John Wiley & Sons (WLY) 10-Q 5 Dec 19 2020 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Nov. 30, 2019
Entity Listings [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	0000107140
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--04-30
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Oct. 31, 2019
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-11507
Entity Tax Identification Number	13-5593032
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	NY
Entity Address, Address Line One	111 River Street
Entity Address, City or Town	Hoboken
Entity Address, State or Province	NJ
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	07030
City Area Code	201
Local Phone Number	748-6000
Common Stock Class A [Member]
Entity Listings [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		47,041,052
Title of 12(b) Security	Class A Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share
Trading Symbol	JW.A
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Common Stock Class B [Member]
Entity Listings [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		9,115,923
Title of 12(b) Security	Class B Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share
Trading Symbol	JW.B
Security Exchange Name	NYSE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMEN

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION - UNAUDITED - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 107,744	$ 92,890
Accounts receivable, net		235,466	294,867
Inventories, net		45,032	35,582
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		58,926	67,441
Total Current Assets		447,168	490,780
Product Development Assets, net		57,394	62,470
Royalty Advances, net		16,473	36,185
Technology, Property and Equipment, net		294,761	289,021
Intangible Assets, net		880,613	865,572
Goodwill		1,143,197	1,095,666
Operating Lease Right-of-Use Assets		145,886	0
Other Non-Current Assets		97,279	97,308
Total Assets		3,082,771	2,937,002
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable		74,425	90,980
Accrued royalties		91,438	78,062
Short-term portion of long-term debt		6,250	0
Contract liabilities	[1]	248,653	507,365
Accrued employment costs		74,727	97,230
Accrued income taxes		3,294	21,025
Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities		18,409	0
Other accrued liabilities		68,446	75,900
Total Current Liabilities		585,642	870,562
Long-Term Debt		788,360	478,790
Accrued Pension Liability		152,707	166,331
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities		137,295	143,775
Operating Lease Liabilities		164,622	0
Other Long-Term Liabilities		75,149	96,197
Total Liabilities		1,903,775	1,755,655
Shareholders' Equity
Preferred Stock, $1 par value: Authorized - 2 million, Issued 0		0	0
Additional paid-in-capital		429,968	422,305
Retained earnings		1,940,902	1,931,074
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(505,026)	(508,738)
Treasury stock		(770,030)	(746,476)
Total Shareholders' Equity		1,178,996	1,181,347
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity		3,082,771	2,937,002
Class A [Member]
Shareholders' Equity
Common Stock		70,149	70,127
Class B [Member]
Shareholders' Equity
Common Stock		$ 13,033	$ 13,055
[1]	The sales return reserve recorded in Contract Liabilities is $37.7 million and $25.9 million, as of October 31, 2019 and April 30, 2019, respectively.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_2

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION - UNAUDITED (Parenthetical) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Shareholders' Equity
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	2,000	2,000
Preferred Stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Class A [Member]
Shareholders' Equity
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Common Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	180,000	180,000
Common Stock, shares issued (in shares)	70,149	70,127
Treasury stock (in shares)	23,107	22,634
Class B [Member]
Shareholders' Equity
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Common Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	72,000	72,000
Common Stock, shares issued (in shares)	13,033	13,055
Treasury stock (in shares)	3,918	3,918

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_3

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - UNAUDITED - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
		Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - UNAUDITED [Abstract]
Revenue, net		$ 466,205	$ 448,622	$ 889,735	$ 859,523
Costs and Expenses
Cost of sales		143,413	132,577	286,509	260,315
Operating and administrative expenses		240,380	236,207	490,550	476,633
Restructuring and related charges		4,001	9,996	14,736	3,910
Amortization of intangibles		15,020	12,367	29,990	25,050
Total Costs and Expenses		402,814	391,147	821,785	765,908
Operating Income	[1]	63,391	57,475	67,950	93,615
Interest Expense		(6,787)	(3,608)	(12,864)	(6,404)
Foreign Exchange Transaction Losses		(2,668)	(54)	(16)	(1,783)
Interest and Other Income		2,537	2,509	5,370	4,975
Income Before Taxes		56,473	56,322	60,440	90,403
Provision for Income Taxes		11,783	12,538	12,126	20,324
Net Income		$ 44,690	$ 43,784	$ 48,314	$ 70,079
Earnings Per Share
Basic (in dollars per share)		$ 0.79	$ 0.76	$ 0.86	$ 1.22
Diluted (in dollars per share)		$ 0.79	$ 0.76	$ 0.85	$ 1.21
Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding
Basic (in shares)		56,326	57,379	56,431	57,392
Diluted (in shares)		56,664	57,870	56,791	57,955
[1]	Adjusted Contribution to Profit is Contribution to Profit adjusted for restructuring charges (credits). See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for these charges (credits) by segment.Adjusted EBITDA is Adjusted Contribution to Profit with depreciation and amortization added back.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_4

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - UNAUDITED - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - UNAUDITED [Abstract]
Net Income	$ 44,690	$ 43,784	$ 48,314	$ 70,079
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment	38,319	(20,424)	2,780	(60,749)
Unamortized retirement costs, net of tax benefit (provision) of $1,822, $(1,229), $(358), and $(3,717), respectively	(6,576)	4,387	1,592	13,198
Unrealized (loss) gain on interest rate swaps, net of tax benefit of $236, $245, $280 and $449, respectively	(745)	(781)	(660)	(1,433)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	30,998	(16,818)	3,712	(48,984)
Comprehensive Income	$ 75,688	$ 26,966	$ 52,026	$ 21,095

