators
For Educators is an award-winning instructional tool developed by curriculum experts that merges current, relevant, standards-aligned content with rich lesson plans and essential teaching tools. “This lesson planning tool helps educators as they curate and develop personalized digital content for teaching,” the judges said.
GAT Labs GAT+
GAT+ is a comprehensive management and security tool designed for schools using Google Workspace for Education. It integrates with Google Workspace, pulling live metadata through Google’s API and reporting deeply into user activity, email traffic, and document sharing. The judges were impressed with the solution. “They have a nice feature set and the pricing seems to be in line with competition,” they said.
Gradient Learning Along
Along is a free, online teacher-student connection builder that helps quickly build the strong ties needed to create and maintain trust year-round. Along is built on the premise that authentic teacher-student connections positively impact students’ academic growth, well-being, and social development. The judges noted the tool, “supports building a culture of trust in a school community.”
HoverCam Orbit Gigabit Wireless Document Camera
The HoverCam Orbit is the world's first plug-and-play, gigabit wireless USB & HDMI document camera. Judges noted, “This is an excellent camera with all of the features and ease of use for the end users you could ask for.”
Impero Software Impero Classroom
Impero Classroom is a holistic, scalable classroom management solution designed by Impero Software, a leader in classroom management and student safety software. “A leader in classroom management, this product puts teachers in control of their classroom, which is so important to keep students on task,” Judges said.
Incident IQ iiQ Facilities
iiQ Facilities is a building management software platform specifically designed for K-12 maintenance teams. This powerful but easy-to-use product allows maintenance staff to receive and prioritize help requests, manage work orders, record parts and labor, and schedule custom preventive maintenance tasks. Judges said, “This product ultimately focuses on teaching and learning which is a unique perspective for custodial services.”
IXL Learning Rosetta Stone for Schools
Rosetta Stone for Schools is a powerful K-12 learning platform designed to help students, particularly English language learners (ELLs), build fluency and confidence. One judge noted, “As a district leader in a district of 15K students and 37% EL students, Rosetta Stone is a staple for our educators. One of the strengths is its user-friendly interface.”
Lightspeed Systems Lightspeed Alert
Lightspeed Alert is an at-risk student identification solution that monitors and analyzes online activity for signs of self-harm, violence, and bullying. Through its notifications to school district officials, Lightspeed Alert empowers schools with proactive student safety measures and allows a focus on early intervention. “Lightspeed Alert is a critical asset for ensuring online student safety,” said the judges.
Lincoln Learning Solutions Lincoln Content Bank
The Lincoln Content Bank is a secure LMS add-on tool that gives educators access to discover and add enterprise-level curriculum content to their courses. It integrates with any LTI 1.3 capable LMS and is currently supported in platforms such as Instructure Canvas, Schoology, and Agilix Buzz. “This is a comprehensive resource for educators,” said the judges. “The fact that it is secured in the AWS Cloud and is compatible with an SIS system is invaluable.”
Linewize Linewize Pulse
Linewize Pulse is a student wellbeing and cultural analytics platform that supports student mental health, provides actionable insights on wellbeing and gathers trend-level data on school culture through 60-second, weekly check-ins. Said the judges: “With student mental health issues on the rise, this product is an innovative, community-wide solution to address it.”
ManagedMethods Cloud Monitor
Cloud Monitor uses API integrations with popular cloud applications, such as Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, to monitor and control a district’s domains without the need for appliances, extensions, proxies, agents, or gateways. ”A cybersecurity tool necessary for all districts,” said the judges.
McGraw Hill McGraw Hill AR
McGraw Hill AR is a free, augmented reality app offering engaging, bite-sized experiences that promote deep, conceptual learning. The app leverages AR to gamify challenging concepts and make learning more engaging and fun. “Finally, a textbook company that has taken time to invest in this technology and bring real value and robust content for students to take their learning to a whole new level and dimension!” said the judges.
MobileMind MobileMind
MobileMind is a comprehensive professional development platform that facilitates district-scaled, sustainable, personalized learning while engaging educators in gamified, self-paced micro-courses. Said the judges: “This solution is valuable to districts for their PD, training needs, and compliance.”
MRU Introduction to Economics Unit Plan
The MRU Intro to Econ unit plan features interactive practices, real-world examples, and is teacher friendly. Teachers are provided with easy-to-understand lesson plans, Google Slides for teaching, activities for students, and answer keys. “I like this product a lot,” said one judge. “I watched some of the videos and liked the way they were presented. The descriptions and use of multimedia made the content even better.”
n2y Polaris
Polaris is an IEP online development and progress monitoring solution, designed to help service providers plan, write, execute, and report on IEPs for students pre-K through transition on the general education or extended learning standards. Said one judge: “Seeing many meetings over the years in my roles, I know that having a streamlined solution helps efficiency and productivity.”
