The educational publishing industry in the US encompasses a variety of companies that create and distribute instructional resources and materials for students and educators. From K-12 textbooks and curriculum-focused resources to higher education materials and professional development tools, these publishers play a vital role in shaping educational experiences. Innovations such as digital content and personalized learning tools continue to influence the industry’s trajectory, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and adaptability. Trends indicate a growing reliance on technology in education, prompting publishers to integrate more interactive elements into their offerings, catering to both traditional and modern learning environments.

The featured companies vary significantly in size and specialty, representing multiple facets of educational publishing. Established between the early 20th century and the present day, their headquarters range across the United States, from California to Florida. These organizations provide specialized products tailored to K-12 schools, higher education, and professional development efforts. Larger players like McGraw Hill have a substantial presence, while smaller publishers focus on niche markets, developing targeted materials for specific educational needs. Together, they underscore the dynamic nature of this essential sector.

Read on to explore the top educational publishing companies in the US.

Top 24 Educational Publishing Companies in the US

1. Kendall Hunt Publishing Company

• Website: kendallhunt.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dubuque, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Founded year: 1944
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: kendall-hunt-publishing-company

Kendall Hunt Publishing Company, based in Dubuque, Iowa, has been a significant player in the educational publishing industry since its inception in 1944. The company specializes in producing textbooks and educational resources for both K-12 and higher education. Their mission is to provide quality educational products and services that cater to the specific needs of educators and students. Kendall Hunt emphasizes innovation, offering customizable content solutions that allow educators to tailor materials to their curriculum. The company has also been involved in various partnerships, such as with OpenSciEd, to enhance their science education offerings. Their commitment to professional development and support for educators further solidifies their role in the educational landscape.

2. Heinemann

• Website: heinemann.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Portsmouth, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: heinemann-publishing

Heinemann, based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a private educational publisher founded in 1978. The company specializes in providing a wide array of professional resources aimed at teachers and educational institutions. Their product offerings include books, curricular resources, and professional development opportunities designed to enhance teaching practices and improve student learning outcomes. Heinemann is particularly known for its well-respected programs such as Fountas & Pinnell Literacy™ and Units of Study, which are widely used in classrooms across the United States. The company also emphasizes research and results, showcasing efficacy studies and case studies that support their instructional strategies. With a workforce of approximately 273 employees, Heinemann remains focused on serving the educational community, primarily within the United States, and continues to be an active player in the educational publishing industry.

3. Abeka

• Website: abeka.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Pensacola, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Colombia 3%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: a-beka-book

Abeka Book, LLC, based in Pensacola, Florida, is an educational publisher that specializes in K-12 curriculum materials aimed at Christian schools and homeschooling families. Established in 1972, Abeka has built a comprehensive catalog that includes textbooks, teaching aids, and video programs. Their curriculum is designed to integrate biblical principles with academic standards, providing resources that not only educate but also instill Christian values. The company serves a wide range of customers, primarily educators and parents who prioritize faith-based education. Abeka's materials are developed by experienced educators and are tested in real-world settings, ensuring they meet the needs of their users. The company also offers professional development opportunities for educators, further solidifying its role in the educational community. With a workforce of around 543 employees, Abeka continues to be an active and relevant player in the educational publishing industry.

4. Macmillan Learning

• Website: macmillanlearning.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, India 7%, Canada 3%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: macmillan-learning

Macmillan Learning, based in New York, is an educational publisher that specializes in providing textbooks and digital learning tools primarily for higher education. Established in 1946, the company has built a reputation for delivering quality educational resources that support both students and educators. Their product range includes traditional textbooks, e-books, and innovative digital platforms such as Achieve and iClicker, which facilitate interactive learning experiences. Macmillan Learning emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in education, striving to create materials that cater to a wide array of learning needs. The company actively collaborates with educators and scholars to develop content that is not only informative but also engaging. Their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility further highlights their role as a conscientious player in the educational publishing sector. With a workforce of around 836 employees, Macmillan Learning continues to adapt to the evolving educational landscape, ensuring that they remain a relevant and impactful entity in the industry.

5. Medical Professional | McGraw Hill

• Website: mhprofessional.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, India 27%
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: mcgraw-hillmedical

Medical Professional | McGraw Hill, based in New York, has been a prominent educational publisher since its founding in 1917. The company specializes in producing textbooks, interactive learning solutions, and professional development resources tailored for students, educators, and professionals across various fields. Their offerings include a wide range of subjects, with a strong emphasis on medical and engineering education. McGraw Hill Professional is dedicated to enhancing learning experiences through digital solutions and mobile applications, ensuring that their materials are accessible in today's hybrid learning environments. The company has established a reputation for providing authoritative content created by recognized authors and subject matter experts, which supports both academic success and career advancement.

