Spectrum K12 and CASE Announce 2008 Response to Intervention Survey Report

Contact: Sue Hanson Spectrum K12 School Solutions 410-616-0366 shanson@spectrumK12.com

TOWSON, MD — April 21, 2008 — Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc., the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education and the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) today announced the results of their 2008 survey of K-12 district administrators to gauge the level of adoption of Response to Intervention (RTI).

Spectrum K12 and the Council of Administrators of Special Education teamed up to determine the Response to Intervention rate of adoption, the effectiveness of RTI implementation and perceived critical implementation factors to provide a roadmap for districts nationwide.

The survey results indicate strong and rapid support for Response to Intervention with 60% of K-12 school districts either piloting RTI, in the process of a district-wide implementation or with RTI in district-wide use.

The survey results also indicate that RTI is being driven by a unified effort of general education and special education, although in most cases it was initiated by a leader or team in special education. Lack of teacher training was identified as the biggest obstacle to implementing RTI. The survey also showed 52% of the school districts responding see the highest tier as a combination of special education and other students needing intensive intervention.

“The survey results indicate critical elements of a successful RTI implementation include effective RTI training for teachers and software to manage activities, interventions and outcomes,” Spectrum K12 School Solutions’ CEO, Jim Marshall commented. “Our relationship with CASE has been instrumental in helping us identify, develop and provide districts with the tools they need to drive student achievement.”

“The data that was discovered in the RTI survey is invaluable to districts as they design their RTI strategies,” said Luann Purcell, Ed.D., CASE executive director. “This relationship with Spectrum K12 has been very attractive for both organizations. Together we are in the best position to provide more state of the art data to districts through more joint efforts.”

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About the Council of Administrators of Special Education

The Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) is an international professional educational organization which is affiliated with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted. The mission of CASE is to provide leadership and support to members by shaping policies and practices that impact the quality of education. For more information, visit http://www.casecec.org.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information and to see the full RTI survey report visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

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Spectrum K12 Partners with Thinkronize

Thinkronize Becomes ‘Sales Agent’ for Spectrum K12

TOWSON, Md. – April 15, 2008 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc., the leading provider of comprehensive management solutions for special populations in K-12 education, and Thinkronize, developers of netTrekker d.i.®, America’s #1 educational search engine that delivers high quality digital content at each child’s individual learning level, today announced a partnership designed to share complimentary products and services to better serve the special needs student as well as, their parents, teachers, and administrators.

Designed specifically for the K-12 education market, Encore ® Clarity helps school districts increase the effectiveness of their programs for special populations by automating time-consuming data collection and reporting processes, and reducing the paperwork burden. As data is entered, compliance requirements are automatically verified, ensuring that paperwork is completed accurately and on time. As a result, educators can spend more time in the classroom, focusing on improving student learning and achievement.

Thinkronize will be authorized to sell Encore Clarity and Spectrum K12’s highly acclaimed professional development and training offerings.

“Partnering with Thinkronize represents a significant opportunity for us as we continue to serve the special needs student, parent, teacher, and administration customer,” said Jim Marshall, President and CEO of Spectrum K12. “Current and future customers look to both Spectrum K12 and Thinkronize for solid products, services and premier customer service and support. Partnering with Thinkronize lets us immediately expand these capabilities to our customers, while also providing us with strong support to create new value-added services in a competitive market.”

“We’re pleased to work with the market leader in special education data management to provide solutions to educators and students. Our mission is to provide high quality educational tools and resources that help EVERY child achieve at his or her individual level. And, our partnership with Spectrum K12 School Solutions provides us with another opportunity to deliver on that goal,” said Randy Wilhelm, CEO of Thinkronize.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use IEP software and intervention software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

About Thinkronize

Founded in 1999, Thinkronize is a leader in the digital delivery of K-12 educational content and is dedicated to enhancing the education of today’s youth with highly effective technologies that deliver the rich educational value of the Internet to every child in a safe, relevant, easy-to-use format. With the mission to help every child learn and a belief that technology can transform education, Thinkronize was first to market with a standards-based educational search engine, utilizing the services of Academic Benchmarks (http://www.AcademicBenchmarks.com), the premier provider of comprehensive standards-based K-12 educational databases, alignment tools and integration products. Thinkronize’s flagship product, netTrekker d.i., is the #1 educational search engine in K-12 schools and is currently used in over 20,000 schools nationwide. The company’s consumer product, netTrekker home, gives parents and students whose school or district has not yet purchased a netTrekker d.i. subscription access to its 180,000+ educator-selected resources. Peers, educators and parents have honored Thinkronize and the netTrekker product suite 24 times for their contribution to education. Most recently, netTrekker d.i. was named the 2007 Best Education Solution in SIIA’s CODiE award competition. In addition, Thinkronize was named to the 2007 Inc. 5000 and 2006 Inc. 500 lists as one of the fastest growing private companies in the United States. The company was founded by Robert Reinders and currently serves over 11 million students in all 50 states, including adoptions by key districts and states nationwide. For more information visit www.Thinkronize.com or phone 877-517-1125.

About the netTrekker Product Suite

The netTrekker product line includes award-winning educational search products for both the education (netTrekker d.i.) and consumer (netTrekker home) markets. Unlike ordinary search engines, products from the netTrekker suite provide fast and easy access to only the best educational resources from the entire Internet in a safe, organized, standards-aligned format. Using netTrekker search products, educators, school librarians, students and parents save valuable time because they are directed to relevant, reliable, educator-selected Web sites every time – meaning less time spent on searching and more time focused on teaching, learning and achieving. For more information about the netTrekker product suite, visit www.netTrekker.com.

Pittsburgh Public School District Chooses Spectrum K12 School Solutions

TOWSON, MD– April 14, 2008 – Pittsburgh Public Schools has adopted Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc.’s special education IEP software product Encore®. Encore will create a powerful and effective system of administrative reporting and tracking for students who need special services throughout the district.