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_5

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - UNAUDITED (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Unamortized retirement costs, tax benefit (provision)	$ 1,822	$ (1,229)	$ (358)	$ (3,717)
Unrealized (loss) gain on interest rate swaps, tax benefit	$ 236	$ 245	$ 280	$ 449

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_6

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW - UNAUDITED - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Operating Activities
Net income	$ 48,314	$ 70,079
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
Amortization of intangibles	29,990	25,050
Amortization of product development assets	17,616	18,928
Depreciation and amortization of technology, property and equipment	37,251	35,845
Restructuring and related charges	14,736	3,910
Stock-based compensation expense	10,289	8,882
Employee retirement plan expense	4,054	3,369
Royalty advances	(48,250)	(50,580)
Earned royalty advances	67,814	71,317
Foreign exchange transaction losses	16	1,783
Other non-cash charges	10,643	4,328
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities
Accounts receivable, net	60,836	1,921
Accounts payable	(17,765)	(13,856)
Contract liabilities	(263,665)	(255,890)
Other accrued liabilities	(34,612)	(54,437)
Other assets and liabilities	(36,788)	12,790
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities	(99,521)	(116,561)
Investing Activities
Product development spending	(11,686)	(12,351)
Additions to technology, property and equipment	(44,531)	(34,560)
Businesses acquired in purchase transactions, net of cash acquired	(74,169)	0
Acquisitions of publication rights and other	(4,045)	(2,795)
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities	(134,431)	(49,706)
Financing Activities
Repayment of long-term debt	(65,680)	(65,800)
Borrowing of long-term debt	383,151	245,075
Payment of debt issuance costs	(4,006)	0
Purchase of treasury shares	(25,000)	(24,994)
Change in book overdrafts	681	(3,066)
Cash dividends	(38,486)	(38,033)
Net (payments) proceeds from exercise of stock options and other	(1,393)	7,283
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities	249,267	120,465
Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash	(461)	(8,368)
Cash Reconciliation:
Cash and cash equivalents	92,890	169,773
Restricted cash included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets	658	484
Balance at Beginning of Period	93,548	170,257
Increase/(Decrease) for the Period	14,854	(54,170)
Cash and cash equivalents	107,744	115,603
Restricted cash included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets	658	484
Balance at End of Period	108,402	116,087
Cash Paid During the Period for:
Interest	12,125	5,713
Income taxes, net of refunds	$ 30,170	$ 18,404

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_7

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - UNAUDITED - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock [Member]Class A [Member]	Common Stock [Member]Class B [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]Class A [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]Class B [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]Class A [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]Class B [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]Class A [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]Class B [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]Class A [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]Class B [Member]	Total	Class A [Member]	Class B [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Adjustment Due to Adoption of New Revenue Standard	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0			$ 4,503			$ 0			$ 0			$ 4,503
Balance at Apr. 30, 2018	70,111	13,071	407,120			1,834,057			(694,222)			(439,580)			1,190,557
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans	0	0	(2,984)			3			3,080			0			99
Net (Payments) Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other	0	0	4,700			0			2,583			0			7,283
Stock-based Compensation Expense	0	0	8,882			0			0			0			8,882
Purchase of Treasury Shares	0	0	0			0			(24,994)			0			(24,994)
Common Stock Dividends	0	0		$ 0	$ 0		$ (31,996)	$ (6,037)		$ 0	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0		$ (31,996)	$ (6,037)
Common Stock Class Conversions	14	(14)	0			0			0			0			0
Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Net of Tax	0	0	0			70,079			0			(48,984)			21,095
Balance at Oct. 31, 2018	70,125	13,057	417,718			1,870,609			(713,553)			(488,564)			1,169,392
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Adjustment Due to Adoption of New Revenue Standard	0	0	0			0			0			0			0
Balance at Jul. 31, 2018	70,115	13,067	413,488			1,845,811			(696,727)			(471,746)			1,174,008
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans	0	0	(828)			4			877			0			53
Net (Payments) Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other	0	0	106			0			(703)			0			(597)
Stock-based Compensation Expense	0	0	4,952			0			0			0			4,952
Purchase of Treasury Shares	0	0	0			0			(17,000)			0			(17,000)
Common Stock Dividends	0	0		0	0		(15,974)	(3,016)		0	0		0	0		(15,974)	(3,016)
Common Stock Class Conversions	10	(10)	0			0			0			0			0
Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Net of Tax	0	0	0			43,784			0			(16,818)			26,966
Balance at Oct. 31, 2018	70,125	13,057	417,718			1,870,609			(713,553)			(488,564)			1,169,392
Balance at Apr. 30, 2019	70,127	13,055	422,305			1,931,074			(746,476)			(508,738)			1,181,347
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans	0	0	(2,793)			0			3,006			0			213
Net (Payments) Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other	0	0	167			0			(1,560)			0			(1,393)
Stock-based Compensation Expense	0	0	10,289			0			0			0			10,289
Purchase of Treasury Shares	0	0	0			0			(25,000)			0			(25,000)
Common Stock Dividends	0	0		0	0		(32,278)	(6,208)		0	0		0	0		(32,278)	(6,208)
Common Stock Class Conversions	22	(22)	0			0			0			0			0
Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Net of Tax	0	0	0			48,314			0			3,712			52,026
Balance at Oct. 31, 2019	70,149	13,033	429,968			1,940,902			(770,030)			(505,026)			1,178,996
Balance at Jul. 31, 2019	70,139	13,043	424,904			1,915,445			(755,501)			(536,024)			1,132,006
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans	0	0	(681)			1			787			0			107
Net (Payments) Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other	0	0	60			0			(316)			0			(256)
Stock-based Compensation Expense	0	0	5,685			0			0			0			5,685
Purchase of Treasury Shares	0	0	0			0			(15,000)			0			(15,000)
Common Stock Dividends	0	0		$ 0	$ 0		$ (16,130)	$ (3,104)		$ 0	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0		$ (16,130)	$ (3,104)
Common Stock Class Conversions	10	(10)	0			0			0			0			0
Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Net of Tax	0	0	0			44,690			0			30,998			75,688
Balance at Oct. 31, 2019	$ 70,149	$ 13,033	$ 429,968			$ 1,940,902			$ (770,030)			$ (505,026)			$ 1,178,996

