← IXL Learning
IXL Learning role-play cheat sheet
For the mock cold call at the end of most SDR interviews.
What they sell, in one line
Online learning subscriptions (math, language arts, science and more) that give students personalized practice, sold to schools, districts, and families.
Who you'd be calling
School principals, curriculum directors, district tech and instruction leaders, and math or ELA department heads at K-12 schools.
Your opener
“Hi Ms. Lee, this is Alex from IXL Learning. I know school days are packed, so I'll be quick. I'm calling teachers and principals about how they give each student practice at their own level. Is that something you handle?”
Problems you solve for them
- Students in one class are at very different skill levels
- Teachers have little time to build practice and see who is struggling
- Districts must show learning results to justify spending
Discovery questions to ask
- How do your teachers handle students who are ahead or behind in the same class?
- What tools do you use now for practice and tracking progress?
- How do you decide which programs to renew each year, and who is part of that?
Objections they'll throw at you
“I'm busy right now.”
→ I get it, schools are slammed. Could I send a two-line note and call back at a time that's quieter for you, say Thursday afternoon?
“Not interested.”
→ That's fair. Is it because you're already happy with student practice, or just not a priority right now?
“We already use something.”
→ Many schools do. What does it do well, and what do your teachers still wish it could do?
“Send me an email.”
→ Sure thing. Who else besides you should see it, since I know programs like this often get a group decision?
Competitors worth knowing
Khan Academy, Renaissance Learning, Curriculum Associates, Zearn
Interview tips for this company
- Understand the school buying cycle: budgets are set in spring, and many decisions involve several people.
- Practice talking to teachers and principals with respect for their time, and ask who else decides.
Written from public information about IXL Learning to help you practice. Ask an insider what their role play looked like; it's the best prep there is.