Pittsburgh Public Schools had been primarily paper-based and entering special education IEP and reporting data by hand. Spectrum K12’s Encore software will provide them with a solution that ensures better compliancy, improved data integrity and management as well as a real-time system that will streamline and manage the entire workflow process.

Encore helps school systems dramatically improve special education management by eliminating mistakes in IEP compliance, saving training time, eliminating duplicate data entry, providing ease of access to centralized information and – ultimately – saving of hundreds of dollars per student.

The electronic system will help the Pittsburgh Public Schools streamline operations, provide accountability, allow staff to access data whenever and wherever, and ensure the District is in compliance with federal and state mandates.

“The purchase of the Encore software helps us meet our Excellence for All agenda goal of efficient and effective support operations,” stated Mary Jane Conley, Program Officer, Special Education. “Another major reason we chose Encore was because this solution provides us with a complete and accurate integration with our existing student information system.”

“We are excited that the Pittsburgh Public Schools has joined the expanding list of leading districts using Spectrum K12’s Encore special education and IEP software,” said Jim Marshall, President and CEO at Spectrum K12. “Pittsburgh Public Schools selection of Spectrum K12 after a comprehensive review of available solutions is a strong vote of confidence in our products, support services, and our team.”

About Pittsburgh Public Schools

Pittsburgh is the largest of 43 school districts in Allegheny County and second largest in Pennsylvania. The District serves 28,265 students in Kindergarten through Grade 12 in 65 schools. In addition, Early Childhood programs serve three- and four-year-olds in 95 classrooms across the city.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

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Spectrum K12’s Encore IEP Software Re-Endorsed by CASE

TOWSON, MD — April 07, 2008 —Spectrum K12’s Encore® Special Education product has been re-endorsed by the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE). Encore was the first special education administration software to be endorsed by CASE and is now the first to be re-endorsed by CASE.

Encore is the leading special education and IEP software suite serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population, including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States.

Encore received the official endorsement of the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE), in April 2005 after a rigorous and comprehensive review to ensure the solution met or exceeded criteria that included a strong research base to support the product, proven effectiveness, and enhancement of professional practice as advocated by CASE/CEC policies and standards.

The official re-endorsement was announced at the CASE membership meeting during the CEC Annual Conference in Boston, MA April 2-5, 2008. “With Encore, Spectrum K12 sets a new benchmark in special education IEP software. We are pleased to re-endorse Spectrum K12’s Encore,” said Luann Purcell, Ed.D., CASE executive director. “Spectrum K12 has a long history of managing the special education process and data and providing leading K-12 school districts with a tremendous return on their investment.”

“The Council of Administrators of Special Education are the definitive thought leaders in the field of Special Education because of their leadership in shaping policies and practices which impact the quality of education for all students,” stated Jim Marshall, CEO of Spectrum K12 School Solutions. “It is an extreme honor to once again be endorsed by CASE as a leader in providing powerful technology driven solutions to support districts in managing the complicated compliance regulations inherent in the special education process.”

Designed specifically for the K-12 education market, Encore uses effective business practices and proven data and process management systems to help districts eliminate compliance issues, reduce the paperwork burden, improve staff morale and support successful achievement of individual education program goals — directly and positively impacting student learning.

About the Council of Administrators of Special Education

The Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) is an international professional educational organization which is affiliated with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) whose members are dedicated to the enhancement of the worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness of each individual in society. The mission of CASE is to provide leadership and support to members by shaping policies and practices that impact the quality of education. For more information, visit http://www.casecec.org.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

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District Administration Magazine March 2008

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Spectrum K12 and the National Alliance of Black School Educators Host Special Education Institute

Towson, MD., March 6, 2008 - Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc., the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education and the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) the nation’s premiere non-profit organization devoted to furthering the academic success for the nation’s children - particularly children of African descent, today announced that they have expanded their strategic partnership to increase learning opportunities and accountability for special needs students.

Under a new partnership Spectrum K12 School Solutions and NABSE will host their inaugural Special Education Institute on March 6, 2008 in Washington D.C. at the Washington Court Hotel.

The Special Education Institute will provide a depth of understanding of:

How to effectively conduct IDEA 2004-mandated IEP resolution sessions.

How to implement essential facilitation skills for the IEP team meeting process that can improve collaboration, consensus building, and the creation of responsive educational learning plans for students.

How to hold compliant IEP meetings, develop positive relationships between staff and parents, significantly reduce due process hearings, and improve staff morale.

“This partnership brings the power to provide “Support Programs” through business leaders, which is an essential component to “Moving every student forward,” said Jim Marshall, CEO and President of Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. “We look forward to continuing to advance the goal of helping improve the educational capacity of educators to better manage the environment for students who are performing in less than satisfactory ways. We want to provide assistance to help remedy the situation together.”

“This partnership targets our specific concerns for addressing the over-representation of African American students and others who are referred to special education, and for the effective instruction and planning that is needed for students who may be in most need,” said Quentin R. Lawson, Executive Director, NABSE. “We intend to identify, then alleviate, and document needs and responses to improving student achievement with the help of such partners as Spectrum K12 School Solutions.”

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

About The National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE)

The National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) is the nation’s premiere non-profit organization devoted to furthering the academic success for the nation’s children - particularly children of African descent. Now in its 36th year, NABSE boasts an outreach to more than 10,000 preeminent educators including teachers, administrators, superintendents as well as corporate and institutional members. Founded in 1970, by Dr. Charles D. Moody, Sr., NABSE is dedicated to improving both the educational experiences and accomplishments of African American youth through the development and use of instructional and motivational methods that increase levels of inspiration, attendance and overall achievement.

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Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc. Expands National Presence in Atlanta

TOWSON, Md. — March 3, 2008—Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc., the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education today announced the opening of its new Atlanta, Georgia office.

“The decision to open this office was motivated by Spectrum’s rapid growth in providing cutting-edge technology and data management solutions to our nation’s schools,” stated Jim Marshall, President and CEO of Spectrum K12. “Atlanta is well-known for their strong pool of well-educated, talented professionals with the right level of expertise in technology and education, so it made sense for Spectrum K12 to select Atlanta for our corporate expansion.”

