Creatively Focused, an ed-tech startup based in Minnesota, is on a mission to support and empower special educators with technology. The company has developed a software platform called axis3, which offers various features and services to help special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators cope with the challenges and demands of their field.
The Problem Of Burnout In Special Education
Special education is a rewarding but also stressful and demanding profession. According to a survey by the Council for Exceptional Children, 77% of special educators reported feeling stressed or very stressed at work, and 49% said they had considered leaving the field in the past year. Some of the factors that contribute to burnout in special education are:
- High workload and paperwork
- Lack of time and resources
- Low pay and recognition
- Emotional and physical exhaustion
- Isolation and lack of support
- Compliance and legal issues
Burnout can have negative consequences for both educators and students, such as lower quality of instruction, reduced motivation and engagement, increased absenteeism and turnover, and decreased student achievement and outcomes.
The Solution Of Creatively Focused
Creatively Focused is a startup that aims to address the problem of burnout in special education by providing technology-based solutions that can enhance the work experience and performance of special educators. The company was founded by Tara Erickson, a former special education director who witnessed the burnout that plagues many educators in the field.
The company’s flagship product is axis3, a multifunctional resource created specifically for special educators. Axis3 offers several features and services, such as:
- Personalized coaching and mentoring
- Time management and organization tools
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Data collection and analysis tools
- Collaboration and communication tools
- Compliance and documentation tools
Axis3 is designed to help special educators save time, reduce stress, improve skills, increase confidence, connect with peers, and ultimately deliver better outcomes for their students.
The Impact Of Creatively Focused
Creatively Focused has been working with schools and districts across the country to implement axis3 and provide support to special educators. The company claims that its platform has helped its clients achieve positive results, such as:
- Increased retention and satisfaction of special educators
- Improved compliance and documentation of special education services
- Enhanced collaboration and communication among special education teams
- Increased student engagement and achievement
- Reduced costs and risks associated with special education
Creatively Focused also has a social impact mission, as it donates a portion of its profits to fund scholarships for students with disabilities who want to pursue higher education.
The Future Of Creatively Focused
Creatively Focused is not only a startup but also a movement that aims to change the culture of special education. The company’s vision is to create a world where special educators are valued, respected, supported, and empowered to do their best work for their students.
The company plans to continue developing its platform and expanding its reach to more schools and districts. It also hopes to partner with other organizations and stakeholders in the field of special education to advocate for more resources, policies, and innovations that can benefit special educators and students.
Creatively Focused is using technology to help special educators everywhere. The company believes that by supporting the people who work with students with disabilities, it can make a difference in their lives and in society.