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEM_8

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - UNAUDITED (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Class A [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Common stock dividend (in dollars per share)	$ 0.34	$ 0.33	$ 0.34	$ 0.33
Class B [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Common stock dividend (in dollars per share)	$ 0.34	$ 0.33	$ 0.34	$ 0.33

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Note 1 Basis of Presentation Throughout this report, when we refer to “Wiley,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us,” we are referring to John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and all our subsidiaries, except where the context indicates otherwise. Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all the accounts of the Company and our subsidiaries. We have eliminated all intercompany transactions and balances in consolidation. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contain all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Condition, Results of Operations, Comprehensive Income and Cash Flows for the periods presented. Operating results for the interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full year. All amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts, and approximate due to rounding. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the most recent audited consolidated financial statements included in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2019 as filed with the SEC on July 1, 2019 (“2019 Form 10-K”). Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements were prepared in accordance with the interim reporting requirements of the SEC. As permitted under those rules, annual footnotes or other financial information that are normally required by U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted. The preparation of our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. The Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended October 31, 2018, includes a reclassification of $4.5 million, between Operating Activities within the net change in operating assets and liabilities and Investing Activities related to costs to fulfill a contract and product development spending. In addition, for the six months ended October 31, 2018, amortization expense related to costs to fulfill a contract of $1.2 million was reclassified from amortization of product development spending to other non-cash charges (credits) within Operating Activities.