As part of the grand opening activities, Spectrum K12 is hosting a reception to celebrate Georgia’s Exceptional Children’s Week. The reception will showcase the outstanding Spectrum K12 special education solutions that are being provided by Fulton County Schools, Clayton County Public Schools and Effingham’s Public Schools in the Atlanta area.

“By integrating world-class creative thought leadership in special education and technology we will continue to attract amazing talent to this regional office, and create a new genre of services where we deliver cutting edge, next-generation educational experiences,” said Steve Benfield, CTO and VP Product Management of Spectrum K12.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

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Spectrum K12 School Solutions Named Finalist for 2008 Codie Awards

TOWSON, Md. — Feb.19, 2008— Spectrum K12 School Solutions has been named a finalist for the 2008 Codie Awards as “Best Education Solution.” Established by the Software & Information Industry Association, the Codie Awards are among the most prestigious in the software industry, showcasing the finest software and digital content products and services across a wide variety of categories. Award winners will be announced May 20, 2008 at the 23rd Annual CODiE Awards Gala in San Francisco, Calif.

Spectrum K12 earned finalist consideration for its Web-based Encore IEP Service Assurance product, a unique audit-defensible mechanism to reconcile services provided against prescribed services by documenting all pertinent services provided to a student based on the prescription in the IEP.

“We are honored to be a finalist for such a prestigious award and to once again be recognized by the education industry as a leader in providing educators with the essential tools that are needed for student success,” said Jim Marshall, president and CEO of Spectrum K12 School Solutions. “This award recognizes our commitment to provide the most effective management tools that individualize the learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions.”

"Competition is tough this year and that makes selection as a CODiE Finalist a real achievement," said Ken Wash, SIIA president. "All the companies on this year’s list should feel justifiably proud of their recognition."

For a list of finalists, visit http://www.siia.net/codies/2008/finalists.asp

About SIIA

The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 800 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit www.siia.net.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

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Spectrum K12 and Horn, Smith, Wood & Preston Honor First Woman Commissioner of Education in Texas

Towson, MD., 02/14/2008-Dr. Shirley Neely, former Texas Commissioner of Education and longtime Texas educator, was honored at the Women of Educational Distinction Awards February 13, 2008 in Dallas, Texas. The award ceremony, “Ladies Tributes” is sponsored by Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc., the nation’s leading provider of special education and IEP management software and Horn, Smith, Wood & Preston, by Texas Superintendent Consulting firm.

Dr. Neely, a Galena Park, Texas resident, was named the first woman Commissioner of Education for the state Texas Governor Rick Perry in 2004. In 2006, Dr. Neely was also inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame for her outstanding work in the field of education. She has been a committed educator of 35 years and a chief advocate for superior schools with a dedicated focus on ensuring all children are taught the necessary skills needed to become lifelong learners.

“We are honored to recognize Dr. Neely - a life long educator, a national public servant and someone who cares deeply about our children,” stated Jim Marshall, President and CEO of Spectrum K12. “She joins a distinguished list of education visionaries who are committed to raising the profile of education and focus on the needs of children in Texas.”

The annual Women of Educational Distinction Awards honors individuals and organizations that have “reached out” to impact the achievement of all students with an increased focus on helping disadvantaged and at-risk children and families in our nation.

“Dr. Neely’s educational leadership and enthusiasm is an inspiration to all future Texas leaders,” said Jenny Preston, of Horn, Smith, Wood & Preston. “Her legacy will continue to motivate and guide future women educational leaders of Texas to strive for excellence everyday.”

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions
Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

Governor Branstad Elected a Director of Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc.

TOWSON, MD– February 12, 2008 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. today announced former Iowa Governor Terry E. Branstad has joined the board of directors of Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc.

“Governor Branstad’s experience is extensive and impressive. We are extremely pleased to have the Governor serving on our board. He will bring a keen intellect, strong business acumen, national education experience and fresh perspectives that will serve Spectrum K12 and our shareholders well,” said Spectrum K12 CEO, Jim Marshall.

Governor Branstad, President of Des Moines University since 2003, currently leads the nation’s second oldest osteopathic medical college. He served four consecutive terms as Governor of Iowa, from 1983-1999. When elected, he was the youngest governor in Iowa history; and, when he left office, he was Iowa’s longest-serving governor. On the national level, Governor Branstad served as chairman of the National Governors Association in 1989, leading the efforts of the historic national education summit in Charlottesville, Va. In 1997 he was chairman of the Republican Governors Association and from 1997-1998 he was chairman of the Education Commission of the States where his agenda was “Harnessing technology for teaching and learning.” While in office, Governor Branstad made education a top priority of his administration.

In addition to his efforts in restoring Iowa’s economic stature, he emphasized the need for all children in the state to receive the highest quality education, no matter what their ability and circumstances of birth. He led the effort that built a statewide fiber optics network to provide distance-learning opportunities to every school district, college and university in the state of Iowa.

After leaving the governor’s office in 1999, Governor Branstad established Branstad and Associates, L.C., and became a partner in the firm of Kaufman, Pattee, Branstad & Miller, a public policy firm based in Washington, D.C., with offices in West Des Moines, Denver, Boston, and Las Vegas.

Governor Branstad was appointed by President George W. Bush to chair the President’s Commission for Excellence in Special Education. The commission was charged with studying issues related to federal, state and local special education programs for students and resulted in major recommendations that framed the re-authorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 2004.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

Spectrum K12 Launches Response to Intervention (RTI) Needs Analysis

TOWSON, Md. – January 24, 2008 –Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc., the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education today announced the launch of a comprehensive RTI Needs Analysis. Beginning today, school districts can optimize their data as they work to build school and district capacity in core areas associated with improved performance and student achievement.

The Spectrum K12 RTI Needs Analysis features include:

An analysis of district’s current academic interventions implemented for at-risk students.

An analysis of school district’s RtI process, if in place.

Debriefing session, “Interventions Analysis,” with school or district leaders to discuss the findings and how they can be used to plan for effective classroom instruction, professional development, and school improvement.

