AROUND THE WORLD: Microsoft is ante'ing up on its edtech philanthropy. Last week, it renewed its support for its Partners in Learning program, adding $250 million over five years (to 2018). Started in 2003, the program is a 15-year, $750 million commitment, aimed at supporting teachers and student training in 21st learning skills through activities such as workshops, peer coaching, and its virtual "Partners in Learning" network that includes this list of free tools for teachers (which, not surprisingly, rely on Microsoft platforms). So far, it's reached 11 million teachers and 200 million students. (It hopes to reach 20 million teachers). Microsoft also committed another $75 million to expand digital access to education resources in developing countries. The company will donate software and providing IT training services to get students and educators up to speed.