Recent Accounting Standards

Recent Accounting Standards	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Recent Accounting Standards [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Standards	Note 2 Recent Accounting Standards Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02 “Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income,” which allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We adopted ASU 2018-02 on May 1, 2019. We did not elect to reclassify the income tax effects from comprehensive income to retained earnings for the stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Our policy for releasing the income tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive income is when the corresponding pretax accumulated other comprehensive income items are reclassified to earnings. Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities,” to simplify and improve the application and financial reporting of hedge accounting. Subsequently, in November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-1 6, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap (OIS) Rate as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes”. ASU 2017-12 Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)”. Subsequently, the FASB issued in March 2019, ASU 2019-01, “Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements”, in December 2018 ASU 2018-20, “Leases (Topic 842): Narrow Scope Improvements for Lessors”, and in July 2018 the FASB issued ASU 2018-11, “Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements” and ASU 2018-10, “Codification Improvements to Topic 842, Leases”. ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize a right-of-use asset (“ROU”) and lease liability for all leases with terms of more than 12 months and provide enhanced disclosures. Recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses depends on classification as a finance or operating lease. Similar modifications have been made to lessor accounting in-line with revenue recognition guidance. The new standard provides a number of optional practical expedients in transition. We elected the practical expedients to forgo a reassessment of (1) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, (2) the lease classification for any expired or existing leases, and (3) initial direct costs. We did not elect the practical expedient allowing the use-of-hindsight which would have required us to reassess the lease term of our leases based on all facts and circumstances through the effective date. In addition, we did not elect the practical expedient pertaining to land easements. In addition, the new standard provides as a practical expedient, certain policy elections for ongoing lease accounting which we elected at the date of adoption and included the following, (i) to not separate nonlease components from the associated lease component if certain conditions are met, and (ii) to not recognize ROU assets and lease liabilities for leases that qualify as short-term. A modified retrospective transition approach was required, applying the standard to all leases existing at the date of initial application. A company could choose to use either (1) its effective date or (2) the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements as of its date of initial application. We adopted the new standard on May 1, 2019 and used the effective date as the date of initial application. Accordingly, previously reported financial information was not updated, and the disclosures required under the new standard will not be provided for dates and periods before May 1, 2019. At adoption, we recognized operating lease liabilities of $178 million based on the present value of the remaining minimum rental payments for existing operating leases and ROU assets of $142 million on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. The difference between the ROU assets and operating lease liabilities represents the existing deferred rent liabilities, prepaid rent balances, and applicable restructuring liabilities, which were reclassified upon adoption to reduce the measurement of the ROU assets. The adoption of the standard did not have an impact on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity, Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income or Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow. See Note 5, “Operating Leases”, for further details on our operating leases. Recently Issued Accounting Standards Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software: Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That is a Service Contract In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, “Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That is a Service Contract.” ASU 2018-15 aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, and interim periods within that fiscal year, with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements. Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14, “Compensation-Retirement Benefits-Defined Benefit Plans-General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans.” ASU 2018-14 removes certain disclosures that are not considered cost beneficial, clarifies certain required disclosures and added additional disclosures. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. The amendments in ASU 2018-14 would need to be applied on a retrospective basis. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our disclosures. Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement.” ASU 2018-13 removes, modifies and added disclosures. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted. Certain disclosures in ASU 2018-13 would need to be applied on a retrospective basis and others on a prospective basis. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our disclosures. Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Intangibles–Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): “Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment”, which simplifies the measurement of a potential goodwill impairment charge by eliminating the requirement to calculate an implied fair value of the goodwill based on the fair value of a reporting unit’s other assets and liabilities. The new guidance eliminates the implied fair value method and instead measures a potential impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying value compared to its fair value. The impairment charge cannot exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted. Based on our most recent annual goodwill impairment test completed in the year ended April 30, 2019, we expect no impact upon adoption. Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” Subsequently, in May 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-05 - "Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Targeted Transition Relief”, in April 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-04, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments,” in November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-19, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses,” and in November 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-11, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses”. ASU 2016-13 requires entities to measure all expected credit losses for most financial assets held at the reporting date based on an expected loss model which includes historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Entities will now use forward-looking information to better form their credit loss estimates. ASU 2016-13 also requires enhanced disclosures to help financial statement users better understand significant estimates and judgments used in estimating credit losses, as well as the credit quality and underwriting standards of an entity’s portfolio. ASU 2016-13, ASU 2019-05, ASU 2019-04, ASU 2018-19, and ASU 2019-11 are effective for us on May 1, 2020, including interim periods within those fiscal periods, with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Note 3 Acquisitions Fiscal Year 2020 Zyante Inc. On July 1, 2019, we completed the acquisition of Zyante Inc. (“zyBooks”), a leading provider of computer science and STEM education courseware. The results of operations of zyBooks is included in our Academic & Professional Learning segment results. The preliminary fair value of the consideration transferred at the acquisition date was $57.0 million which included $55.9 million of cash and $1.1 million of additional consideration to be paid after the acquisition date. The fair value of the cash consideration transferred including those amounts paid after the acquisition date, net of $1.8 million of cash acquired was approximately $54.3 million. The following table summarizes the preliminary consideration transferred to acquire zyBooks and the preliminary allocation of the purchase price among the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Preliminary Allocation as of July 1, 2019 Total cash consideration transferred at the acquisition date $ 55,884 Assets: Current Assets 2,280 Technology, Property and Equipment, net 28 Intangible Assets, net 24,500 Goodwill 37,246 Total Assets $ 64,054 Liabilities: Current Liabilities 2,581 Deferred Income Tax Liabilities 5,589 Total Liabilities $ 8,170 The following table summarizes the identifiable intangible assets acquired and their weighted-average useful life at the date of acquisition. Estimated Fair Value Weighted-Average Useful Life (in Years) Developed Technology $ 10,400 7 Customer Relationships 6,800 10 Content 4,400 10 Trademarks 2,900 10 Total $ 24,500 Other Acquisitions On May 31, 2019, we completed the acquisition of certain assets of Knewton, Inc. (“Knewton”). Knewton is a provider of affordable courseware and adaptive learning technology. The results of Knewton are included in our Academic & Professional Learning segment results. In addition, in the three months ended July 31, 2019 we also completed the acquisition of two immaterial businesses, which are included in our Research Publishing & Platforms segment and in the three months ended October 31, 2019 one immaterial business included in our Academic & Professional Learning segment results. The preliminary fair value of cash consideration transferred during the six months ended October 31, 2019 was approximately $19.9 million. We recorded the preliminary fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the acquisition date, which included a preliminary allocation of $9.4 million of goodwill and $16.2 million of intangible assets. The allocation of the total consideration transferred to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed for the acquisitions discussed above is preliminary and could be revised as a result of additional information obtained due to the finalization of the third-party valuation report, tax related matters and contingencies, but such amounts will be finalized within the measurement period, which will not exceed one year from the acquisition dates. Fiscal Year 2019 The Learning House, Inc. On November 1, 2018, we completed the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding stock of The Learning House, Inc. (“Learning House”) a diversified education services provider. The results of operations of Learning House are included in our Education Services segment. The fair value of the consideration transferred was $201.3 million which included $200.7 million of cash and $0.6 million of warrants, inclusive of purchase price adjustments which were finalized in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2019. We financed the payment of the cash consideration through borrowings under our RCA (as defined below in Note 15, “Debt and Available Credit Facilities”). The warrants were classified as equity and allow the holder to purchase 400,000 shares of our Class A Common Stock at an exercise price of $90.00, subject to adjustments. The term of the warrants is three years, expiring on November 1, 2021. The fair value of the warrants was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The final fair value of the cash consideration transferred, net of $10.3 million of cash acquired was $190.4 million. The allocation of the consideration transferred to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed is final.