6. Cognella

• Website: cognella.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cognella

Cognella, Inc., founded in 1992 and based in San Diego, California, is an academic publisher dedicated to producing educational materials for higher education. The company offers a variety of products, including textbooks, custom learning materials, and interactive ebooks. Cognella's primary audience includes educators and students who seek effective resources to enhance the learning experience. The company prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with authors and institutions to create content that meets specific educational needs. Cognella operates under several imprints, including Cognella Academic Publishing, Cognella Custom, and Cognella Active Learning, each focusing on different aspects of educational publishing. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their development of interactive learning materials and custom editions tailored to individual courses. Cognella also emphasizes affordability and accessibility, ensuring that their materials are priced competitively to support student success.

7. Capstone

• Website: capstonepub.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: North Mankato, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: capstone-publishers

Capstone, based in North Mankato, Minnesota, is a family-owned educational publisher that has been operational since 1991. The company specializes in providing a wide array of print and digital resources aimed at enhancing literacy among students, particularly in grades K-5. Their product lineup includes classroom libraries, interactive eBooks, and tailored services that cater to the specific needs of educators and students. Capstone is known for its commitment to creating engaging content that not only supports teaching but also fosters a love for reading among young learners. Their flagship product, PebbleGo, is a curriculum-connected collection of nonfiction articles designed to build foundational reading and research skills. Capstone's focus on quality educational materials and their active engagement with teachers and librarians positions them as a relevant player in the educational publishing sector.

8. Scholastic Canada

• Website: scholastic.ca
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Founded year: 1957
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: scholastic-canada-ltd.

Scholastic Canada, founded in 1957, is a prominent book publisher and educational resource provider based in Canada. The company specializes in a wide array of books and educational materials aimed at enhancing literacy among children. They operate through various channels, including Book Clubs and Book Fairs, which serve as platforms for families to access affordable books while supporting schools. Scholastic Canada also offers engaging magazines and curriculum resources that are aligned with educational standards, focusing on language development and literacy competency. Their catalog features popular series and authors, catering to a broad audience of young readers. The company is dedicated to fostering a love of reading and learning, making it a vital contributor to the educational publishing industry.

9. Abc-clio

• Website: abc-clio.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Barbara, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $22.9M, December 2021
• Founded year: 1955
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: abc-clio

ABC-CLIO, based in Santa Barbara, California, is an educational publisher that has been operational since 1955. The company specializes in providing a wide array of digital resources and databases designed to support educators and students across various educational levels. Their product offerings include 17 school databases that cover essential topics in social studies, as well as academic databases that focus on core history subjects and interdisciplinary research. ABC-CLIO aims to inspire lifelong learning through its resources, which are tailored to meet the needs of schools, academic libraries, and public libraries. The company has also received $22.9 million in funding as of December 2021, which underscores its commitment to enhancing educational resources and adapting to the needs of modern learners.

10. World Book, Inc.

• Website: worldbook.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Australia 5%, Nigeria 2%
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: world-book

World Book, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private educational publisher founded in 1917. The company specializes in encyclopedias and educational materials tailored for children and teachers. With a workforce of approximately 241 employees, World Book is dedicated to enhancing learning and reading comprehension through a variety of products. Their offerings include digital resources, book sets, and single titles that cater to different grade levels and subjects. The company emphasizes the importance of accurate and engaging content, ensuring that their encyclopedic information is continually updated and accessible across various devices. World Book's commitment to education is reflected in their focus on creating materials that support both students and educators, making them a trusted resource in homes, libraries, and classrooms.

11. Teacher Created Materials

• Website: teachercreatedmaterials.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Huntington Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: tcmpub

Teacher Created Materials (TCM) is an educational resource provider based in Huntington Beach, California, specializing in the creation and publication of teaching materials for K-12 educators. Since its inception in 1977, TCM has focused on developing a wide array of products, including books, intervention resources, and professional development tools aimed at enhancing student learning and supporting teachers in their instructional practices. The company prides itself on its philosophy of being 'created by teachers for teachers and students,' ensuring that their offerings are grounded in real classroom needs. TCM's catalog includes resources for various subjects and grade levels, reflecting their commitment to addressing the diverse needs of educators. They also engage in professional learning opportunities, providing workshops and training to help educators implement their materials effectively. TCM's emphasis on culturally responsive teaching and their initiatives to support multilingual learners further highlight their relevance in today's educational environment.

