TinkRworks and 1st Maker Space Partner to Help Schools Bring STEAM to Life with Project-based Learning in Makerspaces

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TinkRworks and 1st Maker Space Partner to Help Schools Bring STEAM to Life with Project-based Learning in Makerspaces

EdCircuit Staff November 12, 2024

2 minutes read

ELMHURST, Ill. — Nov. 12, 2024 — Combining Project-based Learning (PBL) with makerspaces provides a powerful way to ignite students’ curiosity, develop their creativity and problem-solving skills, and create real-world connections to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). TinkRworks, which is known for its project-based STEAM curriculum for K-8 classrooms, and 1^st Maker Space, a leader in providing customized maker spaces and STEAM labs, have now partnered to provide schools with the innovative spaces and resources to empower students to learn through doing.

TinkRworks helps educators maximize these spaces with a collection of hands-on, skills-rich lessons, ready-to-teach project kits, and instructional resources that foster creativity and innovation. TinkRworks also offers a centralized learning portal for smooth integration making it easy to enhance instruction and help meet essential learning standards.

1^st Maker Space designs and develops makerspaces, providing the furniture, curriculum, tools, and professional development to implement and sustain hands-on learning. Together, the companies will provide schools with standards-aligned resources, while equipping educators with the skills and training necessary to succeed in these dynamic learning environments and bring STEAM learning to life.

“The collaboration with 1^st Maker Space is a natural fit,” said TinkRworks CEO Dr. Chad Stevens. “By integrating TinkRworks’ award-winning PBL curriculum and professional development resources with 1^st Maker Space’s fully-equipped, engaging makerspaces, we can elevate the STEAM learning experience for students while simplifying the planning and logistics for teachers and schools.”

“Hands-on learning is a proven way to learn and gain new skills, and we believe the best place to do that is in makerspaces,” said 1^st Maker Space President and Co-Founder, Kim Brand. “Our collaboration with TinkRworks will allow us to offer an array of new resources for teachers and students to help schools make their vision for STEAM education a reality.”

For more information, interested educators can learn more by visiting TinkRworks or 1^st Maker Space.

About TinkRworks

TinkRworks is a supplemental K-8 STEAM solution that supports project-based learning and transforms learners into innovators. It includes a standards-rich curriculum, innovative hands-on project kits, professional development, and a web-based learning platform and coding environment that students use to bring their projects to life. TinkRworks comes ready to teach and can be implemented in a variety of settings, including classrooms, makerspaces, after school programs, and summer school. For information, visit TinkRworks.com.

About 1st Maker Space

At 1st Maker Space we make learning come to life. As a leading provider of innovative makerspace solutions and hands-on learning experiences, we help learners of all ages and stages discover their thinkering through engaging, real-world application of standards-aligned curriculum and ongoing professional learning.

Recognized by STEM.org with the Accredited™ Educational Experience trustmark, from imagination to implementation, 1st Maker Space works hand-in-hand for hands-on education. Learn more at www.1stmakerspace.com.

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November 12, 2024

Maximizing Student Wellness with Artificial Intelligence: Tips and Strategies

EdCircuit Staff November 12, 2024

4 minutes read

Welcome to our guide on maximizing student wellness with artificial intelligence! As educators, we understand the importance of promoting the well-being of our students. With the advancements in technology, we now have the opportunity to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance our efforts in supporting student wellness. In this instructional piece, we will explore various tips and strategies on how to effectively incorporate AI into our practices to promote the overall wellness of our students. We approach this topic with the utmost respect for the well-being of our students and aim to provide practical and actionable advice for educators. Let’s dive in and discover how AI can revolutionize student wellness.

Maximizing Student Wellness with Artificial Intelligence: Tips and Strategies

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, it is no surprise that artificial intelligence (AI) is making its way into the education sector. AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach student wellness, by providing personalized and efficient support to students. With the help of AI, educators can now maximize student wellness and create a more positive and productive learning environment. In this article, we will discuss some tips and strategies for utilizing AI to its full potential in promoting student wellness.

1. Personalized Support

One of the key benefits of AI in promoting student wellness is its ability to provide personalized support. AI-powered tools can analyze data and patterns to understand each student’s unique needs and provide tailored recommendations. This can include personalized study plans, mental health support, and even nutrition and exercise plans. By catering to individual needs, AI can help students achieve their full potential and improve their overall well-being.

