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Early Learning Extravaganza: People, Projects and Puppets.

2025 was a truly special year for Sprig Learning. Not only because of the continued work in developing personalized and culturally relevant early learning resources and assessments, or the growing satisfaction among teachers and administrators, but also because of the many exciting developments that unfolded throughout the year.

As with any year-end reflection, it’s difficult to capture everything in a single post.

Instead, this blog highlights a few standout moments that made 2025 especially memorable.

 

Apple Webinars: Rethinking Assessment

Apple Webinars: Rethinking Assessment

In February of this year, the Apple Sprig Learning Innovative Assessment Practices webinar series brought together educators and thought leaders to explore new approaches to early learning assessment. The year before, Sprig Learning apps were recognized as a part of Apple’s Education Partner Program.

The first session featured Sprig Learning and Ascend Smarter Intervention, discussing the capabilities of Sprig Reading as a game-changing progress monitoring tool that supports evidence-based instruction.

The second webinar, hosted with Dr. Lisa Lunney Borden, explored how a play-based assessment approach can support the development of critical early math skills. It was a chance to highlight the full potential of Sprig Explorers, the game-based early learning assessment tool. 

 

Elsapet Makes a Grand Debut on World Autism Day

Elsapet Makes Her Grand Debut

Sprig Learning’s beloved cast of characters, the Moose, Bear, Fox, and Beaver, has long brought joy and storytelling into classrooms. 

Each has their own names, characteristics and early learning materials that are associated with them.  

In April, the family grew with the introduction of Elsapet the Raccoon. Also known as Elsapetji’j (Little Elsapet), this new character was created in partnership with Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey. 

Elsapet is an advocate for every voice, especially those who communicate beyond words, and represents an important step forward in inclusive, culturally grounded learning experiences.

 

Meaningful Collaborations Across Early Literacy Roles

Meaningful Collaborations Across Early Literacy Roles

From May onward, Sprig Learning collaborated with a wide range of early literacy professionals, highlighting the importance of every role that supports young learners.

Instagram collaborations featured reading tutors such as Amy McElhatton,The Phonics Fairy, special education teachers like Miss Rae, as well as speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists working in schools. 

These shared messages reinforced the idea that early literacy success depends on collaboration, and that Sprig Learning’s solutions are designed to support multiple educators working together to meet the unique needs of every child.

 

Guyana Visits: Expanding Global Ties

Guyana Ties: Expanding Global Ties

Beginning in October, Sprig Learning participated in a series of visits to Guyana, first as part of a trade delegation focused on innovations in multiple sectors, including education, and later in meetings with the ministry to discuss the advancement of culturally responsive early literacy.

Being considered a partner in bringing meaningful and relevant learning solutions to the Americas was a powerful milestone. From North America to Central and South America, every child deserves a fair shot at success, made possible through shared vision from everyone concerned.

 

Exploring Innovation at Canadian EdTech AI Summit

Exploring Innovation at Canadian EdTech AI Summit

At the very end of October, Sprig Learning presented in two panels at the Canadian EdTech AI Summit. These sessions created space for rich exchanges around the current state and future of education technology, including the growing role of artificial intelligence and what it could mean for early literacy. 

The conversations reflected both excitement and thoughtful consideration of what’s next for educators and learners alike. Some of Sprig’s major takeaways from the event are shared here.

 

Highly Anticipated Sprig Reading 4.0 Release

SR 4.0 Press Release

November marked the release of Sprig Reading 4.0, introducing a suite of powerful new features. Marquee features included alignment with evidence-based curriculum frameworks such as UFLI, along with the ability to capture student progress through photos and videos. 

These enhancements further strengthened Sprig Reading as a modern, flexible progress monitoring tool designed to support real classroom needs. Read the full press release.

 

Looking Ahead

Taken together, these moments reflect a year defined by creativity, collaboration, and growth. 

From new characters and global friendships to innovative technology and meaningful dialogue, 2025 reinforced a shared commitment to early learning that is inclusive, responsive, and forward-looking. 

