DES MOINES, IA, November 8, 2010 – Perfection Learning, one of the leading publishers of language arts materials for grades 6-12, announced today the closing of an agreement to acquire Seattle-based Kinetic Books, publisher of next-generation digital math and science textbooks for the secondary and higher education markets.
Kinetic Books’ programs include comprehensive digital textbooks in physics, algebra, and geometry designed from the ground up to take maximum advantage of current computer technology. Including such features as virtual labs, interactive activities, electronic whiteboards, self assessment, and step-by-step problem solving support, Kinetic Books’ programs allow teachers and students to realize the promise of a digital learning environment.
Kinetic Books physics texts are currently in use in hundreds of schools, universities, and 2-year colleges throughout the US and in over a dozen countries. Recently released math programs cover pre-algebra, Algebra 1, and Algebra 2. A geometry program will be available in 2011. Teachers are enthusiastic about Kinetic Books, "Overall, this curriculum increases the learning potential that each student has on their own,” said one teacher. “Several learning styles are addressed at once. Students with poor reading comprehension are still able to learn because they have the interactive videos and practice problems to work with. Audio learners are able to listen to the recordings. About the only thing this book doesn't do is make kids get up and dance...though we've been close at times."
“We are very excited to add Kinetic Books to our company,” said Steve Keay, Perfection Learning’s President and CEO. “Since 1926, we’ve focused on providing innovative, cost-effective solutions to classrooms. We believe that Kinetic Books’ programs provide the platform teachers need to fully incorporate digital learning tools in the classroom. Their physics and math texts are easy-to-use, comprehensive, and flexible. By creating interactive modules that follow standard textbook sequencing, Kinetic Books addresses the biggest challenge for teachers today – how to integrate digital materials successfully without having to find and incorporate materials from multiple sources, which is time consuming and often cost-prohibitive. With Kinetic Books, digital delivery is designed into the program from beginning to end.”
“We’re proud of our successes so far and believe joining the Perfection family is the way to both improve our products and bring them to more students and instructors,” said Bruce Jacobsen, founder of Kinetic Books. “Perfection has a proud tradition of providing excellent products and we believe we can benefit from their expertise and successes.”
Baltimore-based Parchman Vaughan & Company advised Kinetic Books on the transaction.