What recent technology award did Second Step® K–8 digital programs receive?
Second Step K–8 digital programs were recently named a winner of the Tech & Learning Awards of Excellence: Best of 2025, the programs’ most significant edtech recognition to date. This prestigious honor celebrates products that deliver exceptional innovation, measurable impact, and strong educator support throughout the entire year. The win builds on the programs’ earlier recognition by the Tech & Learning Awards of Excellence: Back to School 2025 award. Together, these two monumental achievements reinforce the continued leadership of Second Step programs in delivering high‑quality, evidence‑based human skills education.
Why is the Best of 2025 award especially significant for districts evaluating human skills programs?
The Best of 2025 award recognizes edtech products that demonstrate exceptional innovation, educator support, and student impact throughout the entire year. For districts exploring new solutions or evaluating renewals, this award serves as a trusted, third‑party validation that Second Step programs are both effective and aligned with the needs of modern classrooms.
How does this award position Second Step® programming as a leader in edtech?
This recognition reinforces the positioning of the Second Step programs as a leader in evidence‑based human skills education. The programs’ digital innovation, ease of implementation, and strong research foundation make them an attractive solution for districts seeking scalable programs that support teaching, learning, and schoolwide climate improvement.
What features helped Second Step® programs stand out to Tech & Learning’s panel of experts?
Tech & Learning’s judges highlighted several strengths in the Second Step digital experience, including:
- A comprehensive Leader Dashboard offering real‑time usage and implementation insights
- Detailed progress reporting across classrooms, schools, and districts
- Embedded, in‑platform educator supports that reinforce high‑quality implementation
- Interactive and engaging digital lessons that support student skill development
- Flexible design that supports MTSS, PBIS, and trauma‑informed practices
How do the Second Step® digital programs support districtwide needs?
The Second Step digital programs provide leaders with visibility into implementation fidelity and allow educators to deliver consistent, research‑based instruction. The platform supports districtwide initiatives by offering tools that strengthen school climate, improve student engagement, and streamline implementation across multiple schools.
How widely are Second Step® programs used today?
Second Step programs are implemented in 46,000 schools across all 50 states, reaching more than 20 million children annually. Educators and district leaders nationwide rely on the programs’ research‑based lessons and flexible digital tools to support stronger school communities.
What outcomes can educators expect from Second Step® programs?
When implemented with fidelity, Second Step K–8 digital programs have been shown to improve academic motivation, prosocial behavior, and overall school climate while reducing disciplinary actions. These outcomes demonstrate the programs’ effectiveness in supporting student growth and schoolwide improvement.