Skip to content Our Commitment to You
Thank you for trusting Essential Skills Software Inc. (“Essential Skills,” “we,” “our”). Protecting your privacy and securing your data is our top priority.
We’re proud to have met the rigorous standards of NYC Schools Data Privacy and Security Compliance Process, including a comprehensive cloud review conducted by IBM. With NYC being the largest school district in North America, this achievement demonstrates our serious commitment to data security.
Additionally, Essential Skills is a signatory of the Student Privacy Pledge, reaffirming our dedication to safeguarding student information and upholding the highest standards of privacy.
You can count on us to handle your data with care and integrity while providing a safe and secure learning environment. This Privacy Policy is part of our Terms of Service and explains how we protect your information and keep you in control.
Information Collection
The Official Stuff
- Student Data: We only collect a student’s first name (or a nickname). This ensures we can keep records without compromising privacy.
- School, Teacher, and Administrator Information: Names, email addresses, and school details are collected to set up accounts, process orders, and stay in touch.
- Cookies: We use cookies to improve site functionality, like remembering your login or preferences. You can manage cookies in your browser, but turning them off might affect some features.
- Technologically Sourced Information: IP addresses, device identifiers, and usage data are collected to enhance security and performance.
What This Means for You
We only collect the essentials: first names for students and contact details for teachers and administrators. Cookies help make your experience smoother, but you’re in control. If you decide to disable them, some features might be limited.
How We Use the Information
The Official Stuff
- Customize services (like saving your preferences and improving your experience).
- Monitor usage trends to enhance performance.
- Comply with legal and educational standards.
- Occasionally send service updates or promotional emails, which you can opt out of.
What This Means for You
Your data helps us improve your experience, meet legal standards, and send helpful updates (no spam, promise). You’re always free to unsubscribe.
Purpose of Data Collection and Use
The Official Stuff
- For Education Only: Data is used solely to support learning, in compliance with laws like FERPA and SOPPA.
- No Ads or Marketing: We never sell or share your data for non-educational purposes.
What This Means for You
Your data is strictly for educational purposes. No ads, no marketing gimmicks—just learning.
Data from Minors
The Official Stuff
- Student accounts are created by authorized teachers or administrators. Students cannot create accounts or use services without supervision.
- Parents can request details about their child’s data by contacting us at support@essentialskills.com (ID verification required).
What This Means for You
Teachers manage student accounts. Parents can check in anytime about their child’s data by reaching out to us.
Data Security and Protection
The Official Stuff
- Encryption: AES-256 encryption protects data at every stage.
- Hosting: Data is securely hosted on AWS, which adheres to strict privacy standards.
- Breach Notification: If there’s a data breach, we’ll notify schools and parents promptly.
What This Means for You
Your data is safe with us. If there’s ever a security issue, you’ll be the first to know.
Data Sharing and Retention
The Official Stuff
- No Unauthorized Sharing: Data is never shared with third parties.
- Retention: Data is kept only as long as needed and securely deleted upon request.
- Deletion Requests: Schools and parents can request data deletion anytime.
What This Means for You
We don’t share your data unless absolutely necessary. When it’s no longer needed, it’s gone.
Changes in Ownership
The Official Stuff
If we’re acquired or merge with another company, your data will follow the same privacy rules unless you agree to a new policy. We’ll keep you informed and give you options.
What This Means for You
If ownership changes, your data will still be protected. You’ll always be kept in the loop.
Compliance with Privacy Laws
The Official Stuff
We comply with privacy laws like FERPA, COPPA, SOPIPA, SOPPA, CCPA, and PIPEDA to protect your data.
What This Means for You
We follow the rules to keep your data safe and give you rights, like accessing or deleting your data.
Transparency and Updates
The Official Stuff
This Privacy Policy was last updated on January 21, 2025. If we make significant updates, we’ll let you know via email or notifications.
What This Means for You
We’ll always keep you informed about any big changes to this policy.
Glossary:
- Cookies: Small files that improve your browsing experience.
- Encryption: Turning data into unreadable code for security.
For questions or concerns, please contact us at support@essentialskills.com.