12. The Rosen Publishing Group

• Website: rosenpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rosenpublishinggroup

The Rosen Publishing Group, established in 1950 and based in New York, is a family-owned educational publisher dedicated to providing high-interest educational materials for students and educators from Pre-K to 12. The company specializes in creating engaging content that spans a variety of subjects, including STEM, literature, and social issues. Over the decades, Rosen Publishing has developed a reputation for producing quality educational resources that enhance learning experiences in classrooms. Their catalog includes a range of formats, from traditional print books to digital resources, catering to the evolving needs of educators and students. The company actively participates in educational initiatives and collaborates with organizations to support literacy and learning, demonstrating their commitment to the educational community.

13. Brookes Publishing

• Website: brookespublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Towson, Maryland, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: paul-h.-brookes-publishing-co.

Brookes Publishing Co. is an educational publisher based in Towson, Maryland, with a history dating back to 1978. The company specializes in creating professional resources and assessments that cater to various educational levels, including early childhood, K-12, special education, and higher education. Their offerings include a variety of screening tools, training seminars, and educational books designed to support educators in effectively teaching and assessing students, particularly those with special needs. Brookes Publishing is known for its commitment to providing high-quality materials that promote inclusive education and support the development of all learners. Their catalog features numerous book series and resources aimed at enhancing literacy, social-emotional development, and multilingual education, reflecting their dedication to addressing the needs of a broad spectrum of students and educators.

14. Studies Weekly

• Website: studiesweekly.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Orem, Utah, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: studies-weekly

Studies Weekly, based in Orem, Utah, is a private educational publisher that specializes in K-8 curriculum development. Founded in 1984, the company has grown to employ between 201 and 500 people, focusing on providing engaging educational materials for Social Studies, Science, and Health & Wellness. Their products are designed to meet state standards and are available in both print and online formats, catering to a variety of educational settings, including traditional schools, summer programs, and homeschooling. Studies Weekly has made significant strides in enhancing their curriculum by incorporating feedback from educators and experts, ensuring that their materials are not only informative but also relevant to today’s educational needs. The company has also invested in professional development for its staff, aiming to create a curriculum that reflects current educational strategies and practices.

15. Jones & Bartlett Learning

• Website: jblearning.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Singapore 4%, Pakistan 2%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: jones-%26-bartlett-learning

Jones & Bartlett Learning is a private educational publisher based in the United States, founded in 1983. The company focuses on health, fitness, and sport resources, offering a range of interactive eBooks, study materials, and assessments designed to enhance the learning experience for educators and students alike. They primarily serve schools, universities, and health organizations, providing content that is both authoritative and aligned with course objectives. Their Navigate platform exemplifies their commitment to modern education, integrating interactive tools and real-time analytics to support teaching and learning. With a workforce of around 190 employees, Jones & Bartlett Learning continues to play a significant role in the educational publishing industry, particularly in specialized fields related to health and wellness.

16. Social Studies School Service

• Website: socialstudies.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: social-studies-school-service

Social Studies School Service, based in Culver City, California, is an educational publisher dedicated to enhancing social studies education. Since its inception in 1965, the company has provided a wide array of high-quality materials and resources aimed at teachers and educational institutions. Their product offerings include curriculum materials, maps, globes, and digital learning tools, all designed to promote hands-on learning and inquiry-based approaches. This focus helps to engage students and deepen their understanding of social studies concepts. The company collaborates with various districts to create customized supports that align with specific curriculum goals, ensuring that their resources meet the evolving needs of educators and students alike. Social Studies School Service also maintains a commitment to professional development through partnerships and webinars, further solidifying their role in the educational community.

17. W. W. Norton & Company, Inc.

• Website: wwnorton.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1923
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: w.-w.-norton-%26-company-inc

W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. is a private publishing firm based in New York, New York, with a history dating back to 1923. The company specializes in educational and literary content, serving a broad audience that includes students, educators, and general readers. W. W. Norton is known for its commitment to high-quality educational resources, which are designed to enhance the learning experience in various academic disciplines. The company publishes a range of materials, including textbooks, literature, and digital resources, making it a significant contributor to the educational publishing industry. With a workforce of approximately 883 employees, W. W. Norton operates primarily within the United States, ensuring that its offerings are tailored to meet the needs of the American educational system.

18. Gryphon House, Inc.

• Website: gryphonhouse.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lewisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gryphon-house-inc-

Gryphon House, Inc., based in Lewisville, North Carolina, is a private educational publisher that has been active since 1971. The company specializes in creating resources for early childhood education, offering a variety of books and professional development materials tailored for educators, childcare providers, and parents. Their products are designed to support effective teaching practices and improve learning experiences for young children. Gryphon House's catalog includes resources that cover various aspects of early education, such as behavior guidance, family engagement, and lesson planning. The company also engages with its audience through webinars and provides a learning center filled with insightful tips and free resources for early educators. With a dedicated focus on early childhood education, Gryphon House plays a significant role in the educational publishing industry.