One day professional development training on “Response to Intervention” that focuses on the specific needs of the schools based on the results of the “Interventions Analysis”.

“The launch of our RTI Needs Analysis service is part of a broader strategy to assist districts decide how to invest their limited educational resources,” said Jim Marshall, CEO, Spectrum K12. “The RTI Needs Analysis has allowed administrators and educators to individualize improvement strategies that will have the greatest impact on classroom learning.”

In addition, Spectrum K12 offers professional development training in how to implement a Response to Intervention model in a school district.

techLEARNING, January 2008

Dr. Douglas Brooks, a professor in the School of Education, Health and Society at Miami University, has joined with Spectrum K12 to develop GrantSuccess - an easy to use, repeatable process that gives school districts an effective way to train personnel to write successful grants. He provides some grant writing insights, skills and tips for beginners in techLEARNING.

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Spectrum K12 School Solutions Names Director of Channel Management

TOWSON, MD– January 22, 2008 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. today named Joanie Pond Director of Channel Management. As a member of Spectrum’s Corporate Development team, headed by Vice President Carmi Paris, Pond will be responsible for the strategic growth and supervision of the partner channel to raise the quality of products and services available to the K12 special population community.

“Joanie is one of the most highly respected and effective managers in the education marketplace today,” Marshall stated. “We are thrilled and honored to have her accept such a key position as we continue to build our incredible foundation of leadership. Joanie will further enhance our ability to partner with other award-winning companies across a complete range of education platforms.”

Pond comes to Spectrum K12 from Microsoft, where she served as the Strategic Account Manager for the largest K12 school districts in the Mid-Atlantic. Prior to joining Microsoft, Joanie spent over ten years with Apple Computer where her leadership was instrumental in delivering the nation’s largest 1:1 laptop learning initiative in K12 education by partnering with the Henrico County Public Schools in Virginia.

“Joining the team of Spectrum K12 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I am honored to be chosen to bring the Spectrum K12 solutions to help even more special education and at-risk kids.” said Pond. “I look forward to helping Spectrum K12 continue to excel in both partnership development and in building an incredible team culture. I’m proud and excited to be a part of a company with such a great future.”

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

Round Rock Independent School District Chose Encore to Manage Programs for Specials Populations

TOWSON, Md. – November 19, 2007 – Round Rock Independent School district, second largest school district in Texas’ Region 13, located outside Austin, Texas, selected Spectrum School Solutions, Inc. to provide a comprehensive, Web-based solution for managing programs for special populations. Round Rock implemented Spectrum School Solutions’ Encore™ program to manage data and individualized education plans (IEPs) for students receiving special services or interventions.

“Our district’s goal is to move to a more technology driven philosophy, so, with this new philosophy in sight, we researched computerized special education programs that would meet our district’s needs and leave behind our old way of completing ARDs (IEPs) by hand,” stated Round Rock ISD’s Director of Special Education Linda Noy. “We also wanted a system that would be easily accessible to our teachers and that would reduce the time they spent on paperwork and ARD (IEP) meetings while increasing their time in the classroom.”

Endorsed by the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE), and designed specifically for the K-12 education market, Encore serves districts with enrollments ranging from 300 to over 300,000 students. Founded in 1994, Spectrum K12 provides school districts with solutions designed to close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students by more effectively managing the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions.

“With Encore, we decreased the number of data clerks we needed to assist with paperwork from 21.5 to 12. Now we do not need as many individuals spending their time checking for complete ARDs (IEPs) and searching for data,” stated Round Rock ISD’s Deputy Superintendent of Instruction Toni Garcia. “We were able to reallocate those staff into positions that can work directly with the students.”

“Being able to align to our state reporting system, PEIMS, was crucial in our selection of Encore. Encore allows us to track and manage student data in a very concise way,” exclaimed Noy. “We also want to make certain that our special education process is in compliance. Encore’s built-in compliance checks prompt the user when something isn’t compliant so it can be corrected. With Encore, we can also build prompts into the system to meet the way we conduct the special education process in our district.”

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and Individualized Education Program (IEP) management software serving approximately 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

Spectrum K12 VP Elected to SIIA Education Board

Washington, DC (Nov. 15, 2007) - The Software & Information Industry Association today announced the new members of its Education Division Board of Directors. Fourteen executives from SIIA member companies will join seven of their peers to provide the ed tech industry with leadership, advocacy, and critical market information.

These executives will represent more than 160 member companies that provide software, digital content and other technologies for educational needs. Eight have been elected to serve two-year terms and six have been appointed to serve one-year terms. As members of the Education Board of Directors, they develop and prioritize the Division’s initiatives and determine the projects, activities and events to be undertaken each year. The newly elected board members serving two-year terms are:

Ellen Bialo, President, Interactive Educational Systems Design, Inc. (IESD)

Todd Brekhus, Vice President, Product Market Management, PLATO Learning

Lil Kellogg, Vice President, Education Networks of America (ENA)

Michael Golden, Vice President, Administration and Planning, Pearson

Scott Kirkpatrick, President, Houghton Mifflin Learning Technology, Houghton Mifflin Company

Carmi Paris, Vice President, Corporate Development, Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc

Farimah Schuerman, Managing Partner, Academic Business Advisors, LLC

Pat Walkington, President, Pat Walkington Education Sales & Marketing

The newly appointed board members serving one year terms are:

Valerie Crawford, Senior Research Scientist, SRI International

Kurt Gerdenich, VP, Director of Development, Cengage Learning

Eileen Lento, Lead K12 Strategist, Intel Corporation

Jeffrey Schultz, Vice President, McGraw Hill Higher Education

Steve Siegel, Group VP, Strategy and Business Development, Follett

Stuart Udell, Chief Executive Officer, Penn Foster (SIIA Board Liaison)

The seven board members serving the second year of their two-year terms are:

Karen Cator, Director, Education Leadership, Apple

Andrew Flanagan, Chief Executive Officer, eSchoolMall

Bridget Foster, Manager, Technology Products, Key Curriculum Press

Midian Kurland, Vice President, Technology and Development, Scholastic Education

Pamela Nelson, General Manager, College Board/Springboard

Mona Westhaver, President and Co-Founder, Inspiration Software, Inc.

