eChalk Announces Version 4.0
Leading Provider of Online Communications Platform for K-12 Schools and Districts Enhances System
Seattle, WA (June 30, 2003) - eChalk, the leading Web-based communication provider for K-12 public, private, and parochial schools and school districts, announced today at the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC) that it will be launching Version 4.0 of the eChalk system this July. The latest version will include numerous new features, an enhanced user interface, more powerful email and new SIS integration tools.
Version 4.0's email system will enable users to see their eChalk email as well as any other POP3 email they have all in one place. The new version comes complete with upgraded Spam filtering and a personalized spell check dictionary. In addition, this release includes district-wide options that make it easier for a district to set both security and publishing preferences for all of the schools within the district. Other features available in 4.0 are Hall Pass™ which allows for single sign-on abilities to third party Web content on a class or school level; WYSIWYG tools for enhanced Web publishing; a district-wide survey tool; and eChalk Sync™ which will accept user updates from a school's or district's SIS system.
"Version 4.0 incorporates the features that we have learned to be critical to the success of K-12 schools. It also sets the foundation for new features and tools that will be added in upcoming releases," said Charlene Noll, Head of Product Development at eChalk.
eChalk is the only company serving the K-12 market that utilizes an in-depth research process usually reserved for high-end corporate software companies. By taking this process to K-12 schools, eChalk has been able to deliver a service that meets the many unique needs of K-12 schools and districts. "I was amazed how many schools were being sold corporate solutions and even pure vapor-ware that do not fit their needs and then struggled with training, tremendous ongoing costs and a system that did not integrate with other initiatives. eChalk's solution changes all of that," said Noll.
Version 4.0 is matched with new Professional Development and Training programs such as eChalk's Leadership Team Facilitation, Curriculum Integration Workshops and Parent Training. The combination of the online service coupled with eChalk's Implementation, ongoing support and professional development has lead to successes for all of eChalk's clients. Version 4.0 affords the very best of services for a single school or an entire state.
About eChalk
eChalk is the leading provider of customized, Web-based communication networks for K-12 schools and districts. eChalk offers schools and districts their own secure, affordable, easy to use and entirely advertising-free platform to enhance the educational process through effective use of the Internet. As an Application Service Provider (ASP), eChalk leverages schools' existing technology infrastructure, providing a premium yet affordable solution that facilitates interaction within the school, between schools, and within the larger educational community. eChalk works on any computer that has a connection to the Internet and a browser of 4.0 or higher. To learn more, visit www.eChalk.com or contact eChalk at 212-809-8400 or info@eChalk.com.