Revenue Recognition, Contracts

Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers	Note 4 Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers Disaggregation of Revenue As previously announced, we changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas. See Note 10, “Segment Information,” for more details. The following table presents our revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type. Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Research Publishing & Platforms: Research Publishing $ 225,085 $ 219,710 $ 445,012 $ 436,424 Research Platforms 9,624 9,365 19,072 17,968 Total Research Publishing & Platforms 234,709 229,075 464,084 454,392 Academic & Professional Learning: Education Publishing 101,741 107,474 167,264 181,508 Professional Learning 75,984 82,196 155,319 164,586 Total Academic & Professional Learning 177,725 189,670 322,583 346,094 Education Services: Education Services 53,771 29,877 103,068 59,037 Total Education Services 53,771 29,877 103,068 59,037 Total Revenue $ 466,205 $ 448,622 $ 889,735 $ 859,523 Accounts Receivable, net and Contract Liability Balances When consideration is received, or such consideration is unconditionally due, from a customer prior to transferring goods or services to the customer under the terms of a contract, a contract liability is recorded. Contract liabilities are recognized as revenue when, or as, control of the products or services are transferred to the customer and all revenue recognition criteria have been met. The following table provides information about receivables and contract liabilities from contracts with customers. October 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 Increase/ (Decrease) Balances from contracts with customers: Accounts receivable, net $ 235,466 $ 294,867 $ (59,401 ) Contract liabilities (1) 248,653 507,365 (258,712 ) Contract liabilities (included in Other Long-Term Liabilities) $ 19,622 $ 10,722 $ 8,900 (1) The sales return reserve recorded in Contract Liabilities is $37.7 million and $25.9 million, as of October 31, 2019 and April 30, 2019, respectively. Revenue recognized for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 relating to the contract liability at April 30, 2019 was $184.6 million and $378.9 million, respectively. Remaining Performance Obligations included in Contract Liability As of October 31, 2019, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to the remaining performance obligations is approximately $268.3 million, which included the sales return reserve of $37.7 million. Excluding the sales return reserve, we expect that approximately $211.0 million will be recognized in the next twelve months with the remaining $19.6 million to be recognized thereafter. Assets Recognized for the Costs to Fulfill a Contract Costs to fulfill a contract are directly related to a contract that will be used to satisfy a performance obligation in the future and are expected to be recovered. These types of costs are incurred in the following revenue streams, (1) Research Platforms and (2) Education Services. Our assets associated with incremental costs to fulfill a contract were $10.3 million at October 31, 2019 and are included within Other Non-Current Assets on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. We recorded amortization expense of $1.1 million and $2.1 million during the three and six months ended October 31, 2019, respectively, related to these assets within Cost of Sales on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. We recorded amortization expense of $0.4 million and $1.2 million during the three and six months ended October 31, 2018, respectively, related to these assets within Cost of Sales on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. Sales and value-added taxes are excluded from revenues. Shipping and handling costs, which are primarily incurred within the Academic & Professional Learning segment occur before the transfer of control of the related goods. Therefore, in accordance with the new revenue standard, it is not considered a promised service to the customer and would be considered a cost to fulfill our promise to transfer the goods. Costs incurred for third party shipping and handling are reflected in Operating and Administrative Expenses on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. We incurred $7.6 million and $15.0 million in shipping and handling costs in the three and six months ended October 31, 2019, respectively. We incurred $8.6 million and $16.5 million in shipping and handling costs in the three and six months ended October 31, 2018, respectively.

Operating Leases

Operating Leases	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Operating Leases [Abstract]
Operating Leases	Note 5 Operating Leases On May 1, 2019, we adopted a new accounting standard for leases. For further information, see Note 2, “Recent Accounting Standards.” We have contractual obligations as a lessee with respect to offices, warehouses and distribution centers, automobiles, and office equipment. We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception of the contract in accordance with guidance detailed in the new standard and we perform the lease classification test as of the lease commencement date. ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The present value of the lease payments is calculated using an incremental borrowing rate, which was determined based on the rate of interest that we would have to pay to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments on a collateralized basis over a similar term. We use an unsecured borrowing rate and risk-adjust that rate to approximate a collateralized rate. Under the new leasing standard, leases that are more than one year in duration are capitalized and recorded on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Some of our leases offer an option to extend the term of such leases. We utilize the reasonably certain threshold criteria in determining which options we will exercise. Furthermore, some of our lease payments are based on index rates with minimum annual increases. These represent fixed payments and are captured in the future minimum lease payments calculation. For operating leases, the ROU assets and liabilities are presented in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as follows: October 31, 2019 Operating Lease Right-of-Use Assets $ 145,886 Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities 18,409 Operating Lease Liabilities, non-current $ 164,622 During the six months ended October 31, 2019, we added $12.1 million to the ROU assets and $13.7 million to the operating lease liabilities due to new leases as well as modifications and remeasurements to our existing operating leases. Our total net lease costs are as follows: Three Months Ended October 31, 2019 Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 Operating lease cost $ 6,199 $ 13,060 Variable lease cost 915 2,118 Sublease income 184 (339 ) Total net lease cost $ 7,298 $ 14,839 Other supplemental information includes the following: Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Lease Term (Years) Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 Operating leases 10 Weighted-average discount rate: Operating leases 5.91 % Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 14,716 The table below reconciles the undiscounted cash flows for the first five years and total of the remaining years to the operating lease liabilities recorded in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as of October 31, 2019 : Fiscal Year Operating Lease Liabilities 2020 (remaining 6 months) $ 16,758 2021 28,073 2022 25,085 2023 22,683 2024 21,791 Thereafter 134,823 Total undiscounted lease payments 249,213 Less: Imputed interest 66,182 Present Value of Minimum Lease Payments 183,031 Less: Current portion 18,409 Noncurrent portion $ 164,622