NoRedInk Co. NoRedInk
NoRedInk includes diagnostic tools, instructional resources, targeted skills practice, and a range of scaffolded and unscaffolded writing activities, plus an online writing curriculum, interactive tutorials, models, and lessons. The judges noted that NoRedInk is a robust platform, adding, “NoRedInk has a user-friendly interface with a teacher dashboard to simplify tracking progress.”
Otus Otus
Otus provides an all-in-one platform of integrated tools to gather, visualize, and act on student growth data by integrating grading, assessments, progress monitoring, and data warehousing. “Otus simplifies tasks for educators, from grading to lesson planning,” said the judges. “The platform's assessment and analytics features provide valuable insights, allowing for data-driven decision-making.”
Paper Educational Support System
Paper is a personalized learning platform that offers a suite of academic support, independent practice tools, and career and college readiness support as well as 24/7 live help. Said the judges: “Paper is amazingly intuitive and an asset to any school district wanting to expand their homework help and after school academic programming!”
Pencil Learning Technologies Pencil Spaces
Pencil Spaces is a unified education delivery system to support active learning, with video calls, saved whiteboards for setup or review, breakout rooms, file uploads, and a unique web viewer. Said one judge: “I really like this tool. At least, it is worth a demo. At best, it might replace your IFP software and collaborative meeting/learning subscription.”
PowerSchool PowerSchool Naviance CCLR
PowerSchool Naviance CCLR is a college, career, and life readiness platform that helps students connect learning to life goals, discover their strengths and interests, build critical SEL skills, create actionable goals, and find their best-fit path after high school. “Naviance CCLR enables students to navigate the career world while gaining a better understanding of themselves,” said the judges.
Proximity Learning Live Virtual K-12 Education
Proximity Learning provides livestream virtual classes presented by certified teachers who synchronously connect with classes in brick-and-mortar schools daily. “This product appears to fill a need in education with the ongoing teacher shortage,” said the judge. “It appears to use a very solid approach with quality instructors.”
Realityworks Medical Terminology Class Kit
The Medical Terminology Class Kit includes a 17-lesson curriculum and provides enough components for a class of 20 students to complete hands-on activities simultaneously, giving the teacher enough resources for a typical class size. “I think this is a very unique product for specific curricular needs,” said one judge, adding that it seemed well thought out.
Samsung Electronics America WAC
The Samsung Interactive Display (WAC) is an interactive whiteboard that provides enhanced usability and specialized features, and is available in 65-, 75- and 86-inch clear UHD models, plus comes with simultaneous connectivity for up to 50 devices.Said the judges: “Not only does this offer stunning, vibrant displays of lifelike content for learning, but this product is amazingly versatile in accepting content from many curriculum companies.”
Scribbles Software ScribChoice
ScribChoice is a configurable online solution that allows districts to manage all school choice processes – from specialty programs to district transfers – all in one easy-to-use online system. “This solves a particular problem very well,” said the judges. “It not only creates the lottery system, in multiple languages, but also takes care of the document management of the enrollment process.”
Sergeant Laboratories AristotleK12
AristotleK12 is an all-in-one edtech solution that includes filtering, multilingual classroom management, student behavior analytics, asset utilization, and more, all suitable for district-wide use on Chromebooks, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Virtual Desktops. Said the judges: “This is a single pane of glass solution that will be of great value to anyone who has too wide a variety of devices to monitor student activity. Well done.”
Singleton Foundation for Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship Venture Valley Mobile and PC Game
Venture Valley is a free-to-play on mobile (iOS and Android) and PC (via Steam) game that provides financial education through competitive esports-style multiplayer play and a single-player campaign featuring 35 entertaining missions. “This a great solution and delivers a much needed curriculum in financial literacy in a gamified environment,” said the judges.
TeachTown enCORE
enCORE Middle and High School are two components of a full K-12 core curriculum that is standards-based and based on Applied Behavior Analysis, which provides students with moderate to severe disabilities access to the general education curriculum. “I really like the way this solution is put together,” said one judge. “They used a great combination of expert resources, research, testing, and data.”
Tutor.com and The Princeton Review High-Dosage Tutoring
High-Dosage Tutoring is an evidence-based solution that marries the core strengths of Tutor.com and The Princeton Review, and features standards-aligned curricula, formative and summative assessments, and proven instructional methodology honed over 25 million tutoring sessions. “With its flexible scheduling and data-driven insights, the program seamlessly integrates into academic programs,” said the judges.