2. Early Intervention

AI can also play a crucial role in early intervention for students who may be struggling with mental health issues. By analyzing data and patterns, AI can identify students who may be at risk and provide early intervention strategies. This can include connecting students with counselors or providing resources for self-care. By catching potential issues early on, AI can prevent them from escalating and promote a healthier and more positive learning environment.

3. 24/7 Support

Unlike human counselors or teachers, AI-powered tools can provide support 24/7. This can be especially beneficial for students who may not have access to support outside of school hours or for those who may feel more comfortable seeking help from a non-judgmental AI. With 24/7 support, students can receive immediate assistance and support whenever they need it, promoting a sense of safety and security.

4. Data-Driven Insights

AI can also provide valuable insights into student wellness through data analysis. By collecting and analyzing data, AI can identify patterns and trends that may not be apparent to humans. This can help educators and counselors make informed decisions and develop effective strategies for promoting student wellness. With data-driven insights, educators can better understand their students’ needs and provide targeted support.

5. Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants powered by AI can also play a significant role in promoting student wellness. These assistants can provide students with reminders for important tasks, such as taking breaks, staying hydrated, or attending counseling sessions. They can also offer motivational messages and positive affirmations to boost students’ mood and promote a positive mindset. By acting as a virtual support system, these assistants can help students stay on track and maintain a healthy balance.

6. Gamification

Another way to utilize AI for promoting student wellness is through gamification. By incorporating game-like elements into wellness programs, AI can make the process more engaging and fun for students. This can include setting goals, earning points, and competing with peers. Gamification can motivate students to take care of their well-being and make it a more enjoyable experience.

7. Accessibility

AI can also improve accessibility for students with disabilities or learning differences. By providing personalized support and accommodations, AI can help these students overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. This can include providing audio or visual aids, personalized study plans, and even virtual assistants to assist with tasks. With AI, students with disabilities can have equal access to resources and support, promoting their overall well-being.

8. Collaboration with Educators

AI can also work hand in hand with educators to promote student wellness. By providing educators with data and insights, AI can help them identify students who may need extra support and develop strategies to address their needs. AI can also assist educators in creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment by providing resources and suggestions for promoting student wellness.

9. Privacy and Security

One concern with using AI for student wellness is privacy and security. It is essential to ensure that all data collected and analyzed by AI is kept confidential and secure. Educators and schools must have strict protocols in place to protect students’ personal information and ensure that it is not misused. By prioritizing privacy and security, AI can be used effectively and ethically to promote student wellness.

10. Constant Improvement

Lastly, it is crucial to remember that AI is constantly evolving and improving. As more data is collected and analyzed, AI will continue to provide more accurate and personalized support for students. It is essential to keep up with the latest advancements in AI and continuously evaluate its effectiveness in promoting student wellness. By staying updated and open to improvement, educators can maximize the benefits of AI for their students’ well-being.

AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach student wellness. By providing personalized support, early intervention, and 24/7 assistance, AI can promote a healthier and more positive learning environment. With data-driven insights, virtual assistants, and gamification, AI can make the process of promoting student wellness more engaging and effective. By collaborating with educators and prioritizing privacy and security, AI can be used ethically and effectively to maximize student wellness. As AI continues to evolve, it is essential to stay updated and open to improvement to fully utilize its potential in promoting student well-being.

Incorporating artificial intelligence into student wellness programs can greatly benefit students in their academic and personal lives. By utilizing AI technology, schools can provide personalized and efficient support to students, promoting their overall well-being. From tracking mental health to improving study habits, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach student wellness. By implementing the tips and strategies outlined in this article, schools can maximize the potential of AI and create a healthier and more successful learning environment for their students. Let us continue to explore and embrace the possibilities of AI in promoting student wellness, and ultimately, shaping a brighter future for our students.

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November 12, 2024

KidWind, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Wind Energy Technologies Office, Launches 2025 National Wind Energy Art Challenge

EdCircuit Staff November 12, 2024

2 minutes read

(Saint Paul, Minn.) November 12, 2024 – Supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Wind Energy Technologies Office, the KidWind Project, an international leader in clean energy education, is opening the call for entries for the 2025 National Wind Energy Art Challenge. The theme, “Beautiful Wind Energy,” will highlight the importance of wind energy and renewable energy education.

“After last year’s successful inaugural art challenge, we are excited to launch this year’s challenge with support from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Wind Energy Technologies Office,” said Michael Arquin, founder of KidWind. “With the plethora of submissions we had last year, it was extremely hard to choose. This year we will recognize four selections per grade instead of two so that we can highlight even more students’ artwork at the annual CLEANPOWER conference.”

