5 Benefits of Automating Tuition Fee Payments

Tuition payments are at the heart of your school’s operations. Without a solid approach to tuition management, managing school fees can be a time consuming and error-prone process. Tuition payment solutions like FACTS help your school streamline the way you handle finances by simplifying tuition fee payment tracking and management.

With tuition fees remitted on your preferred dates, both your administrative team and school families will save considerable time and effort compared with a manual approach.

Here are five of the most significant benefits of automating tuition fee payments.

Automatic payments mean that the bulk of school fees will arrive on time and in full – without any work from your administrative team. A digital approach means all payments are automatically matched to the correct family account, meaning no data entry, manual reconciliation or record-keeping is needed. FACTS offers the highest data security standards in the industry, providing peace of mind that all transactions are encrypted and secure.

Life is busy. Between work, running a home, and managing children’s schooling and extra-curricular activities, there’s a lot for parents to stay on top of. Automated tuition fee payments take one big thing off the to-do list for busy families, giving them peace of mind that school fees are taken care of without anything for them to do.

A tuition management solution that provides families with automatic reminders that fees are due to be debited will dramatically reduce the number of late payments your school receives. However, there will always be occasions where payments are declined due to a lack of funds. When this happens, your tuition system should provide families with automatic notifications of failed payments and overdue reminders, ensuring a streamlined process with no manual intervention from school staff required.

Automatic payments provide your school with consistent and predictable income each month. Your administrative team will always have a clear view of your current and expected school fee income, taking the guesswork out of budgeting and managing cash flow.

Automated tuition fees provide better transparency for all school stakeholders. The administrative team, school principal, and families have a real-time view of payment status and account balances, with one source of truth meaning no missed payments or payment disputes. External stakeholders can be given access to view your school’s financial position and expected income at a glance.

FACTS lets you monitor important financial metrics and create custom reports for your school, and schedule daily, weekly, or monthly notifications to send to key people.

Automated fee payments allow staff and families to spend less time and effort managing tuition and more time focusing on students. Automatic billing will help your school take a more structured approach to financial management while providing better convenience and transparency for families.

FACTS is a powerful tuition management solution that supports a best practice approach to tuition fees. It expands payment options for families and simplifies billing, budgeting, cash flow management, and financial reporting, empowering school staff to spend more time on the things that matter.

As business offices evaluate their processes in the wake of changing school policies and ever-evolving technology priorities, keeping payment compliance top of mind is critical. Maintaining compliance for software applications that process payments is demanding, requiring regular audits and reports as well as knowledgeable staff.

The security of cardholder information is of the highest importance. Schools face a choice: Install a software application on premise and maintain PCI DSS compliance for all payments processed at your school or partner with a Software as a Service (SaaS) vendor or Application Service Provider (ASP) who maintains the software to meet PCI DSS compliance, reducing the school’s compliance scope.

Payment processing applications are governed primarily by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), which maintains security policies and procedures based on requirements from the major payment brands, like VISA.

“PCI DSS covers the security of the environments that store, process, or transmit account data,” said IT Manager for Cyber Security at FACTS. “This includes requirements for the security management, policies, procedures, network architecture, secure software design, security awareness training, and other critical protective measures.”

The Payment Application-Data Security Standard (PA-DSS), established in 2008, is derived from the PCI DSS, and details payment application requirements to be PCI DSS compliant (and therefore what a payment application must support to facilitate the school’s PCI DSS compliance). PA-DSS requirements are intended to help software vendors develop secure payment applications that support PCI DSS compliance when installed within their customer’s PCI DSS environment.

“In other words, PA-DSS validated payment applications must facilitate – not prevent – PCI DSS compliance,” FACTS IT Manager continued. “When a school purchases a PA-DSS validated product, they receive a software application and the responsibilities for the infrastructure support and maintenance that will support the application; installing the application in a PCI DSS complaint manner; and maintaining, administering, and supporting the application, all within their PCI DSS environment.”

This entails a lot of work for the school. IT staff will use the vendor’s implementation guide to install the application on premise in a PCI DSS compliant manner. The PA-DSS software is required to meet applicable PCI DSS requirements, including:

Compliance requirements vary depending on the number of transactions processed annually by an institution. A smaller school with a limited number of transactions per year may be able to complete a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ), a self-validation tool to assess security for cardholder data. Large schools that process high volumes of payment transactions may be required to work with a PCI Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) to complete more in-depth assessments.

FACTS is PCI DSS Level 1 assessed based on the number of transactions processed annually.

A PCI DSS assessment can take around two or three months, and will evaluate evidence for compliance with PCI standards that covers an entire year. This validates that their business as usual activity — the activity throughout the year, not just during the evaluation period — supported PCI DSS compliance requirements.

The PCI QSA annually confirms you are meeting both technical and non-technical requirements throughout the year. In order to accomplish this, the PCI QSA requires evidence, interviews, and also some hands-on reviews of devices, files, and procedures during the assessment period.

The PCI QSA assures that you meet all PCI DSS requirements.

“Many people are unaware that there are many non-technical requirements that are evaluated, including hiring practices; security awareness training; assigning roles and responsibilities to meet the requirements; maintaining and testing incident response; and creation of policies, standards, and processes to support the intent of the requirements,” FACTS IT Manager said. “There are also many technical requirements, including periodic reviews of firewalls and routers, file integrity monitoring, anti-virus and malware protection, backup and restoration validations, logging activities, meeting retention requirements, timely patching of devices, operating systems and applications, and vulnerability management – including internal and external quarterly scans and annual penetration tests. Those are just some of the many technical requirements that will need to be maintained and will be reviewed by the PCI QSA.”

On the other hand, schools that choose vendor-hosted solutions or SaaS software find that they have reduced their compliance scope, since the application software provider is then responsible for ensuring that the hosted environment is secure.

“The PCI SSC does not require that an entity use a PA-DSS validated application. An application with the PA-DSS certification only denotes that the application can be configured to meet PCI DSS requirements,” FACTS explained.

When a client decides to use our PCI DSS validated SaaS solutions, they know that FACTS adheres to industry-leading PCI standards to manage our network, secure our web-based applications, and set policies across our organization. FACTS has its own cyber security group, which works closely with the corporate cyber security group of parent company Nelnet, Inc. Together we employ an array of experts in compliance and security. We are assessed as a Level 1 PCI DSS Service Provider, which means FACTS is responsible to ensure that:

FACTS ensures that PCI compliance is part of our business-as-usual process by monitoring security controls, reviewing hardware and software technologies to ensure they are supported by the vendor and meet security standards, evaluating changes to the environment or the organizational structure, performing periodic reviews and communications to confirm all PCI DSS requirements continue to be in place and personnel are following secure processes, and verifying that appropriate evidence is maintained to assist in the PCI DSS compliance assessment.

While protecting cardholder data is key, schools must take into account the full scope of their compliance responsibilities. This becomes especially important as many institutions are facing tighter budgets. In order to continue to best serve your students and the broader school communities of alumni, sports fans, donors, and neighbors, institutions must be able to provide flexible payment options that are mobile-friendly and secure.

Knowing that FACTS is taking the above responsibilities provides customers assurance that we are taking the proper steps to secure the data they have entrusted to us.

