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AwardsInspiration® Software, Inc. has received numerous awards from teachers, education magazines and computer learning labs. We're proud of our accomplishments and for being recognized for the positive difference we have made in the lives of students, teachers and parents.
2010Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 Honored in 2010 "Creative Child Magazine" AwardsInspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 Honored in 2010 "Creative Child Magazine" AwardsVisual Learning Software Tools Selected by 100 Moms and Educators as Products That Nurture Children's Creativity PORTLAND, Ore. – Aug. 4, 2010 "Creativity is considered one of the core components of the 21st century skills that today’s students must develop to be successful in our connected, information-based, rapidly changing world," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Research supports that both technology and visual learning can help students build creativity and the strong critical-thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills needed for success in school and in life. This makes it particularly exciting to have our visual learning software tools, Inspiration and Kidspiration, honored by mothers and educators for helping kids think and learn creatively." Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, took top honors, winning the 2010 Media of the Year Award in the Kids Educational Interactive Software category. Kidspiration 3 supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. Kidspiration 3 has earned more than 20 awards from the education, technology and parenting communities since its debut in January 2008. Inspiration 9, the ultimate thinking and learning tool to create, communicate and achieve more, earned the 2010 Seal of Excellence Award in the Teens Educational Interactive Software category. For Inspiration 9, this honor from mothers and educators is one of 10 awards that it has received since its launch in January 2010. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills. Both visual learning software tools will be featured in "Creative Child Magazine's" holiday issue, distributed in Nov. 2010. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Noted Child Development Expert Names Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 as Best Children’s Vacation Products for Summer 2010 Noted Child Development Expert Names Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 as Best Children's Vacation Products for Summer 2010Dr. Toy Endorses Inspiration Software's Premier Visual Learning Tools to Keep Children Engaged and Learning While on Summer Vacation PORTLAND, Ore. – July 20, 2010 The award program was developed by Steveanne Auerbach, Ph.D., (a.k.a. Dr. Toy) to provide parents with a resource for choosing safe, affordable, educationally oriented and stimulating toys and play products for children to use during vacation time at home or on the road. Products named to the list are carefully chosen, using Dr. Toy’s extensive criteria developed over many years. They are evaluated for safety, age-appropriateness, design, durability, lasting play value, cultural and ethnic diversity, good transition from home to school, educational value, learning skills, creativity, improvement in the understanding of the community and the world, value for the price and, naturally, fun. "As a childhood specialist for 40 years, I have seen the continuous, essential need for more year-round resources to help consumers identify and choose the most appropriate products for all children," said Dr. Toy. "Inspiration and Kidspiration were selected for the 2010 Best Vacation Products because they will provide children with exciting new learning opportunities that will help them not only do better in school, but also give them more constructive activities while traveling or at vacation destinations." Inspiration 9 for children in grades 6-12, the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more, adds this prestigious endorsement to the expanding lists of awards from the education, technology and parenting communities that it has garnered since its launch in January 2010. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills. Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. Kidspiration 3 has earned more than 20 awards since its launch in January 2008. "We agree with Dr. Toy – learning for children doesn’t stop when school lets out for the summer. Learners of all ages can use Inspiration and Kidspiration to visually explore, express and write about their vacation experiences in a creative and engaging way," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Having our visual learning software named to the list of the Best Children’s Vacation Products offers parents the information that they need to pick learning tools for their children in the summer and year-round." About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 Honored With Prestigious Recognition From Consumer Parenting Organization Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 Honored With Prestigious Recognition From Consumer Parenting OrganizationInspiration Software’s Visual Learning Software Tools Win 2010 iParenting Excellent Products Awards PORTLAND, Ore. – June 8, 2010 “From the youngest age, learners can build the critical-thinking and communication skills necessary for 21st century success with our visual learning software tools, Inspiration and Kidspiration,” said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. “Recognition for our visual learning tools from parenting organizations, such as this honor from iParenting Media, is a testament to the fact that parents around the country understand how effective Inspiration and Kidspiration are at helping children develop strong thinking and learning skills.” Inspiration 9 is the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. This is the second honor from a parenting organization for Inspiration 9, the newest version of the company’s visual learning software for learners grade six to adult, which debuted less than six months ago. The visual learning software was also recently honored with the prestigious 2010 Software & Information Industry Association CODiE award. Inspiration 9 is designed to offer an essential framework for thinking – helping students use 21st century skills to achieve more in all subject areas. Learners use Inspiration to build graphic organizers, including concept maps, webs and idea maps; to visualize and develop ideas; understand and retain concepts; plan and organize work; and communicate and present knowledge. Research shows that visual learning is one of the best methods for teaching thinking skills. Visual learning techniques – graphical ways of working with ideas and presenting information – teach students to clarify their thinking and to process, organize and prioritize information. When students learn with Inspiration, they build strong critical-thinking, writing and organization skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding. Used by millions around the world, the software is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools. Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. Launched in January 2008, Kidspiration 3 now boasts more than 20 awards and accolades from top parenting, education and technology industry organizations. In reading and writing, Kidspiration builds children’s word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression using visual tools that combine pictures, text and spoken words. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration, children build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts. Using the software’s library of more than 3,000 symbols, children can create graphic organizers including webs, concept maps and Venn diagrams to express their ideas, explore ideas and relationships, and develop understanding. The symbol search capabilities allow them to find the right symbols to express their thoughts and ideas. Students can also use Symbol Maker to create their own symbols, or they can import their own images. For more information about Inspiration 9 or Kidspiration 3, go to http://www.inspiration.com. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.’s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge, and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company’s visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide. Inspiration Software's Family of Visual Learning Tools Takes Top Honors in 16th Annual Best Educational Software Awards Inspiration Software's Family of Visual Learning Tools Takes Top Honors in 16th Annual Best Educational Software AwardsInspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData Honored for Building Thinking Skills PORTLAND, Ore. – April 28, 2010 The BESSIE Awards target innovative and content-rich programs and Web sites that provide parents and teachers with technology to foster educational excellence. This is the second time in eight months that Inspiration Software’s family of visual learning software tools has earned honors from a ComputED Learning Center awards program. In September 2009, the company was a triple-crown winner in the center’s 14th Annual Education Software Review Awards (EDDIE Awards), earning honors for Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData. "When our family of educational software is honored with awards chosen by educators, such as the BESSIEs, it demonstrates that teachers recognize what the research supports: combining technology with visual learning instructional strategies creates powerful tools for helping students build 21st century thinking skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We are proud to add the 16th Annual BESSIE Awards to our list of honors for Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData." This is the second award for Inspiration since the January launch of the newest version of the best-selling visual learning software. With Inspiration 9, students in grades 6 through adult comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills. Inspiration was recognized in the "Thinking Skills" category for high school students. Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, adds to its growing list of honors and accolades with a BESSIE award in the "Thinking Skills" category for early elementary students. Kidspiration supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. This is the 19th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008. InspireData, the visual way to explore and understand data, won a BESSIE award in the "Data Exploration" category for upper elementary students. Students in grades 4 to 12 use InspireData to investigate, analyze, and represent data and information in dynamic graphs and charts. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration and Kidspiration Bring Home the Gold in the Mom's Choice Awards Inspiration and Kidspiration Bring Home the Gold in the Mom's Choice AwardsInspiration Software's Visual Learning Software Tools Named Among the Best in Family-Friendly Products, Services and Media PORTLAND, Ore. – March 16, 2010 "Visual learning helps students of all ages think critically and creatively, and ultimately build 21st century skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Top honors from the Mom’s Choice Awards for Inspiration and Kidspiration are a testament to the widespread recognition of the value of this important learning tool." Used by millions of students and teachers around the world, Inspiration, an MCA Gold recipient for grades 6-12, is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools. When students grade 6 to adult learn with Inspiration, they build strong critical-thinking, writing and organizational skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding. Inspiration 9 was launched in January 2010. With the ninth generation of its flagship software, Inspiration Software has taken the proven ways that visual learning builds critical-thinking skills and improves student achievement in new directions, making the world’s leading visual learning tool even more powerful. New capabilities in Inspiration 9 provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills. Now with the new Presentation Manager in Inspiration 9, students can create organized and compelling presentations to present and communicate their knowledge and work. In addition to Diagram and Outline view for taking notes, organizing information and structuring writing for planning papers and reports, Inspiration 9 features a new visual view, Map View. This allows students to create and think in mind maps, another proven visual learning methodology that promotes better understanding of relationships and connections among ideas and helps students retain information. Kidspiration 3 is an MCA Gold recipient for grades K-5. Kidspiration 3 is the visual way for young learners to explore and understand words, numbers and concepts. Kidspiration supports children as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. In reading and writing, Kidspiration builds children's word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression, using visual tools that combine pictures, text and spoken words. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration, children build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts. This year's MCA judges included Dr. Twila C. Liggett, 10-time Emmy-winner, professor and founder of PBS's "Reading Rainbow"; Julie Aigner-Clark, creator of Baby Einstein and The Safe Side Project; Jodee Blanco, "New York Times" bestselling author; Priscilla Dunstan, creator of the Dunstan Baby Language; Patricia Rossi, host of NBC's "Manners Minute"; Dr. Letitia S. Wright, host of the Wright Place TV Show; and Catherine Witcher, M.Ed., special-needs expert and founder of Precision Education, Inc. MCA judges are bound by a strict code of ethics that ensures expert and objective analysis free from any manufacturer association. The evaluation process uses a proprietary methodology in which entries are scored on a number of elements including production, quality, design, educational value, entertainment value, originality, appeal and cost.
About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software's Family of Visual Learning Software Tools Moves to the Finalist Round of the 2010 SIIA CODiE Awards Inspiration Software's Family of Visual Learning Software Tools Moves to the Finalist Round of the 2010 SIIA CODiE AwardsLeader in Visual Thinking and Learning One of Six Education Companies With Three or More Products Named as Finalists in Celebrated Award Program PORTLAND, Ore. – March 9, 2010 The company's flagship visual learning software, Inspiration®, is a finalist in the Best Instructional Solution in Other Curriculum Areas category. Kidspiration® earned finalist honors in the Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity category, and InspireData® was honored in the Best Social Studies Instructional Solution category. The three widely adopted visual learning software tools are among 88 products from 54 companies selected as finalists from more than 327 nominations submitted by 124 companies. Nominated products underwent an intensive review by subject matter experts, analysts, journalists and others with deep experience in the field. "As our family of visual learning software tools has grown, we have based developments on our ongoing conversations with the talented, creative teachers who use Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData to help their students think and learn," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is a great honor to have all three of our products recognized as finalists in the SIIA CODiE Awards in the same year for the first time." Inspiration is the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. When students grade six to adult learn with Inspiration, they build strong critical-thinking, writing and organizational skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding. Used by millions of students and teachers around the world, the software is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools. Inspiration is designed to offer one convenient place for students to successfully plan, research and complete projects in all subject areas. Learners use Inspiration to build graphic organizers, including concept maps, webs and idea maps; to plan and organize; research and evaluate; and comprehend and communicate. Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration is the visual way to explore and understand words, numbers and concepts. Kidspiration supports children as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. In reading and writing, Kidspiration builds children’s word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression using visual tools that combine pictures, text and spoken words. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration, children build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts. Students in grades 4-12 use InspireData, the visual way to explore and understand data, to build critical data analysis skills. Applying the proven strategies of visual learning to data literacy, InspireData helps students discover meaning as they collect and explore data in a dynamic inquiry process. In social studies, students use InspireData to understand patterns and relationships. Dynamic tables and graphs give students a visual way to analyze statistics, illustrate data sets and identify historical and economic trends. Students and teachers collect data using InspireData’s e-Survey tool, library and Internet research, or one of the ready-to-use InspireData social studies databases. Students explore the best ways to represent and analyze their data by experimenting with multiple plot types such as Venn diagrams, and bar, stack, axis and pie charts. Students strengthen research skills by recording their observations and analyses using the Notes area and Slide Show tool. "This is the 25th year we have recognized excellence through the CODiE Awards program," noted Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "The competition is always tough, and in this economic climate, companies are doing even more to innovate. Excellence within the education technology industry shines through in the products selected as finalists, and we are very excited to see how the voting goes this year." The products that qualified will now be reviewed by members of SIIA, who will vote on winners for all 24 categories. The winners will be announced at a special CODiE Awards Dinner on May 24th, which will be held in conjunction with the 2010 Ed Tech Industry Summit.