The challenge is for K-8 students, while a teacher, coach, parent or guardian must fill out the form and provide contact information. Four entries from each grade (K-8) will be selected to have their work on display at the CLEANPOWER 2025 Conference & Exhibition in Phoenix, Arizona from May 19-22, 2025 alongside the World KidWind Challenge. These selected entries will also be framed, and the students will receive a plaque. Entrants also have the chance to receive an honorable mention which can include receiving a certificate or having their work displayed on KidWind’s website.

Students will create artwork on 8.5-by-11 or 11-by-17 sized paper displayed horizontally or vertically, both are accepted. Students must submit original artwork and only one submission per student (adults can submit applications for an unlimited number of students). Drawing and painting in any media is accepted (pencil, crayon, markers, watercolor, acrylic, or a combination). No computer-generated artwork or print will be accepted.

Artwork will be scored by a panel of judges on quality of submitted image, theme, knowledge and understanding, and creativity. Resources to help students learn more about wind energy and additional creative suggestions can be found on the art challenge’s website.

All work must be submitted through the online form by 12 p.m. CST on February 28, 2025. Early submissions are encouraged and may be temporarily displayed on the art challenge’s website.

This challenge is possible with support from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Wind Energy Technologies Office. For more information about KidWind and the art challenge, visit www.kidwind.org/art-challenge.

About the KidWind Project:
The KidWind Project, an international leader in clean energy education, has been working with educators and students to integrate renewable energy into classrooms for 20 years. Since 2004, KidWind has held more than 800 training events for more than 50,000 teachers all over the world. For more information about our trainings, challenges and curricular materials, visit www.kidwind.org.

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November 12, 2024

Otus & Discovery Education Join Forces to Empower Student Success Nationwide

EdCircuit Staff November 12, 2024

2 minutes read

Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC (Tuesday, November 12, 2024)— Otus, the leading K-12 assessment, data, and insights solution, and Discovery Education, the global leader in standards-aligned digital curriculum resources, today announced a new strategic partnership aimed at maximizing student achievement nationwide through the powerful combination of engaging content and state-of-the-art data analytics. Through this collaboration, Otus is now Discovery Education’s preferred platform for assessment, data, and learning insights.

Discovery Education’s school-based, K-12 partners who adopt Otus will be empowered to analyze assessment data from programs such as DreamBox Math and Science Techbook, alongside other district-level metrics, for a comprehensive view of student performance. As part of this partnership, Otus and Discovery Education have also aligned to explore additional future innovations, including an AI-powered curriculum assistant that can offer personalized learning experiences based on real-time student data.

“Discovery Education has long been a trusted provider of engaging, standards-aligned content that shapes the educational experiences of millions of students worldwide,” said Chris Hull, co-founder and president of Otus. “At Otus, we’re committed to ensuring every educator has the tools and insights they need to make a meaningful impact in students’ lives. By partnering with Discovery Education, we are excited to combine our strengths to offer schools an innovative solution that empowers educators to make data-driven decisions that drive student success and improve performance across the board.”

“Otus and Discovery Education are committed to creating collaborative, data-rich environments that lighten the workload for educators, scale best practice, and enhance learning outcomes for students,” said Brian Shaw, CEO of Discovery Education. “This exciting new partnership offers K-12 leaders nationwide an innovative new way to combine award-winning digital resources with meaningful and actionable data visualizations. We are looking forward to working with the talented team at Otus to support school systems across the country as they build the engaging modern learning environments today’s learners demand and deserve.”

For more information on the new collaboration between Otus and Discovery Education, click here.

For more information about how Otus provides educators with the insights they need to make confident, informed decisions that drive student growth, visit www.otus.com and stay connected to Otus on social media through X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

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, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

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November 12, 2024

CTE Cybersecurity On the Wire

H.I.G. Capital and Thoma Bravo to Acquire CompTIA Brand and Products

EdCircuit Staff November 12, 2024

5 minutes read

SAN FRANCISCO, MIAMI, and DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Nov. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — H.I.G. Capital (“H.I.G.”) and Thoma Bravo are pleased to announce the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire the brand and world-leading information technology (IT) certification and training business and products of the Computing Technology Industry Association (“CompTIA”).

