Skyward Files Plan to Protest State Decision; Initial Analysis Indicates Key Area of Concern

Stevens Point, WI - Skyward, Inc., an industry leading K-12 school administration software provider serving 50 percent of Wisconsin school districts, issued the following statement:

We have reviewed the available information and have submitted our notice to protest the decision on the statewide student information system with the Department of Administration (DOA). This protest follows established guidelines from DOA in respect to the Request for Proposal for the Wisconsin Statewide Student Information System.

This protest is within standard practice for a decision of this magnitude, especially considering the negative impact it will have on Wisconsin school districts, tax payers, and job growth across Wisconsin.  Based on an analysis of the long-term expenses, Skyward is less expensive and will result in $2.6 million savings annually.  We are confident that Skyward provides the greatest return for Wisconsin taxpayers compared to the selected, Minnesota-based vendor.

Additionally, implementation costs identified by the Department of Public Instruction that would be the responsibility of each school district were not considered in the evaluation. A decision to switch to this selected vendor would place an additional and major implementation expense on 90% of Wisconsin school districts, and ultimately the Wisconsin taxpayer.

Skyward is encouraged and thankful for the outpouring of support it has received across the entire state to protest this decision, especially from our loyal and satisfied customers who have chosen to use our services because of their exceptional quality and value.

About Skyward

Skyward is a leading provider of K-12 school administrative software that surpasses districts’ needs in state reporting, improves operational capabilities, and opens communication between schools and families. Today, the Skyward School Management System™ is used in more than 1,600 school districts worldwide, ranging from districts with as few as 50 students to statewide implementations supporting more than one million students. Founded in 1980, Skyward serves school districts with its integrated student, finance, and human resources suite of products and is proudly made and supported in the United States. To learn more, visit www.skyward.com.