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Note 6 Stock-Based Compensation We have stock-based compensation plans under which employees may be granted performance-based stock awards and other restricted stock awards. Prior to fiscal year 2017, we also granted options to purchase shares of our common stock at the fair market value at the time of grant. We recognize the grant date fair value of stock-based compensation in net income on a straight-line basis, net of estimated forfeitures over the requisite service period. The measurement of performance for performance-based stock awards is based on actual financial results for targets established three years in advance. For the three months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, we recognized stock-based compensation expense, on a pre-tax basis, of $5.7 million and $5.0 million, respectively. For the six months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, we recognized stock-based compensation expense, on a pre-tax basis, of $10.3 million and $8.9 million, respectively. The following table summarizes restricted stock awards we granted (shares in thousands): Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 Restricted Stock: Awards granted 716 397 Weighted average fair value of grant $ 44.75 $ 63.33

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Note 7 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by component, net of tax, for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: Foreign Currency Translation Unamortized Retirement Costs Interest Rate Swaps Total Balance at July 31, 2019 $ (347,646 ) $ (187,889 ) $ (489 ) $ (536,024 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 38,319 (7,960 ) (481 ) 29,878 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 1,384 (264 ) 1,120 Total other comprehensive income (loss) 38,319 (6,576 ) (745 ) 30,998 Balance at October 31, 2019 $ (309,327 ) $ (194,465 ) $ (1,234 ) $ (505,026 ) Balance at April 30, 2019 $ (312,107 ) $ (196,057 ) $ (574 ) $ (508,738 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 2,780 (830 ) (153 ) 1,797 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 2,422 (507 ) 1,915 Total other comprehensive income (loss) 2,780 1,592 (660 ) 3,712 Balance at October 31, 2019 $ (309,327 ) $ (194,465 ) $ (1,234 ) $ (505,026 ) Foreign Currency Translation Unamortized Retirement Costs Interest Rate Swaps Total Balance at July 31, 2018 $ (291,898 ) $ (182,215 ) $ 2,367 $ (471,746 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (20,424 ) 3,273 543 (16,608 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 1,114 (1,324 ) (210 ) Total other comprehensive income (loss) (20,424 ) 4,387 (781 ) (16,818 ) Balance at October 31, 2018 $ (312,322 ) $ (177,828 ) $ 1,586 $ (488,564 ) Balance at April 30, 2018 $ (251,573 ) $ (191,026 ) $ 3,019 $ (439,580 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (60,749 ) 10,993 613 (49,143 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 2,205 (2,046 ) 159 Total other comprehensive income (loss) (60,749 ) 13,198 (1,433 ) (48,984 ) Balance at October 31, 2018 $ (312,322 ) $ (177,828 ) $ 1,586 $ (488,564 ) During the three months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, pre-tax actuarial losses included in Unamortized Retirement Costs of approximately $1.7 million and $1.4 million, respectively, and in the , approximately $ million and $ million, respectively,

Reconciliation of Weighted Aver

Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	Note 8 Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding A reconciliation of the shares used in the computation of earnings per share follows: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Weighted average shares outstanding 56,339 57,426 56,451 57,451 Less: Unvested restricted shares (13 ) (47 ) (20 ) (59 ) Shares used for basic earnings per share 56,326 57,379 56,431 57,392 Dilutive effect of stock options and other stock awards 338 491 360 563 Shares used for diluted earnings per share 56,664 57,870 56,791 57,955 Since their inclusion in the calculation of diluted earnings per share would have been anti-dilutive, options to purchase 212,094 shares of Class A Common Stock have been excluded for both the three and six months ended October 31, 2019, respectively and 157,167 shares of Class A Common Stock have been excluded for the three and six months ended October 31, 2018, respectively. Warrants to purchase 515,114 shares of Class A Common Stock have not been included for both the three and six months ended October 31, 2019, respectively. There were no warrants issued during the three and six months ended October 31, 2018. There were no restricted shares excluded for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Restructuring and Related Charg