CompTIA is a global leader in IT certifications and trainings, focused on promoting industry growth and skills development across the $5 trillion global IT ecosystem and its 38 million professionals. It provides comprehensive education, training, certifications, and market research, across areas including cybersecurity, emerging technologies, networking, cloud computing, and technical support. As the largest vendor-neutral credentialing program for technology workers, CompTIA has awarded over 3.5 million globally recognized certifications to professionals across the full range of technology companies. It also maintains a strong global partner program with thousands of academic institutions, non-profits, job corps centers, and other organizations, focused on developing and certifying the next generation of technology talent. Following the closing of the transaction, CompTIA will operate as a for-profit company under H.I.G. and Thoma Bravo’s ownership. Its existing membership-based, 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization will be separated from CompTIA and continue its mission of service to the IT industry.

“We are thrilled to be joining forces with two leading, experienced investors in the technology space, whose expertise and resources will allow us to expand our impact on the global IT industry,” said Todd Thibodeaux, President and CEO at CompTIA. “Through this transaction, we will be well-positioned to accelerate and expand the rollout of products and services to train the highly skilled workers of the future, and further strengthen our reputation across the industry as the leading provider of certifications and trainings.”

“The Association’s Board of Directors is very excited to be working with H.I.G. Capital and Thoma Bravo in this transformational process for the Association and also for the CompTIA business,” said Tracy Pound, Chair of CompTIA’s Board.

“This transaction will allow the Association to chart an expanded course of service to the global IT industry while making a substantial new commitment to charitable impact,” added Scott Barlow, Vice Chair of CompTIA’s Board.

“We are delighted to partner with Todd and the rest of the CompTIA team,” said Matthew Robinson, Managing Director at H.I.G. “We look forward to embarking together with management on CompTIA’s next phase of growth as a business fully dedicated to advancing the careers of IT professionals globally.”

“Global education is continually evolving to become more skills-based, and CompTIA is powering that shift with partnerships spanning academic institutions, private enterprises, government entities, and training delivery partners,” said Matt Hankins, Managing Director at H.I.G. “CompTIA’s educational training content and certifications are enabling people across the world to gain entry and advancement in the IT space to unlock personal earning potential.”

“The technology landscape is evolving quickly, and it is more important than ever that IT professionals have the skills needed to solve not only today’s challenges, but also those expected to emerge in the future,” said A.J. Rohde, Senior Partner at Thoma Bravo. “We view our investment in CompTIA as an important opportunity to capitalize on this growing need while investing in the development of the industry as a whole.”

“CompTIA is a trusted name in IT, with significant partnerships across sectors and industries,” said George Jaber, Principal at Thoma Bravo. “We look forward to working with CompTIA to invest in further developing its suite of industry-leading training and certification products, creating the next generation of resources that the industry needs while upholding CompTIA’s global reputation.”

The transaction is expected to close in early 2025 and is subject to customary regulatory approval.

Macquarie Capital, Ropes & Gray LLP, and Polsinelli LLP are serving as advisors to H.I.G. and Thoma Bravo. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor to CompTIA and Husch Blackwell LLP is serving as legal advisor.

About CompTIA

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is the world’s leading information technology (IT) certification and training body. CompTIA is a mission-driven organization committed to unlocking the potential of every student, career changer or professional seeking to begin or advance in a technology career. Millions of current and aspiring technology workers around the world rely on CompTIA for the training, education and professional certifications that give them the confidence and skills to work in tech. For more information, visit comptia.org.

About H.I.G. Capital

H.I.G. Capital is a leading global alternative investment firm with $65 billion of capital under management.* Based in Miami, and with offices in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco in the United States, as well as international affiliate offices in Hamburg, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Bogotá, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Dubai, and Hong Kong, H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to middle market companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused/value-added approach:

H.I.G.’s equity funds invest in management buyouts, recapitalizations, and corporate carve-outs of both profitable as well as underperforming manufacturing and service businesses.
H.I.G.’s debt funds invest in senior, unitranche, and junior debt financing to companies across the size spectrum, both on a primary (direct origination) basis, as well as in the secondary markets. H.I.G. also manages a publicly traded BDC, WhiteHorse Finance.
H.I.G.’s real estate funds invest in value-added properties, which can benefit from improved asset management practices.
H.I.G. Infrastructure focuses on making value-add and core plus investments in the infrastructure sector

Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 400 companies worldwide. The Firm’s current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $53 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at hig.com.

*Based on total capital raised by H.I.G. Capital and affiliates.