The cost of living in Australia is rising rapidly and expected to continue to grow throughout 2023. Nine consecutive interest rate hikes and the highest inflation rate in more than 30 years have put families under significant financial pressure as the cost of everything from groceries to petrol, utilities, healthcare, rent, and mortgage payments skyrockets.

With household budgets stretched and no relief in sight, many families are finding it challenging to meet their tuition fee commitments. According to Finder’s 2023 Parenting Report, 17% of Australian parents are considering moving their children from private to public schools to reduce their education expenses.

For this reason, it’s vital that schools manage tuition fee payments in a way that’s sensitive to families while ensuring their collection rate is maintained.

Your school’s tuition fee policy should be communicated regularly and available online for families to review anytime. It should be transparent and actively enforced. Your hardship policy should only be shared on an as-needs basis with families in genuine need.

Each family’s financial situation is unique and should be managed accordingly. However, skipping an entire term or semester’s fees can make it challenging for struggling families to catch up. If possible, it’s best to negotiate for reduced payments to be made on the regular due date.

Tuition management software with a self-service portal makes it easy for families to manage their fee payments in a way that suits them. By offering flexible due dates within predetermined parameters and accepting a wide range of payment methods, your school can make it more likely that fees will be paid in full and on time.

One of the most compelling benefits of tuition management software is that it automates arrears management. Automatic reminders when payments are missed means most late fees are paid without any manual intervention from your business office, giving them more time to work with families experiencing hardship.

FACTS offers powerful tuition management capability that empowers schools to implement a best practice approach to tuition fees. More than 11,500 K-12 schools globally trust FACTS’s suite of school and financial management solutions to help them elevate the education experience.

You don’t have to work in the education sector to know that the last few years have been tough for teachers. The pandemic had a seismic impact on educators in Australia and New Zealand, with a 2022 Monash University study finding that teachers’ satisfaction with their roles dropped from 66% in 2019 (pre-COVID) to 46% in 2022.

The same report found that one in four teachers don’t feel safe at work, less than 14% report that their workload is manageable, and only three in ten plan on staying in the profession.

A high workload and poor work-life balance are key drivers of the current teacher exodus. And, with the number of teachers burning out and leaving the profession growing, this places even more pressure on the teachers who remain.

While there’s no magic cure for burnout, one of the best ways to combat it is to raise the profile of wellbeing at your school. Encouraging teachers to invest in their wellbeing and letting them know that it’s okay to admit they’re struggling or need support is increasingly as important as allocating time for lesson planning or report writing.

Here are some ways your school can promote and prioritise teacher wellbeing.

With technology allowing us to work anytime, anywhere, many teachers feel they can never entirely switch off. Chances are the teachers at your school are responding to emails, lesson planning, and assessing student work into the evening.

Let staff and families know that work-life balance is a priority at your school, and give educators permission to disconnect during their time off. Set schoolwide expectations that emails sent after a certain time don’t have to be answered until the next day – and ensure families are aware that after-hours emails won’t be dealt with immediately.

A common source of stress caused by the teacher shortage is educators regularly being asked to do things they’re not trained to do. Teachers are increasingly expected to take on roles they have no experience in, often with limited support.

Ensure your school is setting educators up for success by investing in professional development and coaching to help them take on new responsibilities with confidence. Whether they need support with new technology or mentoring to deal with specific learning difficulties more effectively, championing a continuous learning mindset at your school will drive teacher satisfaction and improve learning outcomes.

In addition to professional development opportunities, schools should also take advantage of technology that streamlines administrative tasks for teachers. For example, a school management system should have features that automate regular and repeatable activities. Things like taking attendance, recording assessments, and communicating with families should be simple to manage in one secure platform, enabling teachers to focus on learning delivery and student wellbeing.

New teachers are especially susceptible to stress and burnout, especially those who began their teaching careers during the pandemic – one of the most chaotic periods in the history of education.

Take a structured and thorough approach to onboarding your school’s new teachers, prioritising wellbeing. Build regular formal and informal check-ins with new starters into your school’s wellbeing plan and connect them with mentor teachers who have the knowledge, experience, and personal attributes to build rewarding relationships with new educators.

Recognition is a crucial driver of employee engagement and satisfaction across all sectors. Everyone wants to be celebrated for a job well done, whether it’s via a shoutout in a meeting or something more formal.

Make awarding teachers with small tokens of gratitude something your school leadership team does regularly and encourage teachers to recognise their peers in the same way. Be specific about why you’re acknowledging them and remind them that you know they’re doing work worth being celebrated every day.

As managing enrolments becomes a year-round task, many schools are reflecting on their enrolment process. While the start-of-year intake is the major enrolment event for schools, managing enrolment is an admin-heavy task that requires close management at all stages of the year.

Enrolments are particularly complex to keep on top of because different families will join the enrolment pipeline at various times throughout the school year – and will enter the workflow at different points. Students with siblings already at the school will follow a different communication pathway to those on the waitlist, for example.

Responding to expressions of interest, coordinating school tours and processing enrolment applications is a time-consuming and labour-intensive job that can leave prospective families with a negative first impression if it’s not managed professionally.

So, how does your school perform in the following key areas?

Capturing and managing prospective student data digitally is foundational to providing a modern and efficient enrolment process. From collecting expressions of interest to communicating with prospective families and enrolling accepted students, a digital enrolment process ensures all data is stored and managed centrally.

With a digital enrolment process, your school business office has complete visibility of all enrolment information and can send individual or bulk communications to prospective families and collect tuition fees without creating any physical paperwork. And, of course, a hosted solution lets staff work remotely from any device.

Managing enrolments is a substantial task, particularly at schools with a large volume of applications. Without a well-structured process, it’s easy for enrolment-related activities to slip through the cracks during busy periods. And, with the soaring cost of living putting family budgets under pressure (Finder’s Parenting Report found that 17% of families are contemplating moving their child from a private school to a public school to reduce their expenses) schools are having to work harder to convert prospective students to confirmed enrolments.

Families are no longer willing to print, scan, and return paper-based forms – they expect an online enrolment process and clear, sequential communications that keep them engaged in a process that’s often many years long. It’s vital that your school makes it easy for administrative staff – and families – to track the progress of each student application from an expression of interest through to confirmed enrolment.

Enrolling a new student creates plenty of work for a school – but also for that student’s family. There are forms to complete, documents to provide, and payments to manage.

Your student onboarding process should comprise an efficient workflow for administrative staff that offers a superior enrolment experience for families. Making it simple for parents to submit the information your school needs and make tuition payments online shows them you value their time and creates a positive early impression. Automated reminders and notifications ensure that they always know what’s required of them and the next steps.

FACTS School Management empowers schools in Australia and New Zealand to manage the complete student lifecycle seamlessly. We partner with leading education brands like Digistorm and 2Go for Schools to support a best-practice approach to managing enrolments.

Transitioning to a new school management system (SMS) can feel daunting. Your SMS is the backbone of your school’s operations and plays a crucial role in many aspects of school management.

In our experience, it’s not uncommon for schools to continue using a school management system that’s not quite right for them for years due to concerns about the difficulty of moving to a new solution. Transitioning to a new SMS takes significant research, planning, communication and cooperation – it’s a large project that’s not for the fainthearted.

However, if your current SMS isn’t offering the functionality, access, or performance your school needs to operate efficiently and grow, it’s probably time to move to a new school management platform.

In this blog, we share seven steps to make your school’s transition to a new SMS smooth and successful.

