McGraw Hill Acquires Teachally, Expanding AI Educational Tools
McGraw Hill integrates Teachally, an AI edtech startup, to enhance its K-12 curriculum capabilities.
On 2 September 2026, McGraw Hill announced the acquisition of Teachally, an AI-driven startup based in Bothell, Washington. Teachally, directed by Daniel Bernstein, specializes in providing AI tools that assist teachers in creating state-aligned lessons and assessments. The financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed.
Teachally, founded by Seattle tech veteran Daniel Bernstein, is known for its innovative approaches in the educational sector, specifically focusing on high-quality instructional materials. The startup’s technology is designed to aid teachers rather than students, emphasizing the development of state-aligned curriculums. This acquisition aligns with McGraw Hill’s strategy to accelerate its AI adoption in K-12 education, as stated by Jana Thompson, interim president of McGraw Hill's School group.
Daniel Bernstein has a notable history in Seattle's tech scene, having established and sold Sandlot Games in 2011. In recent years, he transitioned from gaming to educational technology, leveraging his experience as an M&A advisor. Teachally itself began as EZ Reward, focusing initially on a digital sticker chart before pivoting to its current AI-centered model.
The acquisition enhances McGraw Hill’s capability to develop and localize curriculum content more effectively. It also reinforces the company’s commitment to integrating AI tools that empower educators. Bernstein’s team, comprising five members across three continents, joins McGraw Hill, with Bernstein taking on the role of senior advisor.
Teachally was already recognized as a significant player in the edtech landscape, having been acknowledged by District Administration magazine as a top product for curriculum and instruction. At the time of acquisition, Teachally was working with approximately eight school districts and had completed a small funding round from local angel investors months prior.
This acquisition is emblematic of a broader trend in the education sector, where edtech companies increasingly focus on enhancing teacher capabilities through technology. It underscores the rising demand for AI-driven educational tools and their potential to reshape traditional teaching methods.
Going forward, stakeholders will closely watch how McGraw Hill integrates Teachally’s technology into its existing platforms and how this will influence the company's product offerings. Further developments in McGraw Hill's AI strategy may set precedents for other educational publishers aiming to innovate with technology.
Teachally’s journey from a local startup to being acquired by an industry giant not only highlights the evolving role of AI in education but also marks another significant milestone in Bernstein's diverse career.