Studies Weekly, an Orem-based K-6 standards-based curriculum company, has announced that John McCurdy has been appointed its chief executive officer. He succeeds Ed Rickers, who is retiring after 20 years with the company. The change took place on May 1.
“The educational process has always been a passion of mine,” said McCurdy. “A long time ago, I learned that what many call entertainment, also serves as education in disguise. If students aren’t learning the way we teach, then we must adjust and teach the way they learn. In today’s world of amazing innovations, the educational process may be evolving, but the fundamentals of connecting with the student remain the same. When the educational process is entertaining, the pace at which the student learns increases.”
“I’ve observed John’s successful career since 1996. We have so much in common in the way we think and believe,” said Rickers. “Some people are wordsmiths, John is a ‘people smither’ and I think he’s part Jedi. As Yoda would say, ‘Understand the Studies Weekly vision to make a difference for students, he does.’”
McCurdy has spent the last 29 years in the technology industry with roles spanning from sales representative to vice president of worldwide sales, the company said in a release. He has experience in team development, strategy, operations and channel programs. He joins Studies Weekly after playing a consultative role with the company.
McCurdy graduated from Brigham Young University in business management with an emphasis in finance and marketing.