About us

About us

What We Do!

The “Spectrum” story began back in 1968 when the Toronto District School Board was searching for an educational supply company to provide them with custom elementary-grade science kits. Mr. Jack West, then a veteran of the educational industry, recognized the opportunity to launch a new educational supply company on the back of the Toronto District School Boards request. From that point on there was no looking back. Almost immediately after Spectrum’s launch, two very exciting things happened in Canadian education. First, in 1970, Canada adopted the metric system as its’ system of measurement. The changeover to metric was gradual in the educational system as Canada needed to deal with the students who were already well into schooling based around the older imperial system. Second, Canada’s educators began to recognize the value of teaching mathematics through discovery-based learning. This system of learning is fundamentally based on the use of “hands-on learning” tools, also known as manipulatives.

Given the shortage of appropriate metric teaching tools, Jack began to create and manufacture his own. This era marked the birth of our manufacturing company SI Manufacturing (originally known as SI Metric Manufacturing Limited). By the way, the “SI” in our manufacturing company’s name is a reference to Systems International which is an international reference to the metric measurement system.

Over the next 50 years, Spectrum continued to reinvent itself, moulding its selection of products and market focus to the needs of Canada’s educational community. Our team travels the world regularly seeking new and unique manipulatives and solutions for your classroom. If a Canadian educational need can’t be adequately met with an existing manipulative, we manufacture one that will!

How We Do It!

Spectrum stands out for its commitment to providing specialized curriculum-based products tailored to each discipline. Our unique approach encompasses seven distinct and focused catalogues: Mathematics, Science, Technology & Robotics, Early Learning, Arts & Crafts, Elementary Education, and Healthcare.

These individualized catalogues are reinforced by dedicated sales, customer service, and merchandising teams, all geared towards assisting and guiding educators in their search for optimal teaching solutions. Our extensive product offerings within each category set us apart as leaders in the field.

Spectrum's team comprises 12 adept sales specialists strategically stationed across Canada, ensuring accessibility and convenience for you. Our sales staff operate from their own locales, putting them in sync with your unique needs. For your ease, please refer to the "Contact Us" section to connect with a sales representative in your vicinity.

Every member of our accomplished sales team undergoes rigorous training to provide comprehensive guidance and in-depth product insights. With a clear grasp of which products suit specific classroom scenarios, they're equipped to offer tailored recommendations. Always available and ready to assist, our sales specialists stand ready to be of service whenever you require their expertise.

In 2023, Spectrum achieved a significant milestone with the inauguration of our cutting-edge warehouse facility in Ajax, Ontario. This strategically positioned location enhances our ability to serve you with unparalleled efficiency. Our shelves house an extensive inventory worth millions of dollars, all dedicated to your needs. Our unwavering commitment is to deliver industry-leading product solutions promptly, underscoring our dedication to your satisfaction. Experience it for yourself and discover why the buzz around Spectrum is well-deserved. Your expectations will not only be met but exceeded!

Copyright © 1968 to Present.  SPECTRUM Nasco Educational Supplies Limited.  All rights reserved.