Once you’ve decided to move to a new SMS, it’s important to clearly define your motivation for making a change and the outcome you’re seeking. How does your existing system fall short? What do you need from your new school management system? Consider these questions from the perspective of all SMS users – administrative staff, teachers, families, and students. What does your new platform need to provide to offer a best-practice user experience for each of these groups?

Speak to local and aspirational schools about their SMS journeys. Attend conferences and networking events and speak to those you come across at training and personal development days about the student management system their school uses. If you’ve shortlisted a handful of SMS providers, do your own research into which schools are using their system, then reach out to these schools to ask what they like and dislike about the platform. This is also a great opportunity to ask for any transition tips!

While budget shouldn’t be the only deciding factor in your decision, it’s a crucial consideration – there’s no point identifying the perfect SMS for your school if it’s just not affordable. Look at how much you spend on your current school management system and identify and quantify additional savings your shortlisted platforms would provide. Share these calculations and a breakdown of what each system offers with your leadership team to make your case.

Moving from one SMS to another can take weeks or even months. Records, workflows, reporting, and more must be carefully reviewed and transferred to ensure no data is lost during the transition. Time for staff training and staggered communication with students and families should also be factored in. Your new school management system provider should provide an indicative timeline based on their experience with similar schools; it’s also worth checking in with other schools about their experiences.

Your SMS impacts and is used by a range of different groups, so it’s crucial to involve all areas and stakeholders in transition planning. Schools often establish a committee that’s responsible for considering the entire scope of the platform – from defining different user groups and their needs to system access and permissions, how historical data will be transferred, and, importantly, how the system will be maintained once implemented.

Bringing stakeholders on the journey is an important part of transitioning to a new SMS. If you’re committed to moving to a new student management system, let staff, families and students know a change is planned and keep them updated throughout the process, focusing on each group’s unique need-to-knows.

Your new SMS will only be as effective as the people who are using it. Replacing a crucial operational system often causes anxiety and change resistance, so starting early with training is a sound strategy. If staff aren’t trained, confident, and willing to use the system, it’s unlikely to deliver the expected benefits. Targeted training designed to meet the needs of different user groups will encourage teachers, administrative staff, and the leadership team to get behind the new system and contribute to a smooth transition.

Moving to a new SMS is a big change for any school – but using the right school management system can be completely transformative. A structured approach to the changeover that gives sufficient attention to tasks including research, planning, communication, training and implementation will give your school the best chance of making a successful transition that delivers the expected benefits.

In recent years, schools have embraced digital technology for education delivery. While they’re successfully going digital to improve learning outcomes, the opportunity to revolutionise the school business office technology isn’t always exploited. Many administrative teams are still stretched managing tasks like enrolment, communication, and tuition fees manually.

Below are challenges schools face when managing payments manually and the compelling opportunities that going digital presents.

Managing fee payments manually is a time-consuming, inefficient, and error-prone process. Generating invoices, tracking payments via spreadsheets, and managing arrears manually add significant burdens to the business office.

Tuition management software like FACTS simplifies and automates the way they manage tuition, with no manual reconciliation required. Payments are received on time and automatically matched to the correct family’s account. Missed instalments are promptly collected without work from your team.

Paying school fees is one of many to-dos for busy families. By enabling families to understand their fees, track payments, and make online payments, tuition management software simplifies their administrative tasks and increases the likelihood of timely payments. Families have 24/7 visibility and the flexibility to manage their payment plans (within the school’s parameters).

Collecting payment information in the office exposes schools to potential data breaches. Accepting cash or cheques also carries the risk of misplacing money, making errors in payment attribution, theft, or fraud. FACTS provides level-1 PCI DSS certification, ensuring the highest level of data compliance and giving schools confidence in the security of payment information.

Tuition fees are a primary source of income for most schools. Therefore, having an accurate, real-time view of finances is crucial for effective budget and cash flow management.

Tuition management software allows stakeholders to monitor current and expected fee income at the individual family level. Custom reports can be generated and shared with key personnel without waiting for manual payments to be processed or banked.

A manual approach makes it difficult for schools to manage arrears proactively, as human error or processing delays may mean payments aren’t accurately or promptly reflected.

An automated approach dramatically reduces late payments and allows the schools to manage arrears with confidence armed with accurate information. System-generated failed payment notifications and overdue reminders makes difficult conversations infrequent.

Automating fee management allows your business office to run more efficiently, improve collection rates, and provide certainty around tuition income. It also makes it easier for families by giving them oversight and the flexibility to self-manage via a secure payment portal.

FACTS Tuition Management gives families a convenient way to pay and strengthens schools’ financial management.

The right school management platforms support schools to operate more efficiently and effectively.

Best-in-class school software captures and integrates all aspects of running a school. From operations to teaching, communication, tuition fees and financial management, a quality school management solution allows schools to build a strong foundation for the future.

FACTS School Management offers comprehensive security features to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your data. The system supports single sign-on, role-based access controls, regular backups, data encryption, regular software updates and security patches, and compliance with the ISO 27001 standard. The combination of these features ensures robust protection for your school’s sensitive information.

Modern families look increasingly different from families of decades past, which can make managing communication and sensitive information challenging. FACTS allows schools to capture complex family relationships and documents and use this information to navigate this sometimes-tricky landscape with confidence.

Digitising and automating regular and repeatable tasks gives schools more time to spend on value-adding activities and learning delivery. FACTS lets schools communicate easily and instantly with staff, families, and students, driving stronger engagement and reducing the school’s administrative burden. With enrolment, communication, alumni management, and more managed via intuitive 24/7 portals, sharing information and collecting forms, payments and medical information is simple.

Leading school management solutions make planning, creating and delivering learning simple. FACTS supports optimised timetabling, attendance management, assessment, and modified learning programs. Parent-teacher interviews and wellbeing workflows are managed digitally, and customisable analytics allow for seamless performance tracking of the entire school or a specific cohort – even down to the individual student level.

Managing school finances is a challenging and time-consuming task that’s even more difficult without a whole-school approach. FACTS’ integrated accounting package incorporates debtor and creditor management, payroll, fixed asset management, and purchase orders and workflows, making manual reconciliation and double entry a thing of the past. A real-time view of the school’s financial position and advanced analytics capability support informed decision-making.

Automating tuition payments lets schools deliver a better payment experience for families while reducing the administrative load and providing predictable income. FACTS Tuition Management can be used independently or as part of the FACTS School Management suite. Families can self-manage payment plan accounts and use a range of payment methods.

Schools must comply with government reporting requirements regarding student enrolment, achievement, and attendance. FACTS allows schools to create customised reports to meet these requirements as well as their own reporting needs.

Each school takes a unique approach to managing its library program, resource booking, bus tracking, and more. FACTS’ specialist modules support central management of these important aspects.

As the education sector evolves, it’s crucial that schools surround themselves with partners who have a deep understanding of the learning landscape and a willingness to respond to changing needs.

At FACTS, our partner program sees us work with leading brands across the education spectrum. Our seamless third-party integrations and API library makes it easier than ever to focus on what matters: helping students reach new heights.

Scholarship, voucher, and scholarship granting organizations (SGOs) are crucial in making education accessible to students. However, as these programs grow, it can become challenging to manage the increasing volume and complexity of applications. It isn’t just a bonus for SGOs to achieve scalability, it’s essential in meeting evolving application demands.