About SIIA
About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software's Premier Visual Learning Tools Earn "Best Products 2010" Honors From iParenting Media Awards Inspiration Software's Premier Visual Learning Tools Earn "Best Products 2010" Honors From iParenting Media AwardsInspiration and Kidspiration Kick Off New Year With Endorsement From Top Online Parenting Community PORTLAND, Ore. – Jan 27, 2010 Inspiration® Software's premier visual learning tools have kicked off the new year with 2010 Best Products Honors from iParenting Media. Inspiration® and Kidspiration® were selected for the recognition from hundreds of products that were submitted for judging in 17 categories. All products submitted for the iParenting Media Awards Best Products of 2010 underwent a thorough evaluation process by a variety of individuals, including experts and families. This recognition marks both visual learning software tools’ third honor from the parenting community in the last two months. “Having Inspiration and Kidspiration earn recognition as two of the best products of 2010 from iParenting Media is a great way to start the new year,” said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. “It is particularly exciting to know that the parenting community understands the important role that visual learning plays in helping students build thinking and learning skills.” For Inspiration, being named among the Best Products of 2010 by iParenting Media falls closely on the heels of the early January launch of the next generation of the bestselling visual learning software. With Inspiration 9, students will comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills. The iParenting Media Award Best Products of 2010 is the 19th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008. Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. About iParenting Medi iParenting.com, an online community for parents and parents-to-be, is part of Disney Online’s network of family-focused Web sites including Disney Family.com, FamilyFun.com and Wondertime.com. Founded in 1996, the company has grown from a single pregnancy site, www.PregancyToday.com, to an award-winning network of more than 40 sites, in English and Spanish. The iParenting sites address a range of parenting issues from preconception through raising teenagers and beyond. iParenting Media’s Editor-in-Chief Elisa Ast All, MSJ, writes a monthly newspaper column and co-hosts a Chicago-based radio show, Points on Parenting. iParenting Media produces the highly respected iParenting Media Awards program, an ISO9001:2000 certified product review and awards program. Consumers can learn more about products winning iParenting Media Awards, and where to purchase the products via a retailer network online directory, by visiting http://www.iParentingMediaAwards.com/consumer. About Inspiration Software, Inc. 2009Kidspiration Honored as Outstanding Products of 2009 by iParenting Media AwardsTwo Top Parent Information Sites Recommend Visual Learning Tools From Inspiration Software as Best Software Products for Children PORTLAND, Ore. – Dec. 9, 2009 Inspiration® and Kidspiration® are wrapping up 2009 with their second set of honors from a national parent information Web site, as they have now been named to the iParenting Media Awards’ list of Outstanding Products of 2009. The visual learning tools from Inspiration Software, Inc., the leader in visual thinking and learning, were also recently awarded The National Parenting Center's 2010 Seal of Approval, adding to both products' long list of accolades from the education, technology and parenting communities. Inspiration and Kidspiration were selected for the recognition from iParenting Media from hundreds of products that were submitted for judging in 17 categories. All products submitted for the iParenting Media Awards Outstanding Products of 2009 underwent a thorough evaluation process by a variety of individuals, including experts and families. "The second recognition in as many weeks for Inspiration and Kidspiration from the parenting community supports our belief that students can use visual learning to build critical thinking skills both at school and at home," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is exciting to see our software listed among the high-quality products for children that the iParenting judges recognized as the best of 2009." Inspiration is the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn. Inspiration provides powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension and writing, and learners in grade 6 to adult rely on Inspiration to plan, research and complete projects successfully. Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. The iParenting Media Award Outstanding Products of 2009 is the 18th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008. About iParenting Media iParenting.com, an online community for parents and parents-to-be, is part of Disney Online's network of family-focused Web sites including Disney Family.com, FamilyFun.com and Wondertime.com. Founded in 1996, the company has grown from a single pregnancy site, www.PregancyToday.com, to an award-winning network of more than 40 sites, in English and Spanish. The iParenting sites address a range of parenting issues from preconception through raising teenagers and beyond. iParenting Media's Editor-in-Chief Elisa Ast All, MSJ, writes a monthly newspaper column and co-hosts a Chicago-based radio show, Points on Parenting. iParenting Media produces the highly respected iParenting Media Awards program, an ISO9001:2000 certified product review and awards program. Consumers can learn more about products winning iParenting Media Awards, and where to purchase the products via a retailer network online directory, by visiting http://www.iParentingMediaAwards.com/consumer. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide. Inspiration and Kidspiration Earn The National Parenting Center's 2010 Seal of Approval Inspiration and Kidspiration Earn The National Parenting Center's 2010 Seal of ApprovalVisual Learning Software Tools Praised for Encouraging Creative Thinking, Also Named to Holiday 2009 Seal of Approval Report PORTLAND, Ore. – Dec. 2, 2009 The National Parenting Center (TNPC), one of the country's top evaluators of quality products for children, has given its stamp of approval to Kidspiration® and Inspiration® from Inspiration Software, Inc., the leader in visual thinking and learning. Both visual learning software tools have earned the group's 2010 Seal of Approval and were named to its Holiday 2009 Seal of Approval Report. More than 1 million parents will visit the TNPC Web site between now and the holidays to read product reviews as they prepare their shopping lists. TNPC reviewers had high praise for Inspiration, the essential tool to visualize, think organize and learn: "The learning and thinking software that broke the mold and continues to lead the way when it comes to innovative visual realization on the computer continues to impress testers year after year. Whether they are building graphic organizers like concept maps, mind maps, idea maps, diagrams and expansive webs, the process is remarkable in just how effective it is at both freeing and uncluttering the mind to either accomplish a task or unearth new ideas. This software is a gift that you give to your child. Then you step back and watch as they discover just what they can do." The reviewers were equally effusive in their evaluation of Kidspiration, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5: "Like its older brother, the multiple Seal award-winning Inspiration, Kidspiration develops thinking, literacy and numeracy skills for elementary aged children. Back again in the Seal winners circle with a new version, Kidspiration again builds on its core strengths, enhancing word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression. New skills like reasoning and problem-solving are great additions. Whether you are a home schooler or just want to give your children a different kind of software program that hands them a unique set of tools to clarify their thoughts and organize information, Kidspiration does it and does it like nothing else we have seen. Users found that their kids were able to free their minds and think more creatively with this tool at their fingertips." This is the 17th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008. "The endorsement of The National Parenting Center means a great deal to us at Inspiration Software because we value both the power of our products for learning at home, as well as the important voice that parents have in the decisions that schools make when choosing learning tools," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder. "As parents shop for gifts this holiday season, I hope they will consider the ways that our visual learning software can help learners of all ages think critically and creatively, and look forward to the countless hours of learning and fun that they will have with Inspiration and Kidspiration." About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration Named to "Dr. Toy's" Lists of Top Children's Products for 2009 Kidspiration Named to "Dr. Toy's" Lists of Top Children's Products for 2009Visual Learning Software for Young Learners Expands List of Accolades With Honors From Toy Industry Expert PORTLAND, Ore. – Oct. 15, 2009 Dr. Toy's seal of approval for children's products, now in its 19th year, is the only program of its kind offered free to consumers. It is produced by experienced toy industry professional Dr. Toy, a child development specialist who focuses on unique, high-quality, active, creative and educational products. In