About Thoma Bravo

Thoma Bravo is one of the largest software-focused investors in the world, with approximately $160 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2024. Through its private equity, growth equity and credit strategies, the firm invests in growth-oriented, innovative companies operating in the software and technology sectors. Leveraging Thoma Bravo’s deep sector knowledge and strategic and operational expertise, the firm collaborates with its portfolio companies to implement operating best practices and drive growth initiatives. Over the past 20+ years, the firm has acquired or invested in more than 490 companies representing approximately US$265 billion in enterprise value (including control and non-control investments). The firm has offices in Chicago, London, Miami, New York and San Francisco. For more information, visit thomabravo.com.

Contacts

H.I.G.

Matthew Robinson

Managing Director

mrobinson@hig.com

Matt Hankins

Managing Director

mhankins@hig.com

Thoma Bravo

Megan Frank

Managing Director

Head of Communications and Marketing

mfrank@thomabravo.com

Akash Lodh

FGS Global

ThomaBravo-US@fgsglobal.com

CompTIA

Steven Ostrowski

Director, Corporate Communications

sostrowski@comptia.org

P: 630.678.8468

SOURCE H.I.G. Capital

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November 12, 2024

Middle Atlantic Launches NEXSYS™ Online UPS Backup Power Systems Series

EdCircuit Staff November 12, 2024

2 minutes read

FAIRFIELD, N.J. — Nov. 12, 2024 — Middle Atlantic Products, a brand of Legrand | AV, today announced the latest additions to its NEXSYS™ AV power distribution and backup platform, the NEXSYS Online UPS Series. The NEXSYS Online UPS carries forward the reliability, protection, and control that the platform introduced to the market, now in new options to fit today’s most demanding and sensitive AV systems. Available in 12 configurations, the NEXSYS Online UPS Series offers six or eight outlets with bank or individual outlet control, in 15 Amp 1000VA and 1500VA, 20 Amp 2000VA, and 30 Amp 3000VA models.

“NEXSYS provides the industry with power products designed, engineered, and built for AV, a Middle Atlantic promise on our power products for over two decades,” said Nyron Kahrim, Product Manager for Middle Atlantic UPS Power Products at Legrand | AV. “The new NEXSYS Online UPS family stands firm in that commitment. It’s built with premium components to keep AV systems running smoothly and reliably, even during power outages or anomalies.”

The Middle Atlantic NEXSYS Online UPS Series ensures a strong foundation for any AV system. The Energy Star-certified and U.S. Department of Energy-compliant solutions deliver pure sine wave output with an online, double-conversion topology with zero transfer time, providing the cleanest and most reliable power to connected equipment, especially the most sensitive. The series includes eight outlet models in either bank control with two four-outlet banks or individual control for all eight outlets, making it the first online UPS with individual outlet control in the AV market. The 3000VA models feature six outlets with individual outlet control or bank control. For bank control, the outlets are arranged into two banks with three outlets each that include six NEMA 5-20R outlets. The 3000VA models also include an additional NEMA L5-30R outlet that is not controlled but always on when the UPS is turned on.

Every unit comes assembled and connected right from the factory, saving integrators time during installation. With preinstalled rack ears with “4-Post” mounting brackets and a connected battery, installers can quickly mount and plug it in. Setting and notifications, such as battery replacement, can be customized via NEXSYS Power Management Software. In addition, the NEXSYS UPSs are RackLink™ compatible for remote monitoring and management including RackLink Cloud. Installers can easily access and service the hot-swappable battery from the front access panel without disrupting the system. They also include features to make cable management and serviceability a breeze. The UPSs offer a detachable IEC inlet to support any power cable length requirement and display important information — such as the serial number, IP address, MAC address, and replacement battery part number — on the LCD at the touch of a button. Also, installers can quickly reboot any device by controlling the outlets from the LCD (as well as remotely).

About Legrand | AV
The brands of Legrand | AV lead the industry with innovative connectivity, videoconferencing, mounting, racks, networking, power, and display solutions for various audiovisual technologies. Our innovative products, sold principally under the C2G, Chief, Connectrac, Da-Lite, Luxul, Middle Atlantic Products, Vaddio, and Wiremold brands, are sold through numerous channels. The brands of Legrand | AV provide the most comprehensive offering of AV solutions in the market. The company serves a broad base of over 6,000 global customers delivering amazing AV experiences.

Connect with Legrand | AV:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LegrandAV
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legrand-av/
X: https://twitter.com/LegrandAV
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClu1MPXS_EN3xUbHQ6gYj3A

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November 12, 2024

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