As SGOs expand, they face many new obstacles, including:

• High Application Volume: Processing hundreds or thousands of applications can overwhelm manual systems and impact the accuracy of automated systems.
• Eligibility Verification: Customizing and verifying eligibility criteria for each program requires a robust system.
• Family Support: Applicants need clear guidance to navigate the process and submit required documents.
• Program Integrity: Maintaining accurate data and ensuring compliance is critical to the program’s success.

A scalable solution grows with your program, making it easier to manage increased demand without compromising efficiency. Look for a solution that offers:

• Adaptability: Adaptable solutions can handle growing applicant numbers without sacrificing performance and accuracy.
• Customizable Processes: Look for a tool that allows you to tailor eligibility verification to each program’s unique requirements.
• Integration: Achieve smooth workflows with a platform that seamlessly connects with external programs you already use.
• API-Driven Verification: Save time with a tool that automates data checks for increased accuracy and efficiency.

FACTS offers proven tools to help SGOs manage their programs effectively. Our application process is designed for scalability, with features like:

• Reduced data collection for simpler applications, increasing the number of successful family engagements
• Comprehensive document collection for accurate eligibility verification
• Seamless integration with ESA and fund management platforms
• Automated data verification for accuracy and compliance

Scalable solutions like the FACTS application module are key to managing growth and ensuring long-term success. If your SGO is ready to take the next step, FACTS can help. Learn more or schedule a consultation.

Teacher retention is a top priority for leaders who want to ensure school stability and success. When teachers leave, the effects ripple across the school community, impacting student learning, increasing costs, and creating challenges for administrators and staff. Retaining talented educators is essential for creating an environment where students and teachers can thrive.

Teachers play a pivotal role in student achievement. Studies show that consistent, high-quality instruction directly positively affects student outcomes. High turnover disrupts this consistency, leaving students with gaps in their learning and schools struggling to rebuild momentum.

The financial cost of turnover is also substantial. A study by the Learning Policy Institute estimates that replacing a single teacher can cost districts between $9,000 and $20,000 depending on location and other factors. For schools operating within tight budgets, these costs add up quickly, pulling resources away from other essential priorities.

Retention is particularly crucial in schools serving high-need communities, where the loss of experienced educators can widen opportunity gaps. Keeping strong teachers in the classroom ensures students in these schools receive the education they need and deserve.

When teachers feel supported and valued, they are more likely to stay. Professional development and coaching address the root causes of turnover by strengthening skills, boosting confidence, and building meaningful connections among educators.

• Skill Development: Targeted professional learning gives teachers practical tools to overcome challenges in their classrooms. RAND Corporation’s study found that teachers who participate in meaningful professional development report higher job satisfaction and are less likely to leave the profession.
• Leadership and Growth Opportunities: Educators who see clear pathways for professional growth are more motivated to stay in their roles. A Teach Plus report shows that leadership opportunities paired with time to collaborate with peers increase teacher motivation and retention.
• Personalized Coaching: Instructional coaching offers individualized feedback to help teachers refine their practice. A meta-analysis by Kraft, Blazar, and Hogan demonstrated that coaching not only improves teaching effectiveness but also contributes to higher retention rates. Teachers engaged in coaching programs often report greater confidence and a stronger sense of support in their roles.

FACTS helps schools develop meaningful professional development and coaching programs tailored to their unique needs. By working closely with administrators, we ensure that teachers feel supported at every stage of their careers.

Professional Development

FACTS Professional Development programs focus on practical, high-impact strategies that teachers can immediately apply in their classrooms. Programs cover topics from classroom management to social-emotional learning. With an extensive list of relevant, data-driven topics, each session addresses current challenges educators face, providing tools backed by research and proven to make a difference.

Leadership and Instructional Coaching

Through personalized coaching, teachers and leaders gain the tools to build confidence, improve instructional practices, and strengthen learning communities. FACTS coaching approach emphasizes collaboration, actionable feedback, and measurable growth, helping educators address specific challenges while achieving their professional goals. Sessions are uniquely designed to create lasting impact, enhance engagement, and drive continuous improvement for new teachers, seasoned educators, and school leaders.

When schools invest in their teachers, they invest in their students’ success. FACTS is here to help your school create a culture where educators feel valued, supported, and equipped to excel.

Want to learn more about our professional development and coaching services?

Let’s work together to help your teachers excel and keep them where they’re needed most.

These days, many people turn to an app for almost everything. By offering an app at your school, you can be a part of your families’ daily routine. From streamlined communications to swift notifications, your app can be the key to better transparency and a smooth connection between parents and administrators. But how? Here are three ways your school app can bridge the gap between teachers and families.

Be Always Available

Many parents — especially Gen Z parents—spend a lot of time on their phones. Whether they’re shopping online, looking for directions, or talking to their friends and family, they turn to a mobile app for answers no matter if it’s early in the morning or late at night.

Your school’s app can be there for parents to look at information about what’s happening at school any time, and if they need to send a communication during off hours, they can reach out and receive a reply later, adding to the convenience. This can also help save your school administrators time during the day, as they will spend less time on the phone and more time handling other important matters around the school.

Offer Transparency

Families value transparency and need to know their student’s status at school in a clear and timely manner. Your school app can make the school experience as clear as possible by offering upfront communication and updates in one easy-to-access place.

Allow parents to see grades, assignments, and their completion status simply by logging into the app. Families can also review attendance and reach out when they need to, keeping everything open on both ends.

Communicate Effectively

We’ve talked about keeping open lines of communication for the parents, but what about administrators? With an app, your team can get in touch whenever and however they need to. Whether it’s banners in the app with updates, notifications to families about upcoming events, or push notifications to your families’ devices about their student’s attendance status, your administrators can stay in touch efficiently and effectively with the app and save time doing it.

Introducing an app like FACTS Family Custom App to your school community can be the key to simplifying communication, maximizing transparency, and improving engagement between parents and staff. Share crucial information, videos, and make payments on one easy-to-use platform that shows off who your school really is.

Learn more about FACTS Family Custom App and how it can be your solution to better communications at FACTSmgt.com.

No matter if you’re a public, private, or independent school community, fundraising is something you’ll likely need to do at some point. Fundraising isn’t only about collecting donations, however. It’s also a chance to boost morale and get your students, staff, and families full of school pride and the spirit of giving. But how do you plan the perfect fundraiser? From planning to execution, we’ll show you how to create the best fundraiser to benefit those in and around your community.

What Makes a Good Fundraiser

When planning your next fundraiser, you should consider three things to ensure it’s a success: ease of setup, low costs, and high return.

Choosing an event that is easy and low cost to set up can make fundraising more convenient for your staff, students, and families. With lower stakes, your fundraiser can be more accessible to people who may not have the time or resources for something bigger. A low-cost setup can also lighten the resources your school provides, leaving a smaller gap between money spent and money made.

Choosing the Right Cause

Before starting your fundraiser, you need a cause. Where is this money going, or who is it going to? These are questions donors will need answers to before they decide to give funds. Choosing the right cause is the first and best way to ensure your fundraiser is one that aligns with your school and your community. Whether you’re raising funds to offer scholarships to students or to buy new school supplies and equipment, you need to create a strong cause that people are excited to rally around.

Your fundraising cause can also help emerging causes gain traction. A fundraiser is a great way to kick off a new or special program within the school, from STEM and SEL programs to new language learning or multicultural programs. This is your chance to create an event that highlights who your school is and how you are a solid part of your local community.