Bruce Wilcox, K-12 Strategist, SMARTHINKING

"The Education Division grows stronger each year. The strength of this new board suggests that this growth in membership and participation will continue through 2008," said Ken Wasch, SIIA president.

Karen Billings, SIIA Education Division Vice President, added "Once again, we had a record number of nominations, all of whom would have been excellent additions to the board. I was impressed by the strongest voter turn-out on record and excited by the high level of member involvement in the Education Division. I look forward to working with each member of the new board."

About SIIA

The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 800 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit http://www.siia.net.

About SIIA Education Division

SIIA’s Education Division serves and represents over 150 member companies that provide software, digital content and other technologies that address educational needs. The Division shapes and supports the industry by providing leadership, advocacy, business development opportunities and critical market information. SIIA provides a neutral business forum for its members to understand business models, technological advancements, market trends, and best practices. With the leadership of the Division Board and collaborative efforts with educators and other stakeholders, the Division undertakes initiatives to enhance the use of educational technology and the success of SIIA members.

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Strengthens Technology Team

TOWSON, MD– November 12, 2007 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. today announced that it has named Ram Venkataraman Director of Architecture, Office of the CTO. Venkataraman brings more than 17 years experience as a proven technology architect and innovator. Mr. Venkataraman will be responsible for the overall technology architecture of all Spectrum K12 products.

Most recently, Venkataraman was Director of Product Management at Red Hat and managed the JBoss Enterprise Middleware stack; he was instrumental in helping transform JBoss’s open source projects into enterprise grade platforms. He also drove the creation of the Red Hat Developer’s Program and tooling strategy.

Before that, Venkataraman was CTO of ClearNova, a maker of rapid development tools for Java developers. ClearNova’s ThinkCAP JX product was the first open-source AJAX-based J2EE RAD tool in the marketplace. While at ClearNova, Venkataraman also architected and drove a major solution for Carlson Wagonlit Government Travel to handle travel reservations & billing for the federal government. In his spare time, he co-authored AJAX in Practice.

"Ram is the seasoned technology veteran that is perfectly suited to steer Spectrum K12 to great heights as we provide districts with greater capacity building in core areas associated with improved student achievement and compliance within special education," stated Jim Marshall, CEO of Spectrum K12. "His dedication to and knowledge of state-of-the-art technology will make an immediate impact on improving the educational quality and results for districts dealing with the complexities of special needs and at-risk populations."

Venkataraman said, "Spectrum K12 is dedicated to fostering growth and innovation and we believe we can make a lasting impact on education. It’s this mission that I’m most proud to be a part of and am honored to lead."

Deaf Education Program at Texas Woman’s University and Spectrum K12 Solutions Inc. Partner

TOWSON, MD. – October 11, 2007 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc, the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education and the Deaf Education Program at Texas Woman’s University today announced that their efforts to train future teachers of the deaf to use Encore to create successful, federally compliant Individual Education Plans (IEP)/ Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) packets has exceeded all expectations.

“Graduates of the deaf education program are now able to enter the teacher workforce prepared to develop effective, legally compliant IEP packets because of their experience with Encore,” stated Dr. Chad Smith, Director of Deaf Education and Assistant Professor, Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders at TWU. “Encore has provided the TWU Deaf Education teacher preparation faculty the assurance that future deaf education teachers will be able to readily address academic concerns and IEP issues that will arise among their own students,” stated Smith.

In an effort to promote both the IEP development and ARD process, TWU contacted Spectrum K-12 to secure access to the Encore data management system. The plan included teaching the system as a whole, and then using it in various courses in the degree plan. Students were required to review the system, to create appropriate IEP goals, develop appropriate coursework and lesson plans, and to create federally compliant ARD/IEP packets. Encore was also incorporated into Literacy and Deafness, Speech for the Deaf, Language and Deafness, and Parent- Professional Communication courses.

“Helping TWU expand their teacher preparation programs with practical, hands-on training of the IEP/ARD process and compliance using our market leading product, Encore, was the impetus behind this new strategic alliance,” stated Spectrum K12 CEO, Jim Marshall. "Working with TWU is an integral part of Spectrum K12’s ongoing mission to show the next generation of teachers how software like Encore ensures compliance while streamlining the IEP/ARD process so they can focus more time on student achievement.”

TWU and Spectrum K12 both support the significance of graduating truly high quality educators and understand that the process of teacher education has never been greater.

See Dr. Smith’s powerpoint from his presentation at the Deaf Education conference

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving approximately 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

About Encore

Designed specifically for the K-12 education market, Encore helps school districts increase the effectiveness of their programs for all special populations by ensuring compliance, automating time-consuming data collection and reporting processes, and reducing the paperwork burden. The comprehensive, Web-based software solution serves as a foundation for managing all phases of the individualized education plan (IEP) process for both general and special populations. As data is entered, compliance requirements are automatically verified, ensuring that paperwork is completed accurately and on time. As a result, educators can spend more time in the classroom, focusing on improving student learning and achievement. Learn more...

About Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University occupies a notable position in higher education as the nation’s largest university primarily for women. Its four campuses in Denton, Dallas and Houston are joined by a fifth “e-Learning” campus that offers innovative online degree programs in business, education, and general studies. Six consecutive semesters of enrollment growth have produced a record enrollment of 12,183 students. www.twu.edu

Tennessee’s Disability Coalition on Education Director Named Special Ed Advocate Extraordinaire

Towson, MD., October 18, 2007 –Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc, the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education today announced ms. holly lu conan rees as the recipient of their 2007 "Special Education Advocate Extraordinaire Award.”

Her focus and desire to see all students succeed, was recognized today at the Spectrum K12 School Solution award ceremony at the National School Board Association T&L conference in Nashville.

holly lu has been a strong advocate on behalf of families with children with disabilities for nearly two decades. She founded and continues to chair the Tennessee statewide Disability Coalition on Education, and she is also an active member of the “Advocacy For the Rights of Individuals With Disabilities Organization" also known as the Mother’s From Hell organization.

