An Update for Microsoft Education Partners

I heard from my buddie Steve Winfield that the education team at Microsoft is alive and well and there is some new info he asked that I pass along to partners who work in the education space. There is a new community being started aimed at Microsoft education partners. So if you sell to schools or colleges or any academic institutions - this should be of interest to you. This has been an on again, off again focus for Microsoft, and our experience is that when it is on, we take advantage of the opportunities related to it. The bottom line is they are creating a site where they aggregate and funnel all sorts of information about education solutions on MSFT technologies as well as provide a way for partners to communicate with them and with each other. If someone has a Live ID affiliated with a partner in the MSPP, then they can access the main site at http://www.MSEDUcommunity.com. If they are not yet affiliated with MSPP, they can access the blogs and forums at http://cs.MSEDUcommunity.

Check it and and let me know what you think. I also would love to hear what would help you be more effective in selling into the education sector. We need to win the battle for these kids early and often so they don't get brainwashed by some fruit.

Do you know an inspired teacher?

Do you know a teacher with an inspiring story? Invite them to participate in the Microsoft Inspired Teachers campaign to share stories of their most inspiring students.If you know a teacher who inspires—and is inspired by—students, simply send them to: http://www.microsoft.com/education/inspiredteachercontest/default.aspx.

Inspiration: When's the last time a student you know returned the favor? Every day, magic happens in the classroom. Moments when students realize there's more to learning than tests—and do truly amazing things. Sometimes, students actually inspire their teachers, when usually it's the other way around.

Get teachers you know to share their most inspiring story.Tell about the last time a student sparked inspiration in the classroom with an amazing discovery or creative solution. It's easy to share. Before you know it, they'll be communicating, connecting, and exploring with other teachers who are sharing stories of inspiration. They may even find inspiration in others' stories in the process.Once posted online, peers will be able to read and rate it. Prizes are available.

What do you get for passing this along - the knowledge that you are helping build community and that is what matters. Invest in educators and students.