As the journey continues, the focus remains on empowering educators, celebrating diverse voices, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Sprig Reading 4.0 Empowers Educators with Consistent Reading Data to Drive Measurable Literacy Growth

Educators align to any curricular or learning standard to ensure every student masters the foundational skills needed for reading proficiently.  

 

Ottawa, Ontario, November 13, 2025 — Sprig Learning announces the launch of Sprig Reading 4.0, the next evolution of its evidence-based digital platform for monitoring reading progress and outcomes. Built in direct response to educators’ need for a unified and consistent approach to literacy data, Sprig Reading helps schools align multiple reading curriculums, track weekly progress, and ensure every student is on track to read proficiently by Grade 3.

 

Solving a Growing Challenge in Literacy Instruction

Today’s educators face an increasingly complex literacy landscape, multiple reading curriculums and assessments, a diverse classroom of learners, and fragmented data systems that make it difficult to get a clear picture of student growth. Sprig Reading brings it all together, offering a common data platform that connects the dots between instruction, assessment, and outcomes.

“Educators today are managing more reading programs, assessments, and data sources than ever before,” said Jarrett Laughlin, CEO and Founder at Sprig Learning. “Sprig Reading simplifies that reality by aligning with what teachers already use in their classrooms and giving them one clear, consistent picture of every child’s reading progress.”

 

Driving Better Reading Outcomes with Consistent, Actionable Data

The new version of Sprig Reading introduces enhanced roll-up reporting, expanded curricular alignment, and innovative data visualization tools that make weekly progress monitoring simple and sustainable. By empowering teachers to identify gaps early and act quickly, Sprig Reading helps ensure that every learner builds the foundational reading skills needed for lifelong literacy success.

“Sprig Reading 4.0 aligns seamlessly with major literacy frameworks, such as UFLI and local Provincial and/or State standards,” added Mark Quattrocchi, Education Success Lead  at Sprig Learning. Further adding, “This alignment means educators spend less time reconciling data and more time translating that data into actionable recommendations that guide teaching and planning.”

 

Key Enhancements in Sprig Reading 4.0

 

Comprehensive Curricular Alignment

Easily map 200+ foundational literacy skills and high-frequency words to any curriculum or Provincial/State standard. Teachers can track progress consistently across classrooms, while administrators gain comprehensive insights into system-wide literacy trends.

Granular Roll-up Reporting

Powerful dashboards provide educators and administrators with school, district, and classroom-level visibility, supporting data-informed decisions and transparent literacy progress tracking.

UFLI Module Alignment

Sprig Reading’s curricular alignment module is now designed to align with UFLI’s scope and sequence so teachers can track reading progress lesson-by-lesson.

iOS Multimedia Capture & In-App Learning

Teachers can capture real-time reading observations (photos and video) via iPad, access “just-in-time” instructional videos, and engage in ongoing professional learning directly within the app.

Sprig Reading Enhancements

 

A Partner in Building Confident Readers

With Sprig Reading, schools gain more than just a reading tool, they gain a partner in measurable literacy success. The platform’s evidence-based design, real-time data insights, and cross-curricular flexibility provide educators with the clarity and confidence to guide every child toward reading mastery. 

Experience Sprig  Reading 4.0 with a free trial. Start today.

 

 

About Sprig Learning

Sprig Learning

Sprig Learning is an education company dedicated to ensuring that every child learns to read by Grade 3. Sprig Learning designs purpose-built and evidence-based solutions and resources that help educators, families and communities create strong early learning foundations for children.

 

Media Contact

For interview requests, press materials, or additional information, please contact: [email protected]

Sprig Learning to Exhibit at OCTE’s 25th Anniversary Spring Technological Education Conference

Ottawa, ON –  Sprig Learning is proud to announce its participation as an exhibitor at the 25th Anniversary Spring Technological Education Conference, hosted by the Ontario Council for Technology Education (OCTE) from May 8–10, 2025, at the Delta Ottawa.

