The Partnership for 21^st Century Skills cited West Virginia for Learn21, an online learning website that students can use during their time away from the classroom. Learn21 provides engaging Web-based math resources for students in grades pre K-12. Language arts, social studies and science resources will be added later to the Learn21 website.

“Learn21 allows students to learn while they play,” West Virginia Superintendent of Schools Steve Paine said. “Learn21 is an ever-changing resource that can be used to help our students become college and career-ready for today’s interconnected world.”

West Virginia was the second state in the nation to join the Partnership for 21^st Century Skills, which has emerged as the leading advocacy organization focused on infusing 21st century skills into education. Each year the partnership recognizes states for their efforts to advance 21^st century teaching and learning.

Since joining the partnership, West Virginia has worked to add rigor to its educational system and incorporate 21^st century skills, including learning and thinking skills; information and communications skills; technology skills; and work place productivity skills. West Virginia’s plan is called “Global 21: Students deserve it. The world demands it.”

“Students must be able to comprehend, problem solve and communicate solutions if they are expected to collaborate globally,” Paine said. “Learn21 is one of the many tools available to help prepare students for the 21^st century.”

For more information, contact the West Virginia Department of Education’s Communications Office at (304) 558-2699.