Ways to Fundraise at Your School

Make your next fundraiser one to remember no matter how much money you want to raise. Here are some of our favorite ideas for simple fundraisers your school can try:

These options offer a fun, low stakes way for everyone to get involved and give in a way that makes them feel active and committed to the school and community. Pick up litter around the neighborhood, get everyone smiling by showing off your furry friends, or start a little friendly competition with a chili cookoff! Fundraisers can be an annual, semi-annual, or other recurring event that ensures your school can keep getting everyone together, involved, and full of school spirit.

How FACTS Giving Can Help

At FACTS, we understand schools’ needs for a giving solution that makes the process easy, safe, and affordable. That’s where FACTS Giving comes in. With three unique plans offering the best tools for your specific fundraising needs, you can have peace of mind when you plan your next fundraiser. Jump in with no-hassle implementation, simple integration with FACTS SIS, and next-gen features like text-to-give.

Ready to create your next school fundraiser? Learn how FACTS Giving can help set you up for success.

We’re excited to share that FACTS (formerly CD2 Learning) has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Employee LMSs for 2024 by Talented Learning. This recognition, awarded by industry expert John Leh, highlights our ongoing commitment to delivering an effective and user-friendly platform for employee learning, including onboarding, talent development, and upskill training.

FACTS’ LMS goes beyond the basics, offering organizations a flexible solution for training and development that evolves with the needs of their teams. From onboarding new hires to equipping employees with new skills as they progress in their careers, FACTS delivers the tools organizations need to foster ongoing learning and professional growth.

FACTS’ LMS is trusted by organizations across industries for its comprehensive capabilities. The platform simplifies compliance tracking, offers customizable training modules, and provides valuable reporting tools to measure employee progress and development. This versatility ensures that businesses can adapt the platform to their specific needs while supporting their teams’ continuous learning and advancement.

FACTS remains dedicated to helping organizations invest in their workforce, offering the tools necessary to build engaged, high-performing teams. This recognition from Talented Learning further highlights FACTS’ role as a key player in employee learning and development.

Interested in learning more about our award-winning LMS? Visit www.factsmgt.com/markets/corporate-learning-solutions.

From our trusted partner, Dewar.

With school back in session for the 2024-25 academic year, many schools will begin their financial planning for the subsequent academic year. As you begin your preliminary conversations around budgeting, here are some tips for safeguarding your budgeted tuition income.

Private schools rely on student enrollment and tuition income for ongoing expenses such as faculty and staff salaries, campus maintenance, employee benefits, and more. When a student withdraws, the school’s expenses remain unchanged, making it essential to explore solutions that secure tuition commitments and safeguard the financial health of the school.

While student withdrawal experience at your school may vary year to year, we know that no school is immune to mid-year attrition. Each school year, you may experience withdrawals due to a variety of unexpected reasons such as a family move, change in financial circumstances, medical condition(s), or a family simply deciding the school is no longer the best fit for their student.

An annual financial obligation is becoming increasingly common among faith-based schools as the cost of private education rises and the financial impact of student withdrawals is felt more than ever.

Requiring families to commit to the full annual tuition is a best practice among private schools for establishing financial stability and mitigating risk. This policy creates a clearly defined financial commitment, ensuring that families are fully committed to the school. Schools establish a binding date in the enrollment contract (typically sometime between June 1 and July 15) by which families are responsible for the full annual tuition.

While schools may budget for potential losses from student withdrawals or rely on a waitlist to fill open seats mid-year, unforeseen circumstances can still force students to withdraw. However, there will always be unforeseen circumstances that force students to withdraw, and speculating the impact of mid-year withdrawals on tuition income or that a withdrawn student’s seat will be filled often results in significant lost tuition income.

With an annual enrollment contract, schools ensure an accurate budget with tuition income projections based on the number of signed contracts from families regardless of whether a student completes the academic year. In fact, schools without an annual obligation typically experience higher mid-year attrition rates compared to schools with an annual obligation.

More than 1,000 private schools throughout North America utilize The Tuition Refund Plan to refund unused tuition and cover unpaid charges in the event of student separation. When a separation occurs, schools trust tuition insurance to assist those families who pay in installments to fulfill any unpaid balance at the time of withdrawal or dismissal. The Tuition Refund Plan provides benefits for virtually any type of withdrawal or dismissal that occurs during the academic year.

• Zero cost to the school as families pay the premium
• Claim payments made directly to the school for credit to the student’s account
• Allows school to collect tuition income that otherwise may have been lost
• Allows families the ability to withdraw without significant financial impact to themselves or the school

If you are interested in protecting your annual tuition income, experts at Dewar welcome the opportunity to assist you in implementing an annual tuition contract and supplementing it with a tuition insurance plan.

Visit FACTSmgt.com/Partners/Dewar to learn more or contact [email protected].

Corporate training is no longer just about ticking boxes. Organizations need training solutions that equip employees with the skills to stay competitive and ensure customers can maximize the value of the products they use. To meet these demands, companies need adaptable and innovative learning solutions.

FACTS’ Learning Management System (LMS) bridges this gap, offering a platform that supports both employee training and customer education. This unified approach helps organizations foster deeper engagement, drive performance, and support long-term development.

Traditionally, employee training and customer education have been managed separately. However, forward-thinking organizations recognize the need for consistency across all learning experiences. FACTS’ LMS integrates both internal and external learning, offering a cohesive platform for onboarding, compliance, professional development, and customer education.

By streamlining these functions, organizations can offer personalized, role-specific content for all learners, whether it’s a new hire or a long-standing customer.

Learners today expect tailored experiences that align with their goals. FACTS’ LMS allows organizations to customize learning paths based on individual roles, needs, and preferences. This personalized approach ensures that both employees and customers receive relevant, engaging content that supports their growth.

For companies, this personalization helps boost engagement and loyalty, keeping learners invested in their journey.

Gamification is changing how organizations approach learning. FACTS’ LMS incorporates badging systems and progress tracking to motivate learners through visible achievements. This gamified approach encourages continuous learning, giving users tangible goals that keep them engaged, whether they’re gaining new skills or deepening product knowledge.

Learning isn’t just about content delivery—it’s about measuring impact. FACTS’ LMS offers automated real-time analytics that provide insights into learner engagement and course performance. These data-driven insights allow organizations to make informed decisions, identify learning gaps, and continuously improve their training programs.

The future of corporate training is lifelong learning. As organizations adapt to new challenges, they need flexible, scalable solutions to support ongoing growth. FACTS’ LMS is designed to foster a culture of learning, empowering businesses to stay agile and keep pace with change.

FACTS is not just a solution provider—it’s a thought leader in the evolving world of corporate learning. As companies face increasingly complex demands from both their workforce and customers, the ability to offer flexible, personalized, and data-driven learning solutions will be key to success. The shift from rigid, one-size-fits-all training programs to adaptable, learner-centric approaches is already transforming the way businesses operate.

Corporate training is no longer about checking a box. It’s about creating meaningful learning experiences that engage and develop employees while empowering customers to maximize their potential. FACTS’ LMS is at the forefront of this transformation, helping businesses build a more connected, knowledgeable, and future-ready workforce.

Discover how personalized learning with FACTS LMS can transform your training strategy and boost engagement across your organization.