Bringing together over 500 educators, guidance counselors, board leads, administrators, community organizations, and industry partners, OCTE’s landmark conference is a hub for innovation, collaboration, and professional learning in the field of technological education.

Sprig Learning will be featuring Sprig Reading, its powerful, digital progress monitoring tool that helps educators track and support foundational reading skills for all students. Designed to align with evidence-based early literacy practices, Sprig Reading harnesses the power of purposeful technology to meet the real needs of today’s classrooms.

“Sprig Learning was founded on the belief that technology should make teaching easier, more personalized, and more impactful,” said Jarrett Laughlin, CEO of Sprig Learning. “At events like OCTE, we get to connect with educators, administrators, and system leaders who value innovation and care deeply about preparing students for success, starting with a strong foundation in literacy.”

Built by educators, for educators, Sprig Learning’s tools are designed with the realities of today’s schools and communities in mind. Whether you’re a classroom teacher seeking meaningful data, a school division lead looking for scalable solutions, or a guidance counselor supporting diverse student pathways, Sprig Reading offers insights that can inform daily instruction and long-term planning alike.

Visit Sprig Learning’s booth at the conference to learn how technology, when built with a purpose, can transform early literacy education, and help teachers build stronger foundations for themselves and their students. 

As a bonus, attendees can enter a draw to win engaging early literacy resources.

Early Literacy Resources

Sprig Learning is a purpose-built education technology company that develops evidence-based, holistic, personalized, and culturally relevant early learning assessments and resources. Its innovative and equitable solutions are designed to help educators assess, teach and support every early learner.

Media Contact

Rahat Haque
[email protected]
www.spriglearning.com

Elsapet the Puppet Makes Her Grand Debut– Spreading Language, Love & Autism Acceptance

 A Joint Partnership Between Sprig Learning & Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey Brings a New Voice to the Conversation on Inclusion

 

A new voice is joining the conversation on language, culture, and inclusion! Elsapet, a lovable puppet with a heart for connection, makes her official debut on April 2, World Autism Day.

Elsapet, also known as Elsapetji’j (little Elsapet), Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey’s latest character, created in partnership with Sprig Learning, is an advocate for every voice, especially those who communicate beyond words. She loves to help her Elders prepare feasts and make presents! Designed to make language fun, inclusive, and accessible, Elsapet encourages children to explore communication in all its forms.

 

“The wait is over! Please help us welcome Elsapet into our family of beloved Mi’kmaw characters, created to enhance the learning experience for our children and families. With her unique story and personality, Elsapet is here to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.”
– Blaire Gould, Executive Director of Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey

 

“Elsapet embodies the spirit of inclusion and the beauty of diverse communication. She represents the many ways our communities express love, culture, and connection—whether through spoken words, gestures, or shared traditions.”
– Jarrett Laughlin, CEO of Sprig Learning

 

Elsapet

 

 Why Elsapet?

Studies show that 1 in 50 children in Canada, are on the autism spectrum, and many face unique communication challenges. Language isn’t just about words, it’s about connection, understanding, and expression. Elsapet reminds us that every way of communicating is valuable, from a shared look to a small act of kindness, from gestures to art, music, and movement.

 

A Symbol of Inclusion

 

 

A Symbol of Inclusion

 

Elsapet’s launch embraces the infinity heart, representing limitless love and neurodiversity. Her debut invites people of all backgrounds to engage in a joyful, interactive experience about connection and understanding.

 

“Helping to bring Elsapetji’j to life was an absolute delight. I hope she can teach children everywhere to recognize all the wonderful ways in which we communicate with each other, and the joy that comes from feeling like you’ve been seen and heard.”

– Chris Hough, Graphic Designer

 

An Invitation to Join the Conversation

On launch day, Elsapet asks a simple yet profound question “What’s your favourite way to say I love you without words?” Whether it’s a kind gesture, a shared moment, or a creative expression, the world is invited to share and celebrate communication in all its forms.