Tutor.com and The Princeton Review On-Demand Tutoring by Tutor.com
Tutor.com’s LEO academic support platform offers streamlined access to On-Demand Tutoring, drop-off review services (also available on demand), and self-paced resources, including test prep from The Princeton Review. “The platform's skilled tutors and interactive tools create an engaging learning experience,” said the judges. “It is a valuable resource for leaders aiming to enhance student outcomes.”
Vivacity Tech PBC Student Repair Academy (SRA)
Vivacity Tech’s Student Repair Academy provides students with interactive training and core knowledge to help create your very own in-house repair center through a multicourse series featuring Chromebook repairs, hardware configuration, and troubleshooting tactics. Said one judge: “Whether I currently had a student technology repair team, or considering creating one, this would be a must-have.”
Vivacity Tech PBC Mobile Charging Station
Vivacity Tech’s Mobile Charging Station is a multi-functional surge protector tower that offers simultaneous device charging for up to 16 devices, four USB-A and four USB-C charging ports, and eight AC outlets. The judges called it visually pleasing and functional, with one adding, “If I were in the market for a charging station, this would be one to look at.”
Vivacity Tech PBC Guardian Work-In Case with Pouch
The Guardian Work-In Case with Pouch comes in two sizes – 11” and 14” – with a water-resistant polyester exterior and an interior with six anchor straps that fully secure the device to the case. “This is a great case if I needed to transport a laptop back and forth from school,” said the judges. The quality of the materials is high and provides great screen protection.”
Vivi Vivi
Vivi is the only all-in-one collaboration and communication suite designed exclusively for education. It combines wireless screen sharing, digital signage, announcements, and emergency alerts into a single solution that connects students, teachers, and school staff. Said the judges: “Where other casting systems fall short, Vivi really appears to have overcome those challenges.”
Writelike.org Frankenstories
Frankenstories is a fast-paced, online, multiplayer game that develops advanced writing skills. Moderated by their teacher, students can play as a whole class, in small groups, or even as individuals. “This is a great collaborative solution that will keep students engaged and help improve their creative writing skills,” said the judges.
YouScience Brightpath
YouScience Brightpath is an end-to-end platform that connects education with career applications designed to help students unlock their potential for future pathways. “Brightpath uses a series of brain games to help students discover their unique aptitudes and interests and helps guide them toward the right path,” said the judges. “This system is a great way to learn about ‘you.’”
HIGHER ED WINNERS
Acer Chromebook Plus 514 (CB514-3H/T)
The Chromebook Plus 514 (CB514-3H/T) is part of a new tier of products that combines advanced performance, features and durability standards with new productivity, creativity, and multimedia capabilities in ChromeOS to allow teachers and high-school students to do more in Chrome. “This is a well spec'd and thought out device,” said our judges.
Anthology AI Design Assistant Blackboard Learn by Anthology
The AI Design Assistant is a generative AI feature in Anthology’s Learning Management System, Blackboard Learn. Judges wrote: “The AI Design Assistant provides a good 80/20 rule when using AI. The user can't click and submit, but it gives a good template to start with and modify to fit the needs and vision for the course.”
BenQ LK935 4K Laser Projector
BenQ’s LK935 4K UHD 5,500-lumen LK935 laser projector delivers the full richness, clarity, and accuracy of all content, whether projecting video or the multiple kinds of content such as text, video, video conferencing, images, graphs, and more simultaneously needed for engaged and stimulating learning. Judges said: “Depending on the price point, this is a reliable projector that fits the need for schools.”
Bloomberg Bloomberg for Education
Bloomberg for Education is an education technology solution that facilitates experiential learning of the financial markets. Educators and learners can access a range of educational resources such as CPD-accredited online certificate courses, interactive simulations, case studies and webinars that promote practical learning of the financial markets faster, easier and more successfully.
Canva Canva
Canva for Campus unlocks everyone’s potential with the power of design and visual communication. A Canva for Campus subscription gives students, professors, staff and campus administrators access to Canva’s full suite of tools. Judges wrote: “Canva for Campus has improved the way students and educators approach design. This platform offers a user-friendly interface with many templates, empowering users to effortlessly create visually stunning presentations, posters, and graphics. I also use it daily in my role as a leader.”
Chief Voyager Mobile Cart
Voyager is a compact mobile display solution to support flexible conferencing and collaboration. Judges noted: “Voyager includes large panel display stands that have camera and speaker mounts that integrate with most of the most popular conferencing platforms. One of this cart's most distinguishing features is its ability to rotate a large panel display from Landscape to Portrait orientations.”
ClearOne DIALOG UVHF Wireless Microphone
The ClearOne DIALOG UVHF is a flexible wireless microphone system that delivers robust reception and more available spectrum on-demand than any other product in its class. Judges said: “This is a comprehensive and flexible audio system for higher ed. The IT staff should have less to manage with these units. The ability to be used for in-person as well as virtual teaching in small or large spaces makes it a winner.”