Restructuring and Related Charges	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Restructuring and Related Charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Charges	Note 9 Restructuring and Related Charges Business Optimization Program Beginning in fiscal year 2020, we initiated a multi-year Business Optimization Program (the “Business Optimization Program”) to drive efficiency improvement and operating savings. The following tables summarize the pre-tax restructuring charges related to this program: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2019 Charges (Credits) by Segment: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 29 $ 2,665 Academic & Professional Learning 765 3,542 Education Services (475 ) 1,717 Corporate Expenses 2,835 6,100 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 3,154 $ 14,024 Charges by Activity: Severance and termination benefits $ 578 $ 11,287 Operating lease right-of-use asset impairment — 161 Facility related charges 1,240 1,240 Other Activities 1,336 1,336 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 3,154 $ 14,024 Other Activities for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 relate to reserves associated with the cessation of certain offerings and the impairment of certain software licenses. The following table summarizes the activity for the Business Optimization Program liability for the six months ended October 31, 2019 : April 30, 2019 Charges Payments Foreign Translation & Other Adjustments October 31, 2019 Severance and termination benefits $ — $ 11,287 $ (2,760 ) $ (168 ) $ 8,359 Other Activities — 1,336 — (365 ) 971 Total $ — $ 12,623 $ (2,760 ) $ (533 ) $ 9,330 The restructuring liability as of October 31, 2019 for accrued severance and termination benefits is reflected in Accrued Employment Costs in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. The restructuring liability as of October 31, 2019 for other activities is reflected in Other Accrued Liabilities in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Restructuring and Reinvestment Program Beginning in the year ended April 30, 2013, we initiated a global program (the “Restructuring and Reinvestment Program”) to restructure and realign our cost base with current and anticipated future market conditions. We are targeting a majority of the expected cost savings achieved to improve margins and earnings, while the remainder will be reinvested in high-growth digital business opportunities. The following tables summarize the pre-tax restructuring charges related to this program: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, Total Charges 2019 2018 (1) 2019 2018 (1) Incurred to Date Charges (Credits) by Segment: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 697 $ 2,282 $ 681 $ 1,302 $ 27,225 Academic & Professional Learning 35 2,194 63 1,477 42,902 Education Services — 310 (103 ) 102 3,764 Corporate Expenses 115 5,210 71 1,029 96,449 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 847 $ 9,996 $ 712 $ 3,910 $ 170,340 Charges by Activity: Severance and termination benefits $ 847 $ 8,672 $ 497 $ 2,894 $ 116,756 Consulting and Contract Termination Costs — 90 — 225 21,155 Other Activities — 1,234 215 791 32,429 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 847 $ 9,996 $ 712 $ 3,910 $ 170,340 (1) As previously announced, we have changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas. See Note 10, “Segment Information,” for more details. Other Activities for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 include facility related costs. Other Activities for the three and six months ended October 31, 2018 include lease impairment related costs. The following table summarizes the activity for the Restructuring and Reinvestment Program liability for the six months ended October 31, 2019 : April 30, 2019 Charges Payments Adoption of New Lease Standard (1) Foreign Translation & Other Adjustments October 31, 2019 Severance and termination benefits $ 4,887 $ 497 $ (3,125 ) $ — $ 203 $ 2,462 Consulting and Contract Termination Costs 303 — — — — 303 Other Activities 2,544 — — (2,258 ) (34 ) 252 Total $ 7,734 $ 497 $ (3,125 ) $ (2,258 ) $ 169 $ 3,017 (1) Refer to Note 2, “Recent Accounting Standards,” and Note 5, “Operating Leases” for more information related to the adoption of the new lease standard. The restructuring liability as of October 31, 2019 for accrued severance and termination benefits is reflected in Accrued Employment Costs in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. The liability as of October 31, 2019, for Consulting and Contract Termination Costs is reflected in Other Accrued Liabilities. As of October 31, 2019, $0.3 million of Other Activities are reflected in Other Accrued Liabilities and mainly relate to facility relocation and lease impairment related costs. We currently do not anticipate any further material charges related to the Restructuring and Reinvestment Program.

