Quill is a not-for-profit that “has adapted research-based writing instruction into a free, open-source digital platform”(Quill, 2022). They do provide a paid version of their service for schools that include premium features, but the foundation of their mission is to provide all students with the ability to access quality writing instruction. I have used Quill in my classroom and was impressed by the attention to detail the algorithm shows to help students correct their writing and show improvement over time.
It was originally created by Peter Gault and his team out of New York City and launched in 2014. While it originally was created as a basic proofreading tool, Quill.org has been expanding its offerings since 2016 and recently announced that they would be building a free library of ELA, Social Studies, and Science activities to help promote critical thinking skills in students across the curriculum.
Peter Gault studied philosophy at Bates College and is driven by a strong social purpose of providing quality writing instruction to low-income students to help them improve their writing, and by extension reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. He has noted that these skills are essential for success in today’s job market and that the company he founded will help create opportunities for these students. As a not-for-profit, Quill.org is currently being supported by donors such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Peter Gault stresses the importance of focusing on your mission with a new start-up: “Fight tooth and nail to stay focused on exactly who you want to serve and repeat it constantly so that people really build the belief that this is the one thing you are seeking to do.” (Fast Forward, 2018) Although, he emphasizes that creating a not-for-profit tech start-up isn’t easy, he finds that it is “the right solution”.
References:
Fast Forward. (2018, Oct 23).7 Startup Lessons Learned from Quill’s Founder.https://www.ffwd.org/blog/accelerator/startup-lessons-learned/
Quill. (2022). About Us. https://www.quill.org/about
Handwriting seems like a lost skill and I can see the impact that Quill could have on communities when it comes to job applications of basic administrative employment. I believe what makes Peter Gault a successful entrepreneur is his passion and belief in his cause. The choice to go not-for-profit was interesting and demonstrates his belief in supporting learners and underserved communities over profit. Entrepreneurs are often celebrated on money and it is nice to see someone making choices that go beyond finances.