October 20 marks National Youth Confidence Day, a time to reflect on the importance of nurturing self-assurance in young people. Confidence plays a vital role in a student’s academic success and overall development, and schools serve as a critical environment where children can cultivate this essential trait. In the rapidly evolving digital age, edtech solutions are emerging as valuable tools to empower students and enhance their sense of self-belief, too. Here’s how schools and edtech providers like FACTS are working to create strong, confident students.

The Role of Schools in Building Confidence

School is not just a place for academic learning; it’s also where students begin to form their self-image, discover their strengths, and build resilience. Educators play an integral role in helping students build confidence by providing positive reinforcement, fostering a growth mindset, and creating a safe and supportive environment where children feel empowered to take risks and learn from mistakes.

When schools implement inclusive practices that acknowledge individual achievements—both big and small—students start to believe in their capabilities. This belief drives motivation, encouraging students to engage with their education and take charge of their learning experience. As students develop this sense of agency, they’re more likely to push beyond their comfort zones, face challenges head-on, and cultivate a lifelong confidence in their ability to succeed.

How Edtech Can Empower Student Confidence

Technology can further reinforce this process, providing students with access to tools and resources that help them better manage their learning journey. Educational technology allows for personalized learning experiences, offering students the opportunity to work at their own pace and revisit areas where they may need additional support. When students experience success in using technology to navigate challenges and meet goals, it can greatly boost their confidence.

FACTS offers various edtech solutions that support students, families, and educators in staying connected and organized, ultimately contributing to a more confident student body. One key tool is FACTS Student Information System (SIS), which provides a comprehensive platform for managing student data and academic progress. Within the SIS, the FACTS Family Portal enables students and parents to view grades, upcoming assignments, teacher feedback, and more. This transparency helps students feel more in control of their education, fostering independence and confidence as they see their efforts and progress reflected in real time.

The Role of Technology in Student-Teacher-Parent Communication

Clear and consistent communication is another cornerstone of building student confidence. When students and families feel informed and supported, it strengthens the partnership between home and school, ensuring that students receive the encouragement they need to thrive. The FACTS Family Custom App allows schools to provide timely updates, reports, and event reminders directly to families’ smartphones. This convenient, on-the-go access helps families stay connected and ensures that students are always aware of their progress, deadlines, and upcoming school activities. Being informed and engaged in their school life helps students feel more organized and confident in their responsibilities.

How Parents Can Help Build Confidence at Home

Parents play a pivotal role in nurturing their children’s confidence outside of school. Encouraging open communication, celebrating effort rather than just results, and fostering a positive attitude toward challenges can significantly impact a child’s self-esteem. By using tools like those offered by FACTS to stay informed about their child’s progress, parents can offer constructive feedback and recognize achievements at home, creating a strong foundation of support and confidence that complements their child’s school experience.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Confident Learners

National Youth Confidence Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering confidence in young people. By continuing to provide a supportive educational environment, personalized learning opportunities, and clear communication channels, schools can help students develop a strong sense of self-worth and the belief that they can achieve their goals. At FACTS, we are committed to helping schools, students, and families leverage technology to unlock the full potential of every learner and ensure that confidence is a key part of their educational experience.

Let’s celebrate this day by continuing to support and uplift our students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed, both in and out of the classroom.

The inaugural Elevate Guam conference took place September 5 and 6 at the Hyatt Regency Guam, bringing together 80 educators, school leaders, and sponsors from across the island. The conference aimed to foster innovation in K-12 education and provide vital training to schools in Guam, helping them maximize the benefits of FACTS technology and federal funding programs. The beachfront hotel served as the perfect backdrop for an event that was all about building bright futures.

FACTS has a long-standing relationship with Guam, largely thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Toves family. For 17 years, valued added resellers Jesse and Anna Toves introduced and promoted FACTS Student Information System (SIS) to private schools across the island, helping schools transform their administrative processes with new technology. Today, their daughter continues that legacy with JessieMarie Toves leading the charge in connecting schools with FACTS solutions. This conference was a testament to the Toves family’s commitment to advancing education in Guam.

As a U.S. territory, Guam private schools are eligible to receive $5 million in federal funding to provide services to students and teachers. Utilizing these funds responsibly to support student outcomes is a top priority for school leaders across the island, and FACTS Education Services has the expertise and services to support them with these goals.

Before the official start of the conference, FACTS international product manager Aubrey Humm and senior marketing manager Caitlin Miller, alongside JessieMarie, visited local schools that have embraced FACTS technology. Among these was Santa Barbara Catholic School, the first Catholic school on the island to adopt FACTS SIS. iLearn Academy Charter School, emphasizing on STEM and technology, and the admin team from the Office of Catholic Education for the Archdiocese of Agaña also made time for a FACTS visit.

“It was great connecting in person with the schools who use our services every day to create a better education experience. We often communicate behind computer screens, and while we’re efficient that way, it was an honor to shake hands and hear thoughts from the people regularly supporting students and families with our unique tools,” said Humm.

Day one of Elevate Guam was packed with enriching sessions, including a special track by Dr. Patrick Haggarty, President of FACTS Education Services. Known for his deep knowledge of federal funding programs, Dr. Haggarty provided Guam’s private school educators with essential insights into Title funds and how schools can take full advantage of the financial resources available to enhance student outcomes.

FACTS SIS Admin and Classroom training also took place on day one, along with introductions to FACTS Application & Enrollment and FACTS Family App. The afternoon saw a Modern Classroom Symposium led by Dr. Matthew Murphy, where he used the Design Thinking framework to help educators create more personalized and engaging learning environments for students. This session was widely praised for offering practical strategies that can immediately be applied in classrooms.

The second day began with a keynote panel that tied all the conference themes together. The panel included Dr. Haggarty from FACTS Education Services, Dr. Murphy, and Alex Urrea from Eduscape, alongside Dr. Juan Flores, former superintendent and current board member for a charter school in Guam. The panel addressed pressing issues such as the mental health crisis impacting both students and educators, the growing importance of AI in education, and the critical need for educational leadership that prioritizes student well-being.

Dr. Murphy highlighted the challenges educators face, especially the rising mental health crisis, by saying, “The mental health epidemic of young people is the most significant problem we’re facing as educators.” He emphasized that if students are not mentally well, it becomes difficult for them to engage in the classroom effectively.

Dr. Haggarty brought attention to the importance of elevating the value of education in the eyes of policymakers and said, “One of the biggest challenges is raising the importance of education to our elected leaders. Whether it’s public or private, K-12 is often the last funded area. The way to break the cycle of poverty is education, but we need to educate those in power to make better decisions about funding our schools and students.”

As the panel wrapped up, attendees were given powerful takeaways. Dr. Murphy encouraged educators to stay grounded in their purpose, reminding them, “If you can take just one nugget of wisdom back to the classroom, remember why you became a teacher in the first place. Don’t get overwhelmed. At the core, kids just need…you.”

Urrea inspired attendees to view themselves as more than just teachers by saying, “You’re not just educators. Shift your mindset to be inspirers. Prepare kids for life, not just college. Ask them what they want to solve, not what they want to be when they grow up.”

Dr. Haggarty’s final piece of advice was practical and impactful, saying, “There are opportunities out there, like coupons, from the government that can help fund our schools. We just need to put in a little work to collect those resources for the benefit of our kids, teachers, and families.”