cooperation with The Institute for Childhood Resources, established in 1975, Dr. Toy provides parents and professionals with timely information on the best toys, products, books, games, DVDs and more. Many parents, teachers and toy buyers use Dr. Toy's guidance in making selections. "We evaluate children's products based on a complicated set of objective and subjective criteria, asking, 'Is the product a good value for the price?' and 'Is it appropriate for children?' and, of course, 'Is it fun?'" said Dr. Auerbach. "The answer was 'yes' to those questions for Kidspiration 3. Inspiration Software joins other winning companies with products on the top 2009 lists that are developing cutting-edge products that provide children with the most innovative, developmentally appropriate experiences." Kidspiration supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. In reading and writing, Kidspiration supports students as they think creatively and organize ideas to write, comprehend and communicate successfully. With the new visual math tools in Kidspiration 3, students build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts. Across the curriculum, they express and communicate their thinking with pictures, words and numbers. "At Inspiration Software, we have always believed that learning should be fun and so it is great to see Kidspiration 3 on Dr. Toy’s list of smart technology toys as well as the top children's products of the year,” said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We know that parents around the country turn to Dr. Toy for her expertise and are proud to have our visual learning software included on her lists of top products." A 30-day free trial of Kidspiration 3 can be downloaded at www.inspiration.com/freetrial. For more information, call 800-877-4292 or visit http://www.inspiration.com/order to find a local education dealer. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software Sweeps 14th Annual Educational Software Review Awards
Inspiration Software Sweeps 14th Annual Educational Software Review AwardsInspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData Honored by ComputED Learning Center PORTLAND, Ore. – Sept. 18, 2009 The EDDIE Awards target innovative and content-rich programs and Web sites that augment the classroom curriculum and improve teacher productivity, providing parents and teachers with the technology to foster educational excellence. Selection criteria include academic content, potential for broad classroom use, technical merit, subject approach and management system. Winners are selected from titles submitted by publishers from around the world. "It is always exciting when educators recognize our visual learning software tools with awards," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "However, it is particularly gratifying to see all three products – Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData – recognized by this group of leaders in education technology." Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, was honored in the "Thinking Skills" category for early elementary students. Kidspiration supports students as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. This is the 14th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008. Inspiration, the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn, was recognized in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary students. Learners grade 6 to adult rely on Inspiration to plan, research and complete projects successfully. InspireData, the visual way to explore and understand data, won an EDDIE award in the "Data Exploration" category for upper elementary students. Students grades 4 to 12 use InspireData to investigate, analyze and represent data and information in dynamic graphs and charts. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software Takes Top Honors in 15th Annual Best Educational Software Awards Kidspiration 3 and InspireData Recognized for Innovation, Educational Excellence
Kidspiration wins prestigious Codie Award Kidspiration 3 Wins 2009 Software & Information Industry CODiE Award
Prestigious Software Industry Award Marks 13th Honor for Inspiration Software’s Visual Learning Tool for Young Learners PORTLAND, Ore. – May 11, 2009 – Kidspiration 3 has added the prestigious Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) CODiE Award to its growing list of honors and accolades. The visual learning software for grades K-5 is the winner of the award for Best Instructional Solution in Other Curriculum Areas in the 2009 program honoring outstanding achievement and vision in the software, digital information and education technology industries. This year’s CODiE Awards winners were selected from more than 850 nominations submitted by 600 companies. A panel of expert judges narrowed the field to 345 finalists from which the 2009 CODiE winners were chosen. “Kidspiration 3 truly represents more than two decades of experience working with educators to develop visual learning tools that students use to develop critical thinking skills,” said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. “We are proud to have our visual learning software for young learners honored for innovation by the technology industry, and we are even prouder of the creative ways that teachers are using it with their students every day in classrooms around the world.” In reading and writing, Kidspiration supports students as they think creatively and organize ideas to write, comprehend and communicate successfully. With the new visual math tools in Kidspiration 3, students build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts. Across the curriculum, they express and communicate their thinking with pictures, words and numbers. A free 30-day free trial of Kidspiration 3 can be downloaded at www.inspiration.com/freetrial. For more information, call 800-877-4292 or visit www.inspiration.com/order to find a local education dealer. About SIIA About Inspiration Software, Inc. For more information, press only: ©2009 Inspiration Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Inspiration Software®, Kidspiration®, InspireData® and Inspiration® are registered trademarks of Inspiration Software, Inc. All other brands are the property of their respective owners. ### Kidspiration 3 Named Best Product of 2009 by iParenting Media Awards List of Honors for Visual Learning Software for Young Learners Continues to Grow 2008Kidspiration 3 “Wows” Judges in 13th Annual Education Software Review AwardsVisual Learning Software for Young Learners Named Favorite of Teachers, Parents by Top National Award Programs PORTLAND, Ore. – Oct. 8, 2008 Judges for the 2008 EDDIE awards said they “quickly and unanimously” named Kidspiration for the honor and that they were “once again wowed” by the visual learning software. With tools for building reading and writing skills as well as a conceptual understanding of math, the judges recommended both the software and its new series of lesson plan books so that teachers can “make the most of this powerful learning tool.” Kidspiration 3 also recently earned the 2008 Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award from the Parents’ Choice Foundation, the nation’s oldest nonprofit guide to quality children’s media and toys. Plus, the 2008 iParenting Media Award honored Kidspiration 3 as one of the top software products of the year. Products are selected by this highly-respected awards program based on their fun value, quality, ease of use, play duration, educational nature and uniqueness, among other criteria. “Elementary teachers around the country are telling us that our newest version of Kidspiraiton gives them a complete tool for helping students build thinking skills across the curriculum, “said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. “It is exciting to have Kidspiration 3 honored by these top education and parenting award programs.” In fact, since its launch earlier this year, Kidspiration 3 has garnered numerous awards. Just weeks after its debut, it received an Editor's Choice Award from “Children’s Technology Review” followed by a 2008 Best Educational Software Award (BESSIE) from the ComputED Learning Center in the Thinking Skills category for Upper Elementary. Kidspiration 3 supports students in kindergarten through fifth grade as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. In reading and writing, students use Kidspiration to think creatively and organize ideas to write, comprehend and communicate successfully. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration 3, students build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts. Across the curriculum, they express and communicate their thinking with pictures, words and numbers. Elementary teachers can quickly and easily use Kidspiration to help students build thinking skills with a series of lesson plan books from Inspiration Software. Written by educators, “Kidspiration® in the Classroom: Writing Essentials,” “Kidspiration in the Classroom: Math Made Visual” and “Kidspiration in the Classroom: Reading Essentials,” provide practical ideas, creative lesson plans and easy-to-follow directions that encourage student learning and thinking. Sample pages from the books can be downloaded at http://www.inspiration.com/Resources/Kidspiration. Kidspiration® 3 wins iParenting 2008 Outstanding Product Award PORTLAND, OR — July 30, 2008 iParenting Media's Award Program honors the best products in the children's media and juvenile products industries. Kidspiration was recognized in the Software category. For more information about the iParenting Media Awards and to view the complete list of award winners, visit: http://www.iparentingmediaawards.com. About Inspiration Software Inspiration Software's visual learning tools win 2008 BESSIE awards PORTLAND, OR — April 25, 2008 Kidspiration 3, the visual way to strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum, for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary. This is the seventh year that Kidspiration has received this honor. InspireData® was also a winner for the second year in a row, for best Multi-level "Research Tool." For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® 3 receives Editor’s Choice Award PORTLAND, OR—March 19, 2008 Children's Technology Review (CTR) is an independent survey, published monthly, of commercial interactive media products designed for children, aged birth- to 15-years. These are the products that children use for both fun and learning, either at home and/or at school. They include software, video games, interactive toys, web sites that a child might visit, and so on. For more information about Children's Technology Review, visit www.childrenssoftware.com. About Inspiration Software, Inc. 2006Inspiration Software® Wins Three 2006 EDDIE AwardsPORTLAND, OR — August 11, 2006 Inspiration 8, the latest version of the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the EDDIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Kidspiration 2.1, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary. This is the 11th consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the sixth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS was also an EDDIE winner for a second time, this year in the PDA "Thinking Skills" category. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the EDDIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/. About Inspiration Software Inspiration Software® Wins Three 2006 EDDIE Awards PORTLAND, OR — August 11, 2006 Inspiration 8, the latest version of the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the EDDIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Kidspiration 2.1, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary. This is the 11th consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the sixth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS was also an EDDIE winner for a second time, this year in the PDA "Thinking Skills" category. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the EDDIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/. About Inspiration Software 2005Inspiration Software Wins Two 2005 Codie Awards from the Software & Information Industry Association Both Inspiration and Kidspiration Recognized as Top Educational Software PORTLAND, OR — May 31, 2005 This year over 800 companies submitted more than 1,000 nominations — a record breaker for the Codie Awards, now in its 20th year. First round judging was completed by a broad panel of representatives from the industry trade press, mainstream technology writers and industry experts and analysts. Second round judging was based on votes from SIIA members. Member companies are allotted one vote per company in each Codie Award category. "SIIA congratulates Inspiration Software, Inc. on its two 2005 Codie Awards wins in education technology categories," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. As the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, Inspiration 7.5 provides powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension and writing in all curriculum areas for students from grade 6 to adult. Kidspiration 2 offers students in grades K-5 the ability to build early literacy skills and understand new concepts by using graphic organizers to combine pictures, text and spoken words. "At Inspiration Software, our commitment is to develop visual learning software tools that help students achieve at the highest levels," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is wonderful to have the latest updates to our premier products, Inspiration and Kidspiration, once again honored by the software industry." About Inspiration Software, Inc. About the Software & Information Industry Association Inspiration Software Honored With Two 2006 Codie Awards From the Software & Information Industry Association Visual Learning Software Tools Take Top Honors in Educational Software Categories PORTLAND, OR — May 23, 2006 "This 21st Annual Codie Awards continues our tradition of celebrating the best products in the software and information industry," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "Being a winner among so many fine nominees is a solid achievement. I congratulate all of the companies." This year's winners were chosen from more than 1,026 nominations — the most in the history of the Codies — for the excellence of their products, services, corporate leadership and philanthropy. "Our company's talented team is dedicated to developing the highest quality products that allow students to use visual learning to build thinking skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We are thrilled to have the software industry recognize the results of that commitment." Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning. Kidspiration 2.1, the newest update, includes enhanced compatibility with whiteboards and syncing with Inspiration for Palm OS, encouraging collaborative learning activities in small groups or as a whole class. Launched last June, Inspiration for Pocket PC combines the power of visual learning with the ease of handhelds and includes many of the popular capabilities of the company's flagship visual learning software, Inspiration. About Inspiration Software, Inc. About the Software & Information Industry Association Inspiration Software’s Visual Learning Tools Win 2006 BESSIE Awards PORTLAND, OR — March 24, 2006 Inspiration 7.6, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Kidspiration 2.1, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary. This is the ninth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the sixth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS was also a winner for the second year in a row, in the PDA category. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/. About Inspiration Software Inspiration Software’s Visual Learning Tools Win 2006 BESSIE Awards PORTLAND, OR — March 24, 2006 Inspiration 7.6, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Kidspiration 2.1, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary. This is the ninth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the sixth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS was also a winner for the second year in a row, in the PDA category. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/. About Inspiration Software Inspiration® 7.6 and Kidspiration® 2.1 Win 2006 Teachers’ Choice Awards for the Family PORTLAND, OR — Dec. 2, 2005 Learning Magazine introduced the first Teachers' Choice Awards program in 1994. In 2004, it launched the Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family in order to meet the needs of companies whose educational products work in the home. Teachers from across the United States judged the entries and evaluated how effectively the products could be incorporated into the home environment. Each product was evaluated on educational value, originality and creativity, ease of use, safety and durability, and high-interest level and motivation for children. Inspiration is the premier tool to help students grade 6 to adult develop ideas and organize thinking. Powered by the proven techniques of visual learning, Inspiration taps into students' creativity and learning strengths. Students develop essential learning strategies as they create graphic organizers to visually represent concepts and relationships. Inspiration's integrated diagramming and outlining environments work together to help students comprehend concepts and information. The results are clearer thinking, more creative projects, better organized writing and improved performance across all curriculum areas. Inspiration 7.6, released in January 2005, offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs, and Palm Powered™ handhelds. Kidspiration is the visual way to think, write and comprehend. Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning, improving achievement and standards-based skills across the curriculum. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Younger learners develop early literacy skills, and more advanced students improve comprehension skills and organize their ideas for writing. Kidspiration 2.1, released in January 2005, offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs, and Palm Powered™ handhelds. About Inspiration Software Inspiration® 7.6 and Kidspiration® 2.1 Win 2006 Teachers’ Choice Awards for the Family PORTLAND, OR — Dec. 2, 2005 Learning Magazine introduced the first Teachers' Choice Awards program in 1994. In 2004, it launched the Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family in order to meet the needs of companies whose educational products work in the home. Teachers from across the United States judged the entries and evaluated how effectively the products could be incorporated into the home environment. Each product was evaluated on educational value, originality and creativity, ease of use, safety and durability, and high-interest level and motivation for children. Inspiration is the premier tool to help students grade 6 to adult develop ideas and organize thinking. Powered by the proven techniques of visual learning, Inspiration taps into students' creativity and learning strengths. Students develop essential learning strategies as they create graphic organizers to visually represent concepts and relationships. Inspiration's integrated diagramming and outlining environments work together to help students comprehend concepts and information. The results are clearer thinking, more creative projects, better organized writing and improved performance across all curriculum areas. Inspiration 7.6, released in January 2005, offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs, and Palm Powered™ handhelds. Kidspiration is the visual way to think, write and comprehend. Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning, improving achievement and standards-based skills across the curriculum. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Younger learners develop early literacy skills, and more advanced students improve comprehension skills and organize their ideas for writing. Kidspiration 2.1, released in January 2005, offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs, and Palm Powered™ handhelds. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® 2 Wins 2005 Teachers’ Choice Award PORTLAND, OR — Oct. 18, 2004 Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Kidspiration 2, the visual way to think, write and comprehend, offers more ways to help students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. About Inspiration Software Inspiration Software®’s Kidspiration® 2.1 receives 2 awards for Best Children’s Products of 2005 from Dr. Toy PORTLAND, OR – August 24, 2005 The January 2005 update offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs and Palm Powered™ handhelds. Winners of Dr. Toy's awards programs are selected in cooperation with the Institute for Childhood Resources. Established in 1975, the company provides parents and professionals with the latest information on toys, software, games, tapes and other children's products. Dr. Toy's review of Kidspiration 2.1 can be found online in Dr. Toy's Guide at www.drtoy.com. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration® 2.1 and Inspiration® 7.6 Win EDDIE Awards PORTLAND, OR—August 12, 2005 The tenth annual EDDIE Awards are presented by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource. The awards recognize innovative and content-rich programs that provide teachers and parents with technology tools to help students achieve academic excellence. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com. Released in January 2005, the updated versions Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 offer enhanced compatibility with emerging classroom technologies, such as interactive whiteboards and Tablet PCs. About Inspiration Software Inspiration Software’s Visual Learning Tools Earn 2005 Seal of Approval from The National Parenting Center PORTLAND, OR—August 8, 2005 This marks the 4th version of Inspiration, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, to receive the Seal of Approval. Kidspiration, the visual way to think, write and comprehend, has received the Seal of Approval on two prior occasions. Released in January 2005, updated versions Inspiration 7.6 and Kidspiration 2.1 offer enhanced compatibility with emerging classroom technologies, such as interactive whiteboards and Tablet PCs. This is the first Seal of Approval for Inspiration Software's new handheld offerings, Inspiration for Palm OS, released in May 2004, and Inspiration for Pocket PC, released in June 2005. Inspiration for handhelds combines the learning benefits of Inspiration with the natural ease of handhelds, offering students and educators a familiar tool for gathering information and developing ideas. Testing for The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval is a multi-step process conducted over an eight-week period. Staffed by volunteers, the testing facility of The National Parenting Center gives parents, children and educators the opportunity to examine a variety of submitted products. The testers are encouraged to play with, build, read about and judge by the reactions of the children, each product's quality. For more information about The National Parent Center Seal of Approval, visit http://www.tnpc.com. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration Wins Two Association of Educational Publishers 2005 Distinguished Achievement Awards Visual Learning Software Recognized as Most Innovative and Best Reading Software for Elementary Students PORTLAND, OR — June 15, 2005 Launched in 2001, Kidspiration today is used by more than three million elementary students worldwide to express themselves visually and recognize the connections between words and meanings. Inspiration®, Kidspiration's companion product for grade six through adult, received an AEP Distinguished Achievement Award in 2003. "We are proud of the innovative ways elementary teachers are using Kidspiration to help students build early literacy skills and understand new concepts," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "As a company, we are devoted to developing products for students and teachers, so it is particularly exciting when our products are recognized by leaders in the education publishing industry." For 37 years, the Distinguished Achievement Awards have honored the diversity and quality of supplemental publishing products made for the home and school. In 2004, the categories were expanded to reflect the growth of electronic publishing and the expanding educational publishing industry. All products submitted undergo a rigorous two-tier judging process by individuals who are experts in their respective areas. Products selected by the initial screening judges go to final judging, where a certification panel of judges review and certify all winners and finalists. About Inspiration Software, Inc. About the Association of Educational Publishers Inspiration Software Honored With Two 2006 Codie Awards From the Software & Information Industry Association Visual Learning Software Tools Take Top Honors in Educational Software Categories PORTLAND, OR — May 23, 2006 "This 21st Annual Codie Awards continues our tradition of celebrating the best products in the software and information industry," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "Being a winner among so many fine nominees is a solid achievement. I congratulate all of the companies." This year's winners were chosen from more than 1,026 nominations — the most in the history of the Codies — for the excellence of their products, services, corporate leadership and philanthropy. "Our company's talented team is dedicated to developing the highest quality products that allow students to use visual learning to build thinking skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We are thrilled to have the software industry recognize the results of that commitment." Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning. Kidspiration 2.1, the newest update, includes enhanced compatibility with whiteboards and syncing with Inspiration for Palm OS, encouraging collaborative learning activities in small groups or as a whole class. Launched last June, Inspiration for Pocket PC combines the power of visual learning with the ease of handhelds and includes many of the popular capabilities of the company's flagship visual learning software, Inspiration. About Inspiration Software, Inc. About the Software & Information Industry Association Inspiration Software®, Inc. receives 2005 Dr. Toy’s Best Children’s Vacation Product award for Kidspiration® 2.1 PORTLAND, OR – May 20, 2005 The January 2005 update offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs and Palm Powered® handhelds. Dr. Toy's Best Children's Vacation Products are selected in cooperation with the Institute for Childhood Resources. Established in 1975, the company provides parents and professionals with the latest information on toys, software, games, tapes and other children's products. Dr. Toy's review of Kidspiration 2.1 can be found online in Dr. Toy's Guide at www.drtoy.com. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 Win 2005 iParenting Media Awards PORTLAND, OR — May 4, 2005 iParenting Media produces parenting information for magazines, newspaper, radio and Internet. For the awards program, products are judged by three outside reviewers: a licensed childcare facility/school, a product expert and a family. For more information about the iParenting Media Awards and to view the complete list of award winners, visit: http://www.iparentingmediaawards.com/. Released in January 2005, Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 extend proven visual learning benefits with new updates to support emerging classroom technologies, including compatibility with Promethean ACTIV board and SMART Board™ interactive whiteboards, Palm-Powered™ handhelds, Tablet PCs and Wacom® Tablets. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration 2 Selected for 2005 Media & Methods Award Portfolio PORTLAND, OR — April 25, 2005 Media & Methods magazine has been in circulation for 40 years. The editorial focuses on practical ways technology can be used for teaching and learning in K-12 classrooms and labs. For the 2005 Awards Portfolio, educator judges across the country made product selections based on a set of objective criteria, including interest level, clarity of educational objectives, user-friendliness, and overall strengths and weaknesses. Winners will be acknowledged in the May/June 2005 issue of Media & Methods magazine and on the website at www.media-methods.com. Originally released in 2001, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Kidspiration 2 offers more ways to help students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® 2.1 and Inspiration® 7.6 win All Star Software awards PORTLAND, OR—April 14, 2005 Children's Technology Review awarded both Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 with 4.9 out of 5 stars. Children's Technology Review (CTR) is a survey of interactive media products. The editors attempt to help parents, children's librarians and teachers leverage the power of technology to support the development of children ages birth to 16, by describing the products that are available from an educational perspective. For more information about Children's Technology Review, visit www.childrenssoftware.com. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software's Visual Learning Tools Win 2005 BESSIE Awards PORTLAND, OR — March 22, 2005 Inspiration 7.5, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the "Thinking Skills" category for Middle School. Kidspiration 2, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary. This is the eighth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the fifth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS, a newcomer to the BESSIES this year, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills, Palm OS" category for High School. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/. About Inspiration Software 2004Kidspiration® 2 Wins 2005 Teachers’ Choice Award for the FamilyPORTLAND, OR — Nov. 15, 2004 The 2nd annual Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family are presented by Learning Magazine, and the complete list of award recipients will be published in the April 2005 issue. Learning Magazine introduced the first Teachers' Choice Awards program in 1994. In 2004, it launched the Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family in order to meet the needs of companies whose educational products work in the home. Teachers from across the United States judged the entries and evaluated how effectively the products could be incorporated into the home environment. Each product was evaluated on educational value, originality and creativity, ease of use, safety and durability, and high-interest level and motivation for children. Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration® provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Kidspiration 2, the visual way to think, write and comprehend, offers more ways to help students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® 2 and Inspiration® for Palm OS Receive Parents’ Choice Awards Both products selected for Silver Honors in 2004 PORTLAND, OR —Sept. 8, 2004 Established in 1978, the Parents' Choice Foundation is the nation's oldest not-for-profit evaluator of children's books, videos, toys, audios, computer software, television, and magazines. The Foundation's mission is to provide parents with information to participate wisely in their children's learning. The Awards Program identifies the best products for children of different ages, backgrounds, skills and interests, honoring those that meet and exceed standards set by educators, scientists, performing artists, librarians, parents, and kids themselves. Judges in all product categories use General Criteria including excellent production values, universal human values, appeal to children and age appropriateness when making their decisions. The Parents' Choice Awards committees look for products that entertain and teach with flair, stimulate imagination and inspire creativity. Originally released in 2001, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Kidspiration 2 offers more ways to help students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. Inspiration for Palm OS gives students and educators more access to the premier visual learning tool that helps them achieve clearer thinking, better writing and improved performance across the curriculum. With Inspiration for Palm OS, it's easy to capture ideas and show relationships by sketching symbols and arranging thoughts directly on screen with a stylus. The integrated outline view allows students to create a solid foundation for their writing. To complete a project, students can transfer to a handheld word processor, sync their handheld device to a desktop computer or beam to a printer. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® 2 wins EDDIE for best Upper Elementary Thinking Skills software PORTLAND, OR—July 28, 2004 The ninth annual EDDIE Awards are presented by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource. The awards recognize innovative and content-rich programs that provide teachers and parents with technology tools to help students achieve academic excellence. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com. Kidspiration 2, released in January 2004, provides more visual ways to help K-5 students build emerging literacy skills. Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used by students grade 6 to adult to develop ideas and organize thinking. Created for grade 4 to adult, Inspiration for Palm OS provides handheld power to develop ideas and organize thinking. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® 2 named to Dr. Toy’s Best Children’s Vacation Products list PORTLAND, OR – May 19, 2004 The visual way to think, write and comprehend, Kidspiration 2 helps students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. Dr. Toy's Best Children's Vacation Products are selected in cooperation with the Institute for Childhood Resources. Established in 1975, the company provides parents and professionals with the latest information on toys, software, games, tapes and other children's products. Dr. Toy's review of Kidspiration 2 can be found online in Dr. Toy's Guide at www.drtoy.com. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® wins iParenting Media Award PORTLAND, OR—May 4, 2004 iParenting Media produces parenting information for magazines, newspaper, radio and Internet. The awards program honors the best products in the children's media and juvenile product marketplace. Products are judged by three outside reviewers: a licensed childcare facility/school, a product expert and a parent. For more information about the iParenting Media Awards, visit: http://www.iparentingmediaawards.com/ Kidspiration 2, the visual way to think, write and comprehend, offers more ways to help students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration® 2 earns Seal of Approval from The National Parenting Center PORTLAND, OR—April 29, 2004 Kidspiration 2 was one of only four computer software products to earn the Seal of Approval during the spring 2004 testing period. Reviewers said of the visual learning software, "For several years now Kidspiration has given children a tool to create visual links to concepts as diverse as science projects and family relationships. It's much more than an organizational tool, although that's the way our testers described it. No matter the term, you will become a believer once you see the impact it has on your child and the way they process information both for school and for fun." This marks the second version of Kidspiration to receive a Seal of Approval from The National Parenting Center. Kidspiration 2, the visual way to think, write and comprehend, offers more ways to help students improve standards-based skills with new capabilities, such as the Symbol Maker drawing tool, expanded SuperGrouper® options and paired pictures and words in Writing View. Testing for The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval is a multi-step process conducted over an eight-week period. Staffed by volunteers, the testing facility of The National Parenting Center gives parents, children and educators the opportunity to examine a variety of submitted products. The testers are encouraged to play with, build, read about and judge by the reactions of the children, each product's quality. For more information about The National Parent Center Seal of Approval, visit http://www.tnpc.com. About Inspiration Software Kidspiration® Wins 2004 BESSIE Award PORTLAND, OR — March 15, 2004 Inspiration 7.5, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the "Thinking Skills" category for High School. Kidspiration, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary. This is the seventh consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the fourth year for Kidspiration. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/ About Inspiration Software, Inc. 2003Kidspiration® receives Best Elementary Education Instructional SolutionBoth Inspiration® 7 and Kidspiration® Recognized by Technology Industry as Among Education Market's Finest Products PORTLAND, OR — May 13, 2003 "It is exciting to have both of our visual learning software products recognized by our peers in the software technology industry," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Our two 2003 Codie Awards are a tribute to Inspiration Software's entire team of employees who are dedicated to developing the highest quality learning tools to support improved achievement in our schools." Inspiration Software joined 39 other technology industry leaders in receiving a 2003 Codie Award. For 18 years, these awards have showcased the software and digital content industry's finest products and services and honored excellence for corporate achievement and philanthropic efforts. SIIA President Ken Wasch said, "SIIA congratulates Inspiration Software on its wins in two 2003 Codie Awards education categories with first-rate competition. These awards recognize the strength of Inspiration Software’s products in the education market." About Inspiration Software, Inc. About the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) Both Inspiration® 7 and Kidspiration® Recognized by Technology Industry as Among Education Market's Finest Products PORTLAND, OR — March 25, 2003 Inspiration 7, the newest version of