“I am proud to receive this prestigious award but the real star is my son, Samuel. He has been my inspiration since the day he was born 24 years ago with a rare chromosomal anomaly, Ring Chromosome 15,” stated ms. conan rees. “All of us who work with children are constantly presented with challenges that involve informed decision-making, care, and risk. It has been a great privilege to concentrate on meeting those challenges head on, facing the risks together and strengthening informed decisions to ensure that we can improve education for ALL students.”

"holly lu is a passionate ambassador for families and students in special education. We are pleased to honor her commitment and devotion so that all children can reach their fullest potential,” stated Jim Marshall, CEO of Spectrum K12. “I commend holly lu for always questioning and always wrestling to define and redefine endlessly what the word “education” should mean for ALL students.”

About Spectrum K12’s Special Education Advocate Extraordinaire Award

The Special Education Advocate Extraordinaire Award program was created in 2007 as a way for Spectrum K12 to recognize the efforts of non-traditional advocates of families and students involved in special education. Award winners demonstrate an extra measure of commitment as teachers, researchers, community members, parents, public officials, administrators or friends of education who advocate in securing education for every child. Ideally the winner has made a meaningful impact on the awareness and importance of special education through a commitment of time, personal involvement, and passion. For more information go to: http://www.spectrumk12.com/advocate_award

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

Spectrum K12 Solutions Inc. Proud Sponsor of the 2007 Intel® Schools of Distinction Award

TOWSON, MD. – October 10, 2007 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc, the leading provider of comprehensive data management solutions for special populations in K-12 education today announced their sponsorship award package for the six winning schools of the 2007 Intel® Schools of Distinction Award. Spectrum K12 joined the Intel Foundation and other sponsors as they honored each school’s extraordinary commitment to educational excellence and innovation.

Spectrum K12 presented their Schools of Distinction Sponsorship Award Package to the recipient schools at the Intel awards gala on October 4, 2007 in Washington, D.C. The Spectrum K12 Award package included:

The Spectrum K12 Needs Analysis on the effectiveness of each school’s Response to Intervention strategies.

This analysis identifies the effectiveness of interventions used with at-risk students and reviews the data collection system(s) used to monitor progress on those interventions. Spectrum K12’s educational software captures, monitors and analyzes the required data and information necessary for Response to Interventions.

Spectrum K12 customized Response to Intervention: from Theory to Practice Professional Development Training.

The RtI training is an opportunity for an entire staff to learn how to use a systematic approach to transform evidenced based research into practical intervention strategies for at-risk students. The training additionally focuses on how an effective RtI program can benefit at-risk students and result in increased student achievement results.

The winning schools for Mathematics Excellence are Balboa Elementary, San Diego, Sewell Middle School, Bremen, Ga., and Bergen Academies-Hackensack, Hackensack, N.J. The winning schools for Science excellence are Escalante Elementary School, Salt Lake City, Conyers Middle School, Conyers, GA. and Greenhills School, Ann Arbor.

“Spectrum K12 is honored to be a sponsor of the 2007 Intel School(s) of Distinction Awards. The schools that were presented with this prestigious award have worked extremely hard to achieve high academic standards for all students,” states Jim Marshall, CEO of Spectrum K12. “We recognize and commend the winning schools as they understand the tie between school excellence and the desire to have special education, at-risk and ALL students achieve to their ability.”

Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc. Launches Educational Webinar Series

Towson, MD., 09/25/2007 - Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc, provider of the patented, special education and IEP management Encore® software, today announced they have teamed up with nationally recognized education and technology experts to host a dynamic new webinar series. The series is designed to bring lessons learned and real-world best practices to school administrators, teachers, and IT professionals.

"Successful Grant Writing" will kick off the Webinar Series on October 3rd, 2007 at 3:00 PM EST. Presented by expert Dr. Douglas Brooks, tenured full professor within the Department of Teacher Education at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, this webinar will provide an overview of best practices in how to more effectively respond to grant proposals and greatly increase the probability of creating successful grant applications. This webinar will introduce novice and experienced grant writers to a proven, innovative, team-based 4 stage/32 step model for creating successful grant applications. Dr. Brooks has written over $8.5 million in successful technology integration grants for schools across the nation.

The second webinar in the series, “A Special Educator’s Guide to NCLB and State Standards” presented by Cindy Atlas, M Ed Education Solutions Strategist, Spectrum K12 School Solutions will be held on October 16, 2007. This webinar highlights the key role NCLB plays in educating at-risk and special education students today. Educational leaders will take away practical tips for utilizing state standards & high stakes testing data as a guide for instructional change to achieve student success.

“Standards Based Goals, Objectives and Benchmarks,” the third webinar in the series will be hosted by Ginger Sewell, November 28, 2007. Sewell is a Facilitated Individual Education Plan (IEP) trainer with extensive experience in building strong teams while minimizing conflict reduction in special education.

Each webinar is free of charge and will be presented live at 3:00 PM EST. Scheduled to be one hour in length, the sessions will include an interactive Q&A session. To register: www.spectrumk12.com/resources/webinars.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving approximately 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc. Secures $5.7M in Expansion Funding

Towson, MD., 09/11/2007 - Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc, provider of Encore® the leading special education and Individualized Education Program (IEP) management software, today announced it has secured an additional round of venture funding led by Updata Partners and Novak Biddle Venture Partners. The funding will be used to accelerate development and marketing of Spectrum K12’s patented, award-winning solutions for K-12 school districts.

Founded in 1994, Spectrum K12 provides school districts with solutions designed to close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students by more effectively managing the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 has received recognition from leading organizations including EdNet and the Software & Information Industry Association and is endorsed by the Council of Administrators of Special Education.

"The market for K-12 education technology solutions is rapidly expanding,” said Roger Novak, General Partner with Novak Biddle. “We are excited about Spectrum K12’s product vision and ability to leverage proven technology to extend their market leadership.”