Elevate Guam 2024 was an extraordinary event that provided Guam’s educators with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to elevate the education experience for students across the island. As FACTS continues to support schools in Guam, the future looks brighter than ever, and we look forward to visiting again for Elevate Guam 2026!

From our trusted partner, CampusGuard.

Higher education institutions are not the only targets of ransomware attacks within the education sector. K-12 schools are frequently targeted by ransomware attacks and data breaches aimed at exploiting student and staff data. Between 2022 and 2023, ransomware attacks on K-12 schools surged by 92%, according to Malwarebytes.

To address widespread vulnerabilities and safeguard your school against cyber threats, it’s essential to promote a cybersecurity-conscious community among students, staff, and parents.

We’ve outlined several strategies that can help advance the cybersecurity-minded culture of your school by implementing actionable steps:

Promote Security Awareness Training and Development

Provide Security Awareness training sessions that educate staff on cybersecurity best practices and ways to protect and reduce the risk to sensitive information. At least annually, training should be updated to reflect the latest in emerging risks, industry best practices, and current standards and regulations.

Offer workshops for teachers and administrators, as well as communications like newsletters, to keep them informed about the latest cybersecurity news, trends, and threats, including phishing, ransomware, malware, and social engineering. Provide workshops in different formats such as in-person sessions, webinars, and recorded videos to accommodate different schedules and preferences.

Develop Clear Policies and Procedures
Establish and enforce strong cybersecurity policies for staff to follow. Regularly review and update your cybersecurity policies to address new threats, technologies, and regulatory requirements. Involve cybersecurity experts and legal advisors to ensure that policies remain effective and compliant.

Create a clear protocol for reporting and responding to cybersecurity incidents. Provide clear instructions on how incidents should be reported and specify who employees should contact immediately upon discovering a cybersecurity incident, such as the IT department, a designated security team, or an incident response team.

Promote a Culture of Security
Encourage staff to model good cybersecurity behavior, such as utilizing strong passwords, using multi-factor authentication, keeping their operating systems and anti-virus software updated, and having the ability to recognize and report phishing emails.

Recognize and reward staff who consistently follow and promote cybersecurity practices. Issue top performers a certificate or reward them with a free lunch.

For Students

Integrate Cybersecurity into the Curriculum
Teach basic cybersecurity principles in existing computer science courses at different educational levels. Include topics such as encryption, secure coding practices, network security, and malware detection. Explore hands-on exercises where students practice implementing security measures, such as writing secure code, configuring firewalls, or identifying vulnerabilities.

Use real-world examples and case studies of cybersecurity incidents to illustrate concepts and demonstrate the importance of cybersecurity in everyday technology use.

Incorporate lessons on digital citizenship, online safety, and privacy into various subjects. Encourage critical thinking about online behavior and digital footprints. Demonstrate to students how to evaluate the credibility of online sources and recognize phishing attempts.

Interactive Learning Activities
Use gamified learning tools and cybersecurity simulations to make learning engaging. Develop educational games or use existing cybersecurity games that simulate real-world scenarios, which can reinforce concepts like threat detection, incident response, and secure coding practices in a fun and interactive way.

Organize cybersecurity competitions and hackathons to encourage hands-on learning. These competitions challenge students to solve cybersecurity challenges, including cryptography puzzles, network forensics, and web application security. Hackathons encourage student collaboration in developing innovative solutions to cybersecurity challenges or creating cybersecurity tools and applications, which promotes teamwork, creativity, and practical problem-solving skills. Check out the California Cybersecurity Institute’s past events for inspiration!

Create Student Cyber Clubs
Support the formation of cybersecurity clubs where students can learn and share knowledge. Provide resources and support for students interested in forming cybersecurity clubs at schools. Facilitate connections with cybersecurity professionals who can arrange networking events and introduce them to industry conferences or mentorship programs.

Encourage club activities such as workshops, guest speakers, and projects focused on cybersecurity. Organize workshops on various cybersecurity topics, such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, digital forensics, or secure software development. Guest speakers can share insights into current trends, career paths, and cutting-edge cybersecurity research.

For Parents

Host Educational Workshops and Seminars
Conduct regular workshops and webinars on cybersecurity topics relevant to parents, such as online privacy and data protection, safe social media usage, recognizing and preventing phishing scams, and parental controls and monitoring tools. Ensure that workshops are interactive, with Q&A sessions, demonstrations of cybersecurity tools, and practical tips that parents can implement immediately.

Provide resources and guides on how to discuss cybersecurity and online safety with their children. Create resource kits that include key cybersecurity concepts, tips for fostering open communication with children about their online activities, and recommended cybersecurity tools and apps for family use. If possible, develop an online portal where parents can access these resources, view recorded webinars, and find additional articles/videos on cybersecurity topics. Distribute printed guides and brochures during school events, parent-teacher conferences, and through school newsletters to ensure that all parents have access to these resources.

Parent-Teacher Collaboration
Encourage regular communication between parents and teachers about students’ online activities. Establish clear and consistent communication channels such as emails, newsletters, and parent-teacher meetings to discuss students’ online behavior and cybersecurity education. Create a feedback tool where parents can report concerns or observations about their children’s online activities to teachers through an online form or dedicated email address.

Share updates on school cybersecurity initiatives and how parents can support these efforts at home. Regularly publish updates about the school’s cybersecurity initiatives, upcoming events, and any changes in cybersecurity policies through school newsletters and bulletins. Provide parents with suggested activities and discussions they can have with their children at home to complement what is being taught in school.

Create a Parent Cybersecurity Committee
Form a committee of interested parents to discuss and promote cybersecurity awareness. Recruit interested parents through school communications and during parent-teacher meetings. Set clear goals and objectives for the committee, such as increasing cybersecurity awareness, organizing events, and supporting the school’s cybersecurity curriculum.

Involve the committee in planning cybersecurity-themed events, such as family cybersecurity nights, guest speaker sessions, or community cybersecurity fairs. Leverage the expertise and resources of committee members to develop educational materials, organize workshops, and spread awareness about cybersecurity practices.

By implementing these strategies, schools can build a stronger cybersecurity-focused community that actively participates in maintaining a safe and secure online environment.

CampusGuard can assist by reviewing your school’s security policy and procedures to ensure their effectiveness and offer recommendations to strengthen your security practices.

Ready to boost your school’s security posture? Contact [email protected].

It’s National Family Day, and spending time together can be the perfect chance to reinforce bonds with your student while supporting their educational experience at home. Keeping your whole family a part of the learning experience is one of the best ways to keep your student constantly engaged and elevating.

According to Youth.gov, students whose families are more involved in their education are less likely to drop out once in high school, are more likely to finish school on time, and have higher grades. Here are some of the ways you can keep your whole family engaged and continuously support your student through their educational journey.

Families can also make a difference at school by showing their support at school events, volunteer opportunities, and by keeping regular communication between parents and teachers or school staff.

Building a connection between your student’s school and home life is crucial to keep them on a constant path of growth and recognizing the importance of school in their everyday life. Family members can create a connection with the school, teachers, and other school staff by attending parent-teacher conferences, joining parent-led organizations, and volunteering for school events like dances or fundraisers. This can also establish parents as a stable and reliable source of support on the teacher’s end.