ClearOne BMA 360D
ClearOne’s BMA 360D is a microphone array ceiling tile family that leverages standard IP networking infrastructure in an enterprise solution. Judges wrote: “This is a feature-rich and high-quality solution that is very compatible in the higher education classroom.”
Crestron Electronics, Inc. AirMedia Connect Adaptor
The Crestron AirMedia Connect Adaptor is a one-touch, plug-and-play wireless presentation and meeting solution. Judges said: “Users can instantly join virtual meeting participants using their device of choice while taking advantage of the high-quality audio and video in-room peripherals.”
Gale, part of Cengage Group Gale Digital Scholar Lab
Gale Digital Scholar Lab is a cloud-based research environment designed to transform the way scholars and students access and analyze Gale primary source materials—and their local collections—by offering solutions to some of the most common challenges facing researchers in the digital humanities today. Judges wrote: “The Gale Digital Scholar Lab is a phenomenal resource for bridging scholarly research materials and content that is normally reserved for undergraduate or graduate students to high school research projects. I wish this tool existed long ago in my early college research days!”
Kaplan All Access License
Kaplan’s All Access License enables universities to provide their students with school-wide access to free test prep for graduate admissions exams, licensure, credentials and workforce readiness programs. Judges said: “This product is an ideal solution for students unable to pay for test prep courses, limiting their ability to successfully move on to the next level of their career or education.”
MaivenPoint Examena
MaivenPoint Examena is an AI-powered, smart exam administrator that empowers proctors to maintain exam integrity at scale, gives administrators AI-powered instant quiz creation capabilities and improves accessibility and convenience for candidates. Judges wrote: “While this product has not been used in the US market, it has the potential at both the higher ed and K12 levels.”
MaivenPoint Vitae
MaivenPoint Vitae is a SaaS system designed to digitize course management and streamline administrative processes so that continuous higher education is easy and accessible. Judges said: “This product would be valuable for educational institutions looking to streamline their administrative processes.”
NetSupport NetSupport School
NetSupport School provides a full classroom management and instruction tool to deliver meaningful lessons. With dedicated areas for instructors, students, and technicians, plus support for Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, Android and iOS, NetSupport School ensures maximum flexibility for users while allowing instructors to connect to students using different platforms. Judges wrote: “I would definitely add this to the list of tools to investigate.”
Planar Planar UltraRes L Series All-in-One LED display
The Planar UltraRes L Series All-in-One LED Display combines Planar’s best-in-class LCD features with award-winning direct view LED technology to deliver an all-in-one, easy-to-use display solution. Judges said: “The Planar UltraRes L Series All-in-One LED provides spectacular HD and 4K resolution over a very large area in classrooms, lecture halls, and auditoriums. With ever-increasing costs, the Planar UltraRes Series allows education facilities to implement a video-wall technology and elevate viewing experiences without breaking the bank.”
Samsung Electronics America WAC
The Samsung Interactive Display (WAC) is an interactive whiteboard that provides enhanced usability and specialized features for teachers and students to seamlessly collaborate. Judges wrote: “Not only does this Interactive Panel by Samsung offer stunning, vibrant displays of life-like content for learning, but this product is amazingly versatile in accepting content from many curriculum companies as well as converting lessons that were created using other brands of displays and other interactive software platforms.”
Science Interactive Group Science Interactive
Science Interactive offers more than 450 hands-on and digital lab experiments, and ready-made kits delivered to students’ doorsteps or campus bookstores. Judges said: “I appreciate that this product has taken into account the challenges of teaching and learning science based content in a virtual environment. The complement of online instruction with quality hands-on lab activities will greatly enhance the learning experience of higher ed students.”
Turnitin Turnitin’s AI writing detection feature
Turnitin's AI writing detector is specialized for student writing and is highly proficient in distinguishing between AI and human-written content. Judges wrote: “This is a very pioneering area and many AI detectors are producing many false positives. Turnitin is working hard to make sure that when they get it wrong (not if), then it will be an "underprediction" more often than not. I applaud Turnitin's honesty and commitment to integrity when it comes to AI biases.”
YouScience Discovery
YouScience Discovery is an aptitude-based, online guidance platform that leverages data and artificial intelligence to help individuals identify their aptitudes, validate their skills, and get matched with educational and career pathways. Judges noted: “YouScience Discovery goes beyond traditional career assessments by delving into a person's natural abilities, interests, and aptitudes. The platform utilizes a series of engaging and scientifically validated exercises to identify an individual's unique strengths, providing a comprehensive view of their potential career paths.”
