Scottsdale, AZ. Jul. 26, 2005 --Pearson Digital Learning, the leading provider of standards-based digital curriculum solutions for preK-12 education, has named Janet Van Dam, Ed.D. as its new director of instructional services. A long time board member and past president of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), recognized speaker, and former district administrator, Van Dam brings to Pearson Digital Learning more than 30 years of experience in the educational field.

As director of instructional services for PDL, Van Dam will oversee the company’s extensive organization of education consultants, curriculum specialists, and field trainers who help ensure successful implementations.

"With all the pressures they face, schools need to know that the education technology solution they select is backed by an organization that truly understands their needs and knows how to customize its solution to meet those needs," said Peggy Kinder, vice president of education. "It’s no coincidence, then, that our implementations group includes curriculum and technology specialists, as well as a large percentage of former educators and administrators. With her experience as a teacher, administrator, and consultant to numero School and industry groups, Jan is exceptionally well-qualified to lead this team."

Recognized throughout the industry as an advocate and visionary, Van Dam has conducted more than 100 conference presentations, workshops and keynote speeches at state, national and international events. Prior to joining PDL she served as assistant superintendent for learning technologies, technology services and career-focused education for Oakland Schools, one of 57 intermediate school districts in Michigan, serving some 28 local school districts and 225,000 students, combined. Prior to that, Van Dam worked as a classroom educator and district administrator for more than 15 years in the Metro Detroit area.

Van Dam received a doctorate degree in education administration from Wayne State University in Detroit. She likewise holds a master’s of education degree in curriculum, instruction and leadership from Oakland University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and speech, also from Wayne State University.

About Pearson Digital Learning
Working side by side with educators for over 40 years, Pearson Digital Learning is the leader in proven, comprehensive technologies for preK-12 education. Our mission is to provide innovative, research-based digital learning solutions that elevate the art and science of teaching, and inspire children to reach their greatest potential. Reaching more than 20 million students annually, our products include: the SuccessMaker® Enterprise and NovaNET® educational courseware; and the KnowledgeBox® digital learning system. Pearson Digital Learning is also the exclusive distributor for the Waterford Early Reading Program^TM and Waterford Early Math & Science^TM, adaptive computer-based instruction developed by the Waterford Institute.
Pearson Digital Learning is part of Pearson Education the world’s leading integrated education company, which in turn is part of Pearson (NYSE: PSO) the international media company. More information can be found at: www.PearsonDigital.com

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Leslie Eicher
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Leslie@EicherCommunications.com