Follow Elsapet’s journey on Instagram, X and LinkedIn using #ElsapetSpeaksLove. 

Want to know more about Elsapet?

Sprig Learning Launches Sprig Reading 3.0 to Address Low Early Learner Literacy Rates

Sprig Reading addresses the growing literacy gap in early learners by providing teachers and schools with an advanced, customizable and one-of-a-kind monitoring of students’ reading abilities.

Ottawa, ONT – Sprig Learning is launching Sprig Reading 3.0 to take on low literacy rates among early learners across North America. In the United States, nearly 2 of 3 grade 4 students are not reading at-grade level, while in Canada, approximately 1 of 4 grade 3 students fall short of reading proficiency benchmarks. The persistently low reading proficiency rates disproportionately affect underserved communities and families, where systemic barriers exacerbate the reading struggle among certain segments of the population.

Experts consistently emphasize the ability to read proficiently by Grade 3 as the greatest predictor for future success. This achievement marks the shift from “learning to read” to “reading to learn”, which is a transition crucial for both academic and life outcomes. Studies show that non-proficient readers in Grade 3 are four times more likely to not graduate from high school!

Children need help early, as 34% of children entering kindergarten lack the basic language skills they need to learn to read. But if such help is not received and sustained by Grade 3, it may be too late! This is a growing challenge for parents and teachers, all of whom are struggling to help young learners catch up in their reading abilities. Teachers in particular have long sought intuitive, effective approaches to implement evidence-based early literacy practices that provide measurable results for their students.

Sprig Reading is tackling this alarming trend in early literacy head on by going beyond point-in-time assessments to dynamically monitor each child’s unique reading journey. Sprig Reading is a transformative tool designed to help educators track reading progress for all students, across all foundational reading skills. 

How Sprig Reading is Monitoring Reading Progress Differently

Unlike traditional progress monitoring methods, which are often time-consuming and costly, Sprig Reading is designed to fit seamlessly into a teacher’s daily routine:

  • Easy and Intuitive: Teachers can get started with Sprig Reading in under 10 minutes. Its simple, intuitive interface makes it an everyday tool, freeing up time for instructional planning.
  • All Foundational Reading Skills for All Students: Sprig Reading monitors over 200 foundational reading skills, ensuring every student is making progress in all necessary areas of reading development, regardless of their starting point.
  • Consistent Data-Driven Insights for All Tiers: Educators can frequently track progress for every student, creating daily and weekly data points to drive personalized instruction and timely interventions across all tiers in a Multi-Tiered System of Supports Framework.
  • Supports Existing Programs: Built to enhance research-based reading curricula and resources, Sprig Reading enriches and supplements tools that currently exist in classrooms. 

“Progress monitoring has always been focused on a small subset of students who need intervention,” said Mark Quattrocchi, Educational Success Lead at Sprig Learning and former teacher. “Sprig Reading shifts that paradigm, giving teachers the ability to monitor all students, every day, across all reading skills.”

“Families, teachers, schools and students themselves are struggling with the alarming issue of low literacy rates, especially for our most marginalized young learners,” said Jarrett Laughlin, CEO of Sprig Learning. “Reading is the key that unlocks the door to a child’s imagination, curiosity, and lifelong learning. Sprig Reading supports young learners to build the foundation upon which their educational journey and future successes are built, nurturing a love for discovery that lasts a lifetime.”

Sprig Reading 3.0 launches today in North America, and can be accessed here. Teachers with more questions can contact Sprig Learning here. Sprig Learning invites educators, administrators, and literacy specialists to join the Sprig Reading movement of monitoring progress differently. By rethinking the way progress is monitored, Sprig Reading ensures that every child has the opportunity to reach their full reading potential.

About Sprig Learning

Sprig Learning

Sprig Learning is a purpose-built education technology company that develops evidence-based, holistic, personalized, and culturally relevant early learning assessments and resources. Its innovative and equitable solutions are designed to help educators assess, teach and support every early learner.

