Pearson and Florida Virtual School Announce Partnership

New Enterprise to Accelerate Reach of Online Learning Opportunities

Orlando, FL – Nov. 12, 2010. : A private/public partnership between Pearson and Florida Virtual School (FLVS) will accelerate virtual learning opportunities around the world for millions of school students who have grown up smack in the middle of the technology revolution.

Announced in conjunction with the opening of the annual Virtual School Symposium in Glendale, Arizona this weekend, the new Pearson Virtual School will offer schools throughout the U.S. and across the globe more than 100 FLVS courses in all subject areas for grades 6-12, including advanced placement and career and technology courses. The Pearson Virtual School courses will be aligned to the new Common Core state standards.

Pearson CEO for Schools Peter Cohen said, “Our partnership with Florida Virtual School is one more step in recognizing the cosmic effect of technology in revolutionizing education. Digital learning allows teachers to customize education for each individual student.: Through this partnership, we will expand Pearson’s existing virtual offerings and move forward with our commitment to transform education through technology and set each child on the path to success in school and in life.”

FLVS CEO Julie Young said, “The opportunity to partner with Pearson is a monumental step forward in accomplishing our long-standing goals and mission at FLVS – to provide every child an engaging, personal, and unique learning experience.” Young noted that FLVS will retain its existing operation as a Florida public school.

Impressive data from an independent research study confirms that students learning through the Florida Virtual School dramatically increased their performance, including an 85-90 percent completion rate of courses with passing grades, and improved scores on state tests. These results have proven to be a cost-effective model for delivering instruction.

Cohen said the partnership will make it possible for schools to provide a variety of new or advanced courses that they might otherwise not have the resources to offer.: Pearson Virtual School will allow educators to customize offerings for students’ individual interests and abilities. These courses provide online learning opportunities for students who live in rural areas, who are homebound, or who need an online summer school option. The online school is also a valuable resource for home schoolers.

The Virtual School partnership provides the opportunity to reverse the school dropout rate by providing learning recovery credits for students who have to make up coursework in order to graduate.: These courses are available at any time of the year and provide students with pre-tests, discussion-based assessments and post-tests.

In addition to full course availability, schools have the option to purchase courses for their own teachers to use or modify, and the courses will integrate with their existing learning management systems. Comprehensive services in customized teacher professional development, student management and systems integration services are available through the Pearson Virtual School.

For more information, visit www.pearsonschool.com/virtuallearning.

About Pearson

As the world’s leading education company and leader in learning, content, technology, assessment and education services, Pearson is committed to improving the lives of people everywhere. : We do this by providing support to build a stronger education system and offer personalized opportunities for students of all ages to learn at their own pace, in their own way. Our success is founded in partnering with education stakeholders to deliver innovative products, technologies and services that respond to challenges to education and help improve student achievement. Pearson is making unprecedented levels of investment in new models for education and supporting key elements of the reform agenda: : Common Core standards, college and career readiness, teacher effectiveness, school improvement, and custom solutions for schools and colleges. : Visit www.pearson.com.

About Florida Virtual School (FLVS)

Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is an established leader in developing and providing virtual K-12 education solutions to students all over Florida, the US and the world. A nationally recognized eLearning model and recipient of numerous awards, FLVS was founded in 1997 and was the country’s first, state-wide internet based public high school. Today, FLVS serves full-time and part-time students in grades K-12 and provides a variety of custom solutions for schools and districts to meet student needs. FLVS aims to deliver a high quality, technology-based education that provides the skills and knowledge students need for success in the 21st Century. Its vision is to transform education and create possibilities for learners worldwide. : For more information, go to www.flvs.net.