TeachersFirst Upgrade Enhances Content and User Benefits

The Source for Learning Releases Next-Generation Education Site

RESTON, Va., June 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Source for Learning, Inc. (SFL; SourceforLearning.org) has released a major upgrade to TeachersFirst.com, its free web site for K-12 teachers. TeachersFirst users live in more than 100 countries; they access the site more than two million times each month.

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TeachersFirst 3.0 introduces an improved user interface, new features for teachers who are members, quick access to the most popular features, and easy-to-use collaboration tools that allow teachers to share and learn from one other.

Candace Hackett Shively, SFL's Director of K-12 Initiatives, said, "For more than thirteen years, TeachersFirst has given teachers reliable access to electronic resources that make a difference in teaching and learning. TeachersFirst 3.0 builds on our success with new features that help our users find the best ideas and resources more easily. We've also worked hard—and successfully—to keep TeachersFirst free. That's important, given the kinds of budget cutbacks schools are dealing with."

In addition to its growing collection of nearly 13,000 resource reviews, TeachersFirst 3.0 offers improved search and tagging features, reformatted resource listings including the newest web tools, faster response times, and an extensive library of original content for all grades. TeachersFirst's OK2Ask™ professional development series offers real-time, interactive collaboration sessions on the effective use of technology as a tool for learning.

TeachersFirst.com is available without charge; membership is also free. Members gain enhanced access to the site's resources and easily share comments and tips with their colleagues. New features available midsummer will allow members to customize their interface with the TeachersFirst site and create their own teacher web pages. 

Steven J. Gorski, The Source for Learning's President and CEO, noted, "When we started TeachersFirst in 1998, most teachers were unfamiliar with the Internet. SFL committed to helping them learn how to use technology for effective teaching. The release of TeachersFirst 3.0 reinforces our commitment to give teachers a free overview of the best content and practices. It's a part of our mission that we take very seriously."

TeachersFirst.com is a service of The Source for Learning (SourceForLearning.org), a not-for-profit corporation providing enhanced learning through technology. SFL is a member of ISTE 100, a group of corporations and associations that are key supporters of the International Society for Technology in Education. On June 26 and 29, TeachersFirst's Candace Hackett Shively will make three presentations at the ISTE annual conference.

In addition to TeachersFirst.com, SFL is the creator of PreschoolFirst.com, TeachersAndFamilies.com, GrowUpLearning.com, and SFLMedia.com, a new service that provides educational video clips with links to related resources from TeachersFirst.

SOURCE The Source for Learning