Media Contact

Rahat Haque
Marketing Manager
[email protected]

www.spriglearning.com

Sprig Learning Apps are a Part of Apple’s Education Partner Program

Sprig Learning, a leading developer of evidence-based early learning resources and assessments is happy to announce its inclusion in Apple’s prestigious Education Partner Program.

The Sprig team was recently invited to Apple Playground at the Reading for the Love of It 2024. It was an opportunity for all participants to explore the innovative possibilities of Apple technology in education.

The event buzzed with energy as educators from diverse backgrounds engaged with Apple’s cutting-edge technology, particularly iPad, exploring its potential to enhance learning experiences for K-6 students. It was thrilling to witness firsthand how teachers are leveraging iPad capabilities to craft dynamic content and design immersive learning journeys.

Jarrett Laughlin, CEO of Sprig Learning says, “As a part of the Education Partner Program, we are committed to empowering educators and communities worldwide. Together with Apple, we strive to level the playing field for every child, fostering success through engaging and evidence-based educational experiences.”

With schools globally harnessing Apple technology to revolutionize learning, Sprig Learning is honoured to contribute to this transformative journey. 

The partnership underscores a shared dedication to equipping educators with tools that drive student success and promote inclusive learning environments.

 

What is the Education Partner Program (K-12)?

What is the Education Partner Program (K-12)?

Apple’s dedication to education shines through its motto, “Inspiring Every Kind of Mind,” prominently featured on its dedicated education page

This ethos, shared jointly by Sprig Learning, emphasizes the belief that each individual possesses unique learning styles and creative expressions. 

By leveraging Apple technology and resources, educators and students of all backgrounds are empowered to explore, create, and chart their paths to success.

Apple’s Education Partner Program showcases apps compatible with Apple’s tablets, laptops, and smartphones. 

In the classroom, the journey towards a better world begins with versatile, user-friendly tools prioritizing privacy, accessibility, and sustainability. Apple’s products and resources are meticulously crafted to foster personalized, creative, and inspiring learning experiences.

 

Collections of Apps In Apple’s Education Partner Program

There are two collections of apps in Apple’s Education Partner Program, the K-12 collection and the Higher Education collection. 

The categories in its K-12 collection are Accessibility, Foundational Literacies, Educator Capacity and Assessment, Workflow, College and Career Readiness, Coding for Early Learners and Social and Emotional Learning.

 

Categories Featuring Sprig Apps

Categories Featuring Sprig Apps

Sprig Language and Sprig Math are featured in the Foundational Literacies category. 

Sprig Math is additionally featured in the Educator Capacity and Assessment category. 

This recognition highlights Sprig Learning’s dedication to enhancing foundational literacy skills in both language and math, while empowering educators with robust assessment capabilities.

 

The Intuitiveness of Using Sprig Apps on Apple Products

The Intuitiveness of Using Sprig Apps on Apple Products

The iPad is very versatile. Its lightweight design and long-lasting battery life ensure uninterrupted connectivity throughout the day, empowering teachers to instruct, assess, and collaborate wherever they go. 

Meanwhile, Mac’s intuitive interface simplifies navigation and empowers educators to manage their classrooms with confidence and ease. 

With robust security measures in place, both devices prioritize the protection of student data, ensuring a safe and secure learning experience at every turn. 

 

What This Means for Sprig Learning

Sprig LanguageSprig MathSprig Library

Sprig Learning celebrates its inclusion in Apple’s Education Partner K-12 program. As classrooms embrace technology like never before, the synergy between hardware and software empowers educators to enhance instruction and assessment for early literacy effectively. 

Sprig Reading is being developed as an iOS app for Fall 2024, joining Sprig Language, Sprig Math, and other apps that are a part of the app store. The aspiration is for all our apps to become part of the Education Partner Program.

This ensures visibility and accessibility for teachers seeking evidence-based early literacy solutions that seamlessly integrate with Apple devices, fostering efficient and secure learning environments for all students.