19. Guilford Press

• Website: guilford.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Switzerland 3%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: guilford-publications

Guilford Press, established in 1973 and based in New York City, is a private publishing company that specializes in educational materials, particularly in the fields of mental health and education. With a workforce of approximately 87 employees, Guilford Press produces a variety of resources, including books, periodicals, and digital media. Their publications are aimed at educators, students, and professionals, providing high-quality content that supports both learning and practical application. The company operates primarily through online sales, offering various discounts and membership benefits to enhance accessibility for their customers. Guilford Press also engages with its audience through initiatives like the Customer Club, which provides exclusive deals and free shipping, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement.

20. Perma-Bound Books

• Website: perma-bound.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Jacksonville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Georgia 3%, Ghana 3%
• Founded year: 1954
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: perma-bound-books

Perma-Bound Books, founded in 1954 and based in Jacksonville, Illinois, is a family-owned company that specializes in providing educational resources for K-12 schools and libraries. The company is known for its durable prebound books and a wide selection of digital audiobooks, catering specifically to the needs of educational institutions. Perma-Bound offers a comprehensive range of curriculum materials, including leveled collections and resources for struggling readers, as well as library services that enhance the learning experience for students. Their commitment to quality is highlighted by their unique binding process, which ensures that their books withstand the rigors of frequent use in educational settings. With a focus on customer service and a personalized approach, Perma-Bound has built a reputation for reliability and expertise in the educational publishing industry.

21. Davis Publications

• Website: davisart.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Worcester, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%
• Founded year: 1901
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: davis-publications

Davis Publications, based in Worcester, Massachusetts, has been a family-owned educational publisher since its founding in 1901. The company specializes in K-12 art education resources, providing a comprehensive array of curriculum materials, professional development courses, and digital platforms aimed at supporting art educators. Their products include instructional resources for elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as professional development opportunities that help educators enhance their teaching practices. Davis Publications is committed to improving art education and student engagement, making it a significant contributor to the educational publishing industry. They also offer free resources and a magazine, SchoolArts, which serves as a platform for art educators to share insights and innovations in teaching. With a workforce of around 61 employees, the company maintains a strong presence in the U.S. and the U.K., focusing on the unique needs of art educators.

22. Knewton Alta

• Website: knewton.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hoboken, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, India 17%
• Latest funding: May 2019
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: knewton

Knewton Alta, a product of Wiley, is an educational technology company based in Hoboken, New Jersey. Founded in 2008, Knewton Alta specializes in adaptive learning solutions that aim to enhance student achievement through personalized educational experiences. The platform assesses student knowledge gaps in real time, providing tailored support and resources to help learners succeed. Knewton Alta's courseware integrates detailed answer explanations and just-in-time instruction, ensuring that students receive the assistance they need precisely when they need it. This focus on adaptive learning not only improves student engagement but also equips educators with actionable insights into student performance. Knewton Alta operates under the umbrella of Wiley, a well-established educational publisher, which further solidifies its presence in the industry. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model within the educational publishing sector.

23. BJU Press

• Website: bjupress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Greenville, South Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: bjupress

BJU Press, based in Greenville, South Carolina, is a private educational publisher that specializes in providing resources for homeschooling families. Established in 1974, the company has developed a comprehensive range of products, including textbooks and online learning programs, all designed to support parents in educating their children at home. BJU Press emphasizes a biblically-based education, which resonates with a specific demographic of homeschooling families seeking to integrate their faith into their children's learning. The company also offers a Distance Learning Online program, which features daily video lessons taught by experienced educators, allowing students to learn at their own pace while parents maintain oversight. With a workforce of approximately 382 employees, BJU Press remains dedicated to its mission of equipping families with quality educational materials tailored to their unique needs.

24. Gibbs Smith Education

• Website: gibbssmitheducation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kaysville, Utah, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gibbs-smith-education

Gibbs Smith Education, founded in 1969 and based in Kaysville, Utah, is a private educational publisher that specializes in social studies resources for K-12 education. The company produces a variety of educational materials, including textbooks and digital content, aimed at enhancing the teaching and learning of history and cultural studies. Their offerings include programs in state history, U.S. history, world history, and various diversity studies, such as Asian American and Black American studies. Gibbs Smith Education is dedicated to providing educators with the tools necessary to engage students effectively and improve curriculum standards. They also emphasize professional development, ensuring that teachers are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to foster academic achievement. As an employee-owned company, Gibbs Smith Education is committed to making a positive impact in public education, focusing on ethical practices and community engagement.

Educational Publishing Insights: Key Companies in the US

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