the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the "Learning Tools" category for High Schools. Kidspiration, designed to help students in kindergarten through fifth build strong thinking skills with visual learning, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary Schools. This is the sixth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the third year for Kidspiration. "Inspiration Software is proud to have its products recognized again this year by the BESSIE Awards," said Mona Westhaver, company president and co-founder. "We join an impressive group of our colleagues in the education software industry in receiving this award." Find out more about the BESSIES and its sponsors at http://computedgazette.com/page3.html About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration® 7 and Kidspiration® Selected as Codie Award Finalists Portland, OR - January 14, 2003 The 2003 Codie Awards showcase the software and digital content industry's finest products and services and honor excellence for corporate achievement and philanthropic efforts. The 185 Codie Award finalists represent all types of companies, from emerging start-ups to traditional industry powerhouses. The finalists, as a whole, comprise 40 product and service categories in the consumer and corporate markets. In 2002, Inspiration 6 received the Codie Award for Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution and Kidspiration was a finalist in the Best Elementary Educational Instructional Solution category. "More than 10 million students and teachers worldwide recognize the power of Inspiration Software's visual learning software as important tools for building critical thinking skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is gratifying to have our products continue to be recognized by our peers in the software industry as well." The Codie Awards is the only peer recognition program in the software and information industry, providing a unique opportunity for companies to compete for the praise of their competitors. The 2003 Codie Awards will be presented at a black-tie gala on Tuesday, May 6, during the SIIA Conference at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. "The digital code and content industry is as innovative and vibrant as ever. For a company to make the cut as a finalist is a terrific achievement. Simply put, each finalist is a leader in its field. We are extremely proud to recognize the creativity and hard work that have brought them to this point," said Ken Wasch, SIIA president. About the Software & Information Industry Association About Inspiration Software, Inc. More Past AwardsKidspiration® and Inspiration® selected as EDDIE Award winnersPORTLAND, OR–August 6, 2002 The seventh annual EDDIE Awards are presented by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource. The awards aim to recognize innovative and content-rich programs that augment classroom curriculum and improve teacher productivity. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com. Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used by students grade 6 to adult to develop ideas and organize thinking. Kidspiration helps K-5 students build strong thinking skills with visual learning. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Dr. Toy Selects Inspiration® and Kidspiration® as Best Children’s Vacation Products for 2002 PORTLAND, OR - June, 2002 Dr. Toy's Best Children's Vacation Products are selected in cooperation with the Institute for Childhood Resources. Established in 1975, the company provides parents and professionals with the latest information on toys, software, games, tapes, and other children's products. Dr. Toy's review of Inspiration and Kidspiration can be found online in Dr. Toy's Guide at www.drtoy.com. Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used by students in grades 6-12 to develop ideas and organize thinking. Kidspiration helps K-5 students build strong thinking skills with visual learning. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software®, Inc. wins BESSIE Awards for Inspiration® and Kidspiration® Portland, OR - April 18, 2002 ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource, and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology (a nonprofit organization) annually present the BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available. For more information about ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration® and Kidspiration® Selected As Codie Award Finalists PORTLAND, OR – December 18, 2001 Selected from more than 700 nominees, Kidspiration was named a finalist in the Best Elementary Education Instructional Solution category, while Inspiration was named a finalist in the Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution category. "Kidspiration and Inspiration have been recognized by educators across the country as key software tools to assist students in learning. We are honored to also be recognized by the software and information industry as one of the best designed, most useful products for students by a panel of software industry experts," said Inspiration Software president Mona Westhaver. About Inspiration Software Products About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration® Wins Parent’s Guide 2001 Children’s Media Award PORTLAND, OR - December 11, 2001 Kidspiration helps young students see, organize and develop their ideas. Relying on proven visual learning techniques, Kidspiration is designed specifically to help young students create stories, organize information, understand concepts and express ideas. Kidspiration is used across the curriculum for a wide spectrum of visual learning activities including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming and more. The 2001 Children's Media awards are sponsored by Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc., a non-profit corporation committed to the enhancement of the quality and effectiveness of children's teaching media. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration™ wins Technology & Learning’s Award of Excellence October 23, 2001 – PORTLAND, OR As the leading developer of visual thinking tools, Inspiration Software products are used across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, and brainstorming. In an independent study, Scholastic's market research firm, Quality Education Data (QED), found that Inspiration Software products are currently in use by over sixty percent of U.S. school districts. For additional information about the company call 503/297-3004. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software®, Inc. wins Eddie awards for Inspiration® and Kidspiration® July 20, 2001 - PORTLAND, OR - San Diego's ComputED Learning Lab annually presents the EDDIE Awards, seeking to recognize innovative and content rich programs that augment classroom curriculum and improve teacher productivity. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com. Inspiration, the flagship product from Inspiration Software, is used by grades 4-12 across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more. Inspiration Software released Kidspiration in January of 2001. Designed specifically for grades K-3, Kidspiration helps students build strong thinking skills with visual learning. About Inspiration Software, Inc. Kidspiration® earns award from Curriculum Administrator June 26, 2001 – PORTLAND, OR – Judged by Curriculum Administrator’s editorial staff and correspondents, including Warren Buckleitner of Children’s Software Revue, the Districts’ Choice Top 100 awards are given to products that truly enhance teaching and learning. Read about the top 100 awards and the review of Kidspiration at www.ca-magazine.com/top100.phtml. Kidspiration inspires young readers and writers to develop skills and confidence as they learn to organize and develop their thoughts. As students use Kidspiration to brainstorm ideas, create stories and categorize information, they’re building strong foundations for reading, writing and communication. About Inspiration Software®, Inc. Kidspiration® wins the National Parenting Center’s Seal of Approval April 20, 2001 – PORTLAND, OR Reviewers at TNPC praised Kidspiration for its visual learning techniques and the ease with which young students learned the program. "Kidspiration invites exploration from a central idea with limitless branches of thought. Our testers, even those as young as five years old, grasped the concept with gusto." The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval program is an independent testing procedure which judges a variety of products marketed to parents and children. Parents, children and educators examine and test products for level of desirability, interactive stimulation and other ingredients essential in the make-up of a quality product. To learn more about TNPC and read the review of Kidspiration, visit the TNPC web site at www.tnpc.com About Inspiration Software, Inc. Inspiration Software®, Inc. wins BESSIE Awards March 22, 2001- The BESSIE Awards, given annually by San Diego's ComputED Learning Lab, seek to recognize innovative and content-rich programs which are appropriate for family purchase. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the BESSIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com. Inspiration Software's flagship product, Inspiration, is used by grades 4-12 across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more. Inspiration Software released Kidspiration in January of 2001. Designed specifically for grades K-3, Kidspiration helps students build strong thinking skills with visual learning. About Inspiration Software, Inc. | ||
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