"With their award-winning solution, strong management team and extensive customer list of leading K-12 districts, Spectrum K12 has a formula for great success," said Tim Meyers, General Partner of Updata. “Expanding marketing and selling efforts will further increase Spectrum K12’s rate of growth and bring the benefits of Spectrum K12’s solutions to an even larger set of school districts and students.”

“We are thrilled Updata and Novak Biddle have validated our view of the market opportunity and Spectrum K12’s leadership position,” Jim Marshall, President and CEO of Spectrum K12 added. “Our long history of delivering value to our customers and our continuous innovation are proof points for why we are the leader in our market. With this investment we are able to expand our product development, sales and marketing so we can help K-12 school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students.”

About Updata Partners

Based in Reston, Virginia and Edison, New Jersey, Updata Partners is a leading venture capital firm that invests in growth stage information technology companies with innovative intellectual property enabling market-leading products and services. Led by an investment team averaging more than 20 years of operational and private equity experience in the technology industry, we seek investments where the combination of our financial backing and operating expertise will accelerate growth. With over $400 million under management, the firm also selectively provides recapitalization and management buyout financing. For more information, please visit http://www.updatapartners.com.

About Novak Biddle

Venture Partners Novak Biddle Venture Partners is a leading early stage venture capital firm focused on unique, cutting-edge technology investments in the Eastern United States, as well as targeted opportunities nationwide. With $580 million under management, Novak Biddle operates five venture funds that currently provide equity financing and management assistance to 42 portfolio companies. Novak Biddle continues to seek business situations where the combination of ideas, dollars, experience, and relationships can create long term, sustainable value. A sampling of companies funded by Novak Biddle include: RFID first-mover Matrics, voice over IP trailblazer Telogy, education technology leader Blackboard Inc. and intelligent video surveillance pioneer ObjectVideo. For more information, visit http://www.novakbiddle.com.

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Names Steve Benfield Chief Technology Officer

TOWSON, MD– August 13, 2007 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. today announced that it has named Steve Benfield Chief Technology Officer. Benfield brings more than 20 years experience as a proven technology visionary, evangelist, architect, and educator. Steve is responsible for product management, technology innovation, and cultivating strategic partnerships.

Most recently, Steve served as CTO of Agentis Software which developed advanced artificial intelligence-based process management systems. Before Agentis, Steve helped establish ClearNova as an early player in the Web 2.0 application development space which led to a successful acquisition by Infor. Steve was also Chief Technology Officer of SilverStream a publicly traded pioneer of Java Application Servers. Steve established SilverStream as a visionary in Web Services and SOA Business Processing resulting in a successful acquisition by Novell. Prior to SilverStream, Steve served in executive management positions for several start-up ventures & IT consultancies.

“Steve is a proven visionary who acts as a catalyst for innovation and the practical application of technology to real-world problems. His dedication to and knowledge of technology is unparalleled at the executive level,” said Jim Marshall, Spectrum K12 CEO. “Spectrum K12 is the market innovator in technology solutions in the area of special education and at-risk populations and Steve will focus his time on specific key strategic initiatives to enhance the company mission. We know that Steve’s expertise will enhance our breakthrough technology offerings that school districts find invaluable.”

Benfield said, "I am very pleased to join the Spectrum K12 team. Spectrum K12 has proven technology solutions that are providing critical functionality to K12 school districts. I’m excited about the possibilities for innovation and growth centered on applying technology and dynamic process automation to enable schools to more effectively manage the needs of special education and at-risk populations."

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.

ENCORE!® from Spectrum K12 School Solutions Earns Schools Interoperability Framework Certification

TOWSON, Md. – July 25, 2005 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions, the leading provider of comprehensive management solutions for special populations in K-12 education, today announced that ENCORE!® has achieved Schools Interoperability Framework (SIF) Certification for release 1.5r1 of the SIF specification, the most current standard against which products may be certified.

The SIF Certification program is a voluntary program of the Schools Interoperability Framework Association (SIFA). SIFA is a nonprofit organization that brings together software vendors, school districts, state departments of education and other organizations in the K-12 education market to develop protocol and data specifications that ensure disparate software applications can seamlessly share data. SIFA established the SIF Certification program to provide accessible third-party documentation of an application agent’s compliance with the standard.

To achieve SIF Certification, Spectrum K12 School Solutions completed a multi-step process that involved performing development and quality assurance testing; completing a conformance statement describing ENCORE! and the way in which it meets the conformance requirements; registering ENCORE! for certification; performing formal testing; and undergoing an audit by the Open Group, SIFA’s third-party certification authority.

“The ability to seamlessly exchange data among diverse applications is becoming more and more important to school districts as their use of technology grows. In our work with districts across the country, we have found that ENCORE!’s ability to seamlessly interface with their student information system was a key consideration in their selection of ENCORE!,” said Nathan Day, director of product management for Spectrum K12 School Solutions. “ENCORE!’s compliance with the SIF 1.5r1 standard provides districts with another option for eliminating redundant data entry and ensuring that their applications share critical student-related data in a timely and effective manner.”

According to Day, the use of an application such as ENCORE! that adheres to the SIF standard results in less up-front customization to achieve interoperability between multiple applications, as well as in improved data accuracy. “In short,” he said, “ENCORE! now provides school districts with one more way to reduce administrative burdens while improving access to student information. The result is more time to focus on students and learning.”

SIF Certification is valid for a period of 12 months.

About ENCORE!

Designed specifically for the K-12 education market, ENCORE! helps school districts increase the effectiveness of their programs for all special populations by automating time-consuming data collection and reporting processes, and reducing the paperwork burden. The comprehensive, Web-based software solution serves as a foundation for managing all phases of the individualized education plan (IEP) process for both general and special populations. As data is entered, compliance requirements are automatically verified, ensuring that paperwork is completed accurately and on time. As a result, educators can spend more time in the classroom, focusing on improving student learning and achievement.

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of comprehensive management solutions for special populations. Building upon its deep expertise in special education, 4GL helps school districts more effectively manage the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions, including special education, at-risk, Section 504 and Limited English Proficient (LEP) students.

