Problem
Here are some statistics on English learners in Texas:
- 10.3+% of all students is an English Learner (2020).
- In 2022, 76% of English learners (ELs) did not grow in their language.
- In 2023, 48% of high school senior ELs had a beginning or intermediate level of English.
Solution
Studies show that the fastest way to grow in a language is through reading. Reading doubles the rate of language learning.
AIR Language
AIR language is a reading platform that is built specifically for secondary English learners.
The system works like this: students take out their devices, and they read books featured on the app . Books are organized by topic and level, and followed by a quick quiz from which they earn points. During this time, which usually lasts for about 20 minutes, teachers meet with 1-3 students daily to discuss what they are reading about, and to coach them as readers.
When they feel ready, students are given the option to take a "progress check." If they do well enough on the progress check, they are given access to the next level of books.
Data
During the first 4 months of use, students did terrific. Here are the stats:
- Students read an average of 41 books per month
- Students grew an average of .45 levels per month (This is equivalent to going from zero English to intermediate in 6 months. This is unheard of by any other supplementary curriculum.)
- 0 students stagnated
Business Model
Right now, we charge $500 per classroom per year, but we are moving to subscription based model. The cost for this is $15-$30 per student per year (depending on the number of students per school), which is comparable to our competitors.
Traction
Only in the month of January, 2024 did we publish data, testimonials, and a one month free trial, but we are already getting traction.
- In January alone, we attracted 837 unique visitors to our landing page through organic social media marketing. We had 59 unique requests for information, and 6 quote requests.
- We have one sale from November to date, and the teacher says that she wants to continue to use AIR, along with the English Language Arts coordinator with the condition that we add certain features, we had already planned to add.
Team
Founder and CEO: Kyle Larson
- Double BA in English Linguistics and Spanish Language
- MA in Teaching
- Teaching experience in Mexico, China, Colombia, and the US from Kindergarten to Adults
- Has designed AIR Language from experiences in US high schools and its associated problems
- Wrote all curriculum to date
Tech Team: Effycient
- A no-code team based in Montenegro with Nick Wilger, CEO at the helm
Curriculum: Drew Larson
- National Board Certified
- Double BA in Economics and History
- MA in Teaching
- Current US History Teacher
Compliance and Bookkeeping: Marina Larson
- 10 years experience in HR and onboarding with K-Force
- Worked with major clients such as JP Morgan, and other financial institutions
Advisor: Artem Golovin
- 4 years experience as a customer success manager
- Currently a client success manager in Financial Tech
Advisor: Rachelle Dené Poth
- MS in IT, Educational/Instructional Technology
- Juris Doctor Degree, Law, Duquesne University School
- ACTFL Member
- Current Spanish and Technology Teacher
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