Teachley

Founded in 2012 by Dana Pagar, Rachael Labrecque, and Kara Carpenter, Teachley emerged from their shared experiences as teachers and their doctoral research in cognition and learning at Columbia University's Teachers College. The founders identified a critical gap between educational research and classroom practice, which motivated them to create a platform that integrates findings from learning sciences directly into mathematics instruction. Pagar's background includes a Ph.D. in Cognitive Studies in Education and experience as a first-grade teacher, while Labrecque also holds a Ph.D. from Columbia and was a special education teacher. Carpenter brings a similar blend of academic rigor and practical classroom experience to the founding team.

Teachley operates within the educational technology (EdTech) market, specifically targeting K-5 schools and school districts across the United States. The company's business model is primarily B2B, selling subscriptions to its suite of digital tools and curricula. These tools are designed to supplement existing math programs by focusing on conceptual understanding, fluency, and problem-solving skills. The platform offers a variety of content formats, including engaging math games, instructional videos, and digital books, all aligned with educational standards. A key feature is the formative assessment data provided to educators, which offers insights into student performance, allowing for targeted interventions and personalized learning paths.

The development of Teachley's products has been substantially supported by grants from prominent institutions such as the U.S. Department of Education, the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding has enabled rigorous research and validation of their approach, with studies demonstrating significant improvements in student math outcomes. The platform's 'Stretchy Monkey' program, for instance, is one of their research-backed games designed to build foundational number sense. By translating cognitive science principles into practical, engaging digital tools, Teachley aims to equip teachers with the resources needed to enhance math instruction and student achievement.

Keywords: EdTech, mathematics education, K-5 learning, cognitive science, student assessment, digital curriculum, professional development, learning games, educational tools, personalized learning