4GL works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the immense burden of paperwork from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. Focused solely on K-12 education, 4GL’s proven, data-driven solutions help districts reduce paperwork, increase efficiency, improve staff morale and retention, increase revenue recovery, eliminate compliance issues, reduce unnecessary referrals to special education, and support successful achievement of individualized education plan (IEP) goals.

Founded in 1996, Spectrum K12 School Solutions is based in Towson, Md. For more information, visit http://www.4glschools.com or call 1-800-490-84GL (8445).

Education Industry Association, December 2006

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District Administration, June 2006

By Pamela Wheaton Shorr

Thirty years ago, Congress announced that more than half of American children with disabilities were not receiving appropriate educational services. Today, American schools have a world-class system for differentiating instruction for all students, regardless of cognitive, emotional or physical limitations. That’s quite an accomplishment, and something about which educators should be proud.

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Scholastic Administrator, January 2006

By Walter G. Amprey

In today’s economic climate, technology can be a tough sell. Educators tend to view tech expenditures as yet another operating expense that squeezes more money from strained budgets and heaps more work on already overworked staff. In the corporate world, on the other hand, technology is viewed as an investment that will pay for itself and possibly improve revenues by replacing inefficient systems and increasing productivity.

Click here to read more »

School Business Affairs, November 2005

This article originally appeared in the November 2005 School Business Affairs magazine and is reprinted with permission of the Association of School Business Officials International (http://www.asbointl.org). The text herein does not necessarily represent the views or policies of ASBO International, and use of this imprint does not imply any endorsement or recognition by ASBO International and its officers or affiliates.

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The Heller Reports, September 2005

DENVER (Sept. 13, 2005) - The Heller Reports, a QED company and leading provider of education market news and events, today announced the EdNET 2005 Industry Award recipients. The finalists and winners were honored for their positive work in education at a luncheon ceremony today during the 17th Annual EdNET Conference at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla in San Diego.

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AASA Journal of Scholarship and Practice, September 2005

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District Administration, June 2005

By Lisa Fratt

Quick--think special education. The typical district leader groans at high costs, paperwork and inefficiency. The assessment is frighteningly accurate, but a few districts are bucking the status quo by embracing technology.

Special education can eat districts alive, confirms Clark Easter, founder and chairman of 4GL School Solutions, Inc. It devours 20 percent to 25 percent of the average district’s budget with only 11 percent to 12 percent of students. Many special education teachers spend nearly half of the day buried under piles of paper. Inequitable resource allocation, staff burnout and turnover and near-zealous focus on compliance rather than instruction further complicate the scene.

Click here to read more »

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Names Carmi Paris Vice President of Corporate Development

TOWSON, MD– July 10, 2007 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. today announced that it has named Carmi Paris Vice President of Corporate Development. She brings to the company and its customers more than a decade of leadership in education technology. At Spectrum K12, Paris will expand collaborative partnerships and strategic alignments with corporations and other organizations committed to educational excellence for all students.

Paris began her career as a science teacher and high school track coach. With the advent of classroom technology, Paris pioneered curriculum development for at-risk youth, creating a web-based program called “I AM, WE ARE” (IAWA) that helped students develop goals and objectives to celebrate their ethnicity and cultural diversity. This drew Paris towards her current work in educational technology and in developing and educating the whole child, one who is engaged, healthy and academically challenged. Before joining Spectrum K12, Paris spent the past decade working with Riverdeep and then SchoolNet as national director of business development for both companies.

"Carmi brings a wealth of experience to her role with Spectrum K12,” said Jim Marshall, Spectrum K12 CEO. “Her proven ability to develop and manage partnerships will be an important part of Spectrum K12’s expansion into current and new markets. Her leadership ability and commitment to help narrow the achievement gaps for all students and enhance teaching proficiencies will impact our entire team and our valued customers.”

Paris said, “I am honored and pleased to join Spectrum K12’s outstanding team. Working to level the playing field for special populations—including special needs and at-risk students—has always been an area of education close to my heart. I have every confidence that, with the outstanding solution that Spectrum K12 offers, we will continue to lead the industry in helping school districts across America do an outstanding job managing the critical needs of these populations.”

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions

Spectrum K12 School Solutions Names Two Education Industry Leaders to its Team

TOWSON, MD– June 27, 2007 – Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. today announced that it has named Dr. Searetha Smith-Collins as vice president education strategist and Jodie Butler as vice president of government relations.

Smith-Collins is a lifelong educator and businesswoman. Before joining Spectrum K12, she was senior education consultant for Promethean, Inc. and president of SEA-S Consultants. For more than 37 years, she has worked in a variety of positions in education and leadership, from teacher to principal, from curriculum and reading specialist to curriculum executive director and as deputy/associate superintendent and chief academic officer in large urban and suburban school districts. She was also manager of strategic initiatives at Apple Computer, Inc., and executive vice president of Syfr Corporation.

Smith-Collins holds a doctorate degree in policy, governance, and administration and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Washington, Seattle, and a BE degree in English and education from Seattle University. She is an accomplished author, a sought-after education consultant and popular keynote speaker.

Butler’s experience includes leadership roles in state government, education, a computer technology company, nonprofit organizations, and statewide education associations. In the 1990s, Butler, a former teacher, served as the Iowa governor’s education policy director for five years, helping him initiate innovative technology programs for Iowa schools.

She also served as the governor’s representative at the National Education Summit during the creation of Achieve, a public-private organization aimed at improving the quality and rigor of public schools. Butler represented the National Governor’s Association on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) during its 2000 study and helped prepare recommendations authorized by the National Assessment Governing Board. Butler was also a manager of state-level initiatives and key accounts at Apple Computer and has managed her own consulting firm. She is a graduate of Wayne State College and holds a masters degree from the University of Iowa.

“Searetha and Jodie add considerable skills and experience to Spectrum K12’s established leadership in education and education technology,” said Jim Marshall, CEO. “Their backgrounds include a wide range of strengths in solving education problems on the local, regional and national levels. We’re very excited to welcome them aboard.”

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions