Renaissance Learning Announces New Laptop, NEO 2

New NEO 2 features enhanced functionality; runs Accelerated Reader and other Renaissance software

ATLANTA, June 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Renaissance Learning, Inc. today introduced the AlphaSmart NEO 2 laptop, an exciting new offering in the company’s electronic hardware product line, at the 28th annual National Educational Computing Conference.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20001108/RENAISSANCELOGO)

Available in late August, the NEO 2 includes all of the features of the original NEO — distraction-free writing, keyboarding and quizzing — and adds exciting new features. NEO 2 offers enhanced two-way communication through the use of radio frequency(RF) technology, which will maximize classroom participation, enable instantaneous formative assessment, and provide wireless printing from anywhere in the room. NEO 2 will also run a number of Renaissance Learning software programs, including the company’s flagship product, Accelerated Reader(TM).

“We are extremely pleased to offer educators another easy-to-use classroom tool that helps them incorporate technology to accelerate learning by providing more targeted instruction, while saving valuable time,” said Greg Wright, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Renaissance Learning’s Electronics Division. “The NEO 2 is an essential element in teaching across the curriculum, from reading, writing, and math, to science, social studies, and beyond. And of course, it is major news that NEO 2 will run Accelerated Reader.”

Accelerated Reader Quizzing

The NEO 2 will have the hardware components needed to enable students to take wireless Accelerated Reader quizzes. In March 2008, the Accelerated Reader SmartApplet will be fully functional for schools using Accelerated Reader Renaissance Place. Students will be able to take quizzes on their NEO 2s at their own desks, freeing up classroom computers and limiting trips to the library or computer lab to take AR quizzes.

Instantaneous Classroom Response

The NEO 2 maximizes classroom participation through instantaneous interactions between teachers and students by using signature Renaissance Learning technology, including 2Know! Toolbar, AccelTest software, and others. With the ability to administer more formal assessments using NEO 2, teachers can now pose several different types of questions and receive instant feedback from each student, allowing them to adjust instruction on the spot.

The NEO 2 laptops will be very competitively priced, especially in classroom quantity SmartOption Mobile Lab cart packages. Ordering information and details about the NEO 2 capabilities can be found by visiting http://www.alphasmart.com/K12 or by calling 888-274-0680 to speak with an AlphaSmart representative.

About Renaissance Learning, Inc.

Renaissance Learning, Inc. is the world’s leading provider of computer-based testing technology designed to enhance core curriculum in K-12 education by personalizing reading, math, and writing instruction and practice. Adopted by more than 71,000 North American schools, Renaissance Learning’s scientifically research-based products provide teachers and administrators with daily formative assessment and monthly progress monitoring tools to inform instruction, make data driven decisions, motivate students, dramatically accelerate learning, and improve test scores. Renaissance Learning has seven U.S. locations and subsidiaries in Canada, India, and the United Kingdom.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Renaissance Learning, Inc.