Taking the family on a new journey can open the door for unexpected or unique learning experiences. Learn more about a new place, check out local experiences or cuisine outside of the norm, and give your student access to learning beyond their everyday life.

Taking a journey into new territory doesn’t have to mean going far. Staycations are also an option. Visit a local park or check out a library in a new neighborhood. The goal is to get your family engaged with something new or unfamiliar to spark questions, imagination, and cravings for more information.

Maybe finding time to take the family out isn’t so easy. You can still create memorable and engaging experiences right at home for everyone to enjoy. Schedule movie nights, game nights, or other times to get together and create memories while learning and having fun.

Get creative with your time together and leverage it to introduce untraditional lessons your student can take with them back to school. On our blog, we show you even more ways you can keep your student engaged when they’re at home.

An important part of learning is having a safe space where students can feel confident, heard, and supported. This takes effective communication from every angle, starting at home. Talk to your student about what they’re learning, and work with them through their challenges to give them the confidence to keep looking for learning opportunities everywhere.

When your student learns how to communicate effectively and engage in conversation that leads down the learning path, they can use their new skills in the classroom to build relationships, communicate their needs, and get the most of their classroom learning.

Learning is not linear, and there is no one way for your student to get the most of their educational experience. From the home to the classroom, there are ways you can be a part of their educational journey and guide them toward even greater classroom success.

As we celebrate National Online Learning Day on September 15th, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of digital learning and the innovative solutions that are shaping the future of education. At FACTS, we are committed to supporting schools and educators with cutting-edge tools that enhance teaching and professional development experiences. Our Learning Management System (LMS) and Professional Development products are designed to meet the evolving needs of educators and adult learners alike.

Online learning has seen exponential growth in recent years, particularly in adult education and professional development. According to a report by Research and Markets, the global corporate e-learning market is expected to reach $764 billion by 2030. This trend highlights the increasing reliance on online platforms like FACTS LMS for delivering effective job training, talent development, and compliance training.

Additionally, studies show that 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their learning and development. This statistic underscores the importance of continuous professional development, which FACTS Professional Development programs are designed to support. By providing educators with the tools they need to grow and improve, schools and organizations can not only enhance job satisfaction but also improve overall educational outcomes.

The FACTS Learning Management System (LMS) is a comprehensive solution designed to streamline employee onboarding, talent development, and compliance tracking. Our LMS provides a robust platform for creating, delivering, and managing instructional content, ensuring that organizations can focus on delivering high-quality training and development programs.

Key Features of FACTS LMS:

• Interactive Content: Our LMS supports a variety of content formats, including videos, quizzes, and interactive assignments, making learning engaging and dynamic.
• Customization and Flexibility: Trainers can tailor courses to meet the unique needs of their learners, providing a personalized learning experience.
• Seamless Communication: The built-in communication tools facilitate real-time interaction between trainers and learners, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Performance Tracking: Advanced analytics and reporting features help trainers monitor learner progress and identify areas for improvement.

Professional development is crucial for educators to stay updated with the latest teaching strategies and technological advancements. FACTS offers a range of professional development services that empower educators to enhance their skills and improve educational outcomes.

Benefits of FACTS Professional Development:

• Expert-Led Training: Our professional development programs are led by experienced educators and industry experts who provide practical insights and actionable strategies.
• Flexible Learning Options: We offer both in-person and online training sessions, ensuring that educators can learn at their convenience.
• Comprehensive Resources: From workshops to webinars, our professional development offerings cover a wide range of topics, including classroom management, instructional technology, and curriculum development.
• Ongoing Support FACTS recommends continuous support to educators, helping them implement new strategies and technologies effectively in their classrooms.

As Dr. John Hattie, a prominent researcher in education, notes, “The biggest effects on student learning occur when teachers become learners of their own teaching.” Investing in professional development not only enhances teaching skills but also directly impacts student success.

As we celebrate National Online Learning Day, we acknowledge the remarkable progress made in the field of education technology. FACTS is proud to be at the forefront of this evolution, providing innovative solutions that empower educators and enhance learning experiences. Our Learning Management System and Professional Development products are designed to support schools and organizations in delivering high-quality education and training, regardless of the learning environment.

Join us in celebrating National Online Learning Day by exploring the possibilities of online education with FACTS. Together, we can continue to transform education and create a brighter future for all learners.

Learn more about FACTS Learning Management System and Professional Development services.

In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, keeping employees engaged and ensuring they retain essential training material is a significant challenge. Traditional learning methods, with their lengthy modules and extensive training sessions, often fail to meet the needs of modern professionals who juggle multiple tasks throughout their workday.

Enter microlearning—a game-changing approach that delivers bite-sized, easily digestible training modules tailored to the needs of busy professionals.

Microlearning is a training method that breaks down information into small, focused chunks, typically delivered in short lessons of 5-10 minutes. Unlike traditional training sessions that can be overwhelming and hard to retain, microlearning is easy to digest, understand, and apply immediately. This approach caters perfectly to the modern workforce, where time is at a premium and attention spans are stretched thin.

Research shows that people forget up to 70% of new information within 24 hours of a traditional training session. This phenomenon, known as the “forgetting curve,” highlights the inefficiency of long-form training in today’s workplace.

Employees are often unable to recall or apply what they’ve learned, leading to wasted time and resources. Microlearning addresses this issue by offering training in small bursts, which makes it easier for employees to retain and apply new information in real time

1. Easier to Produce

   Microlearning modules are quicker to create and update compared to traditional training programs. This flexibility allows businesses to respond rapidly to changing industry trends or company needs.

2. Fits Into the Workday

   Employees can complete microlearning sessions during short breaks, eliminating the need for them to step away from their tasks for extended periods. This integration into the flow of work ensures continuous learning without disrupting productivity.

3. Keeps Pace With Emerging Trends

   With the rapid pace of technological advancements and industry changes, businesses need to update training content frequently. Microlearning allows for faster content updates, ensuring that employees are always equipped with the latest knowledge.

4. Boosts Employee Retention and Engagement

   Microlearning’s interactive, bite-sized approach keeps employees engaged and invested in their development, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention. Studies, such as one from the Journal of Applied Psychology, show that microlearning can improve job performance by 17% compared to traditional training methods.

5. Solves Specific Problems Quickly

   Microlearning can be tailored to address specific skills or compliance requirements. This targeted approach ensures that employees receive the exact training they need, when they need it, resulting in more effective outcomes.

An LMS is an invaluable tool for implementing microlearning in the workplace, allowing businesses to develop smaller, more focused courses that employees can access anytime, anywhere.

FACTS Learning Management System is specifically designed to support microlearning by offering a range of corporate learning solutions tailored to the needs of modern businesses. FACTS Learning Courses, delivered through the LMS, allow organizations to choose from off-the-shelf content or create custom-designed modules that align with their unique requirements.

By leveraging FACTS LMS and FACTS Learning Courses, companies can seamlessly integrate microlearning into their training strategy, empowering their workforce with the flexibility and adaptability they need to succeed.

Microlearning is not just a trend—it’s a necessity for businesses aiming to keep their workforce engaged, informed, and adaptable. By delivering training in manageable, bite-sized pieces, companies can ensure that their employees retain the information they need to excel in their roles, all while fitting learning into the natural flow of their workday. The result? A more confident, productive, and satisfied workforce that’s ready to tackle any challenge.

Learn more about how microlearning with FACTS LMS can transform your organization’s training strategy.