Segment Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	Note 10 Segment Information As previously announced, we have changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas: (1) Research Publishing & Platforms, which includes the Research publishing and Atypon businesses, (2) Academic & Professional Learning, which is the former “Publishing” segment combined with our corporate training businesses – previously noted as Professional Assessment and Corporate Learning; and (3) Education Services, which is the online program management business. Prior period segment results have been revised to the new segment presentation. There were no changes to our consolidated financial results. We report our segment information in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 280. These segments reflect the way our chief operating decision maker evaluates our business performance and manages the operations. Segment information is as follows: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Revenue Research Publishing & Platforms $ 234,709 $ 229,075 $ 464,084 $ 454,392 Academic & Professional Learning 177,725 189,670 322,583 346,094 Education Services 53,771 29,877 103,068 59,037 Total Revenue $ 466,205 $ 448,622 $ 889,735 $ 859,523 Contribution to Profit: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 63,291 $ 59,210 $ 118,937 $ 116,527 Academic & Professional Learning 35,050 47,078 39,961 68,845 Education Services 2,583 (867 ) (4,616 ) (5,886 ) Total Contribution to Profit (1) $ 100,924 $ 105,421 $ 154,282 $ 179,486 Corporate Expenses (37,533 ) (47,946 ) (86,332 ) (85,871 ) Operating Income (1) $ 63,391 $ 57,475 $ 67,950 $ 93,615 Adjusted Contribution to Profit: (1) Research Publishing & Platforms $ 64,017 $ 61,492 $ 122,283 $ 117,829 Academic & Professional Learning 35,850 49,272 43,566 70,322 Education Services 2,108 (557 ) (3,002 ) (5,784 ) Total Adjusted Contribution to Profit $ 101,975 $ 110,207 $ 162,847 $ 182,367 Adjusted Corporate Expenses (34,583 ) (42,736 ) (80,161 ) (84,842 ) Total Adjusted Operating Income $ 67,392 $ 67,471 $ 82,686 $ 97,525 Depreciation and Amortization: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 17,037 $ 15,422 $ 34,190 $ 30,787 Academic & Professional Learning 17,349 17,473 33,873 35,050 Education Services 5,522 3,045 11,020 6,512 Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 39,908 $ 35,940 $ 79,083 $ 72,349 Corporate Depreciation and Amortization 2,730 3,712 5,774 7,474 Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 42,638 $ 39,652 $ 84,857 $ 79,823 Adjusted EBITDA: (2) Research Publishing & Platforms $ 81,054 $ 76,914 $ 156,473 $ 148,616 Academic & Professional Learning 53,199 66,745 77,439 105,372 Education Services 7,630 2,488 8,018 728 Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA $ 141,883 $ 146,147 $ 241,930 $ 254,716 Corporate Adjusted EBITDA (31,853 ) (39,024 ) (74,387 ) (77,368 ) Total Adjusted EBITDA $ 110,030 $ 107,123 $ 167,543 $ 177,348 (1) Adjusted Contribution to Profit is Contribution to Profit adjusted for restructuring charges (credits). See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for these charges (credits) by segment. (2) Adjusted EBITDA is Adjusted Contribution to Profit with depreciation and amortization added back. The following table shows a reconciliation of GAAP net income to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net Income $ 44,690 $ 43,784 $ 48,314 $ 70,079 Interest expense 6,787 3,608 12,864 6,404 Provision for income taxes 11,783 12,538 12,126 20,324 Depreciation and amortization 42,638 39,652 84,857 79,823 Non-GAAP EBITDA $ 105,898 $ 99,582 $ 158,161 $ 176,630 Restructuring and related charges 4,001 9,996 14,736 3,910 Foreign exchange transaction losses 2,668 54 16 1,783 Interest and other income (2,537 ) (2,509 ) (5,370 ) (4,975 ) Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA $ 110,030 $ 107,123 $ 167,543 $ 177,348

Inventories

Inventories	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Inventories [Abstract]
Inventories	Note 11 Inventories Inventories, net were as follows: October 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 Finished Goods $ 36,258 $ 33,736 Work-in-Process 2,637 2,094 Paper and Other Materials 344 373 $ 39,239 $ 36,203 Inventory Value of Estimated Sales Returns 9,889 3,739 LIFO Reserve (4,096 ) (4,360 ) Total Inventories $ 45,032 $ 35,582

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Note 12 Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill The following table summarizes the activity in goodwill by segment as of October 31, 2019: April 30, 2019 Acquisitions (1) Foreign Translation Adjustment October 31, 2019 Research Publishing & Platforms $ 438,511 $ 844 $ 640 $ 439,995 Academic & Professional Learning 458,145 45,752 134 504,031 Education Services 199,010 161 — 199,171 Total $ 1,095,666 $ 46,757 $ 774 $ 1,143,197 (1) Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions,” for more information related to the acquisitions that occurred in the six months ended October 31, 2019. As previously announced, we have changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas. See Note 10, “Segment Information,” for more details. Due to this reorganization, we have reallocated goodwill to our reporting units using a relative fair value approach. We tested goodwill for impairment immediately before and after the reorganization, and we concluded that the fair values of the reporting units were above their carrying values and, therefore, there was no indication of impairment. Intangible Assets Identifiable intangible assets, net consisted of the following: October 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net: Content and Publishing Rights (1) $ 384,364 $ 389,172 Customer Relationships (1) 245,822 245,830 Brands and Trademarks (1) 11,753 12,993 Covenants not to Compete 345 445 Developed Technology (1) 17,989 — Total 660,273 648,440 Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives: Brands and Trademarks 134,005 130,909 Content and Publishing Rights 86,335 86,223 Total 220,340 217,132 Total Intangible Assets, Net $ 880,613 $ 865,572 (1) Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions,” for more information related to the acquisitions that occurred in the six months ended October 31, 2019.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 13 Income Taxes The effective tax rate for the three months ended October 31, 2019 was 20.9%, compared with 22.3% for the three months ended October 31, 2018. The effective tax rate for the was compared with for the six months ended October 31, 2018. The rates for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 were lower than the rates for the three and six months ended October 31, 2018 primarily due to a more favorable earnings mix, as well as certain net discrete items, including a tax-free life insurance recovery. , the rates would have been and for the ended , respectively.

Retirement Plans

Retirement Plans	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Retirement Plans [Abstract]
Retirement Plans	Note 14 Retirement Plans The components of net pension expense (income) for our global defined benefit plans were as follows: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Service cost $ 1,093 $ 229 $ 1,317 $ 462 Interest cost 6,350 6,169 12,184 12,381 Expected return on plan assets (9,886 ) (9,720 ) (19,945 ) (19,622 ) Net amortization of prior service cost (19 ) (24 ) (38 ) (48 ) Unrecognized net actuarial loss 1,581 1,474 3,181 2,908 Net pension income $ (881 ) $ (1,872 ) $ (3,301 ) $ (3,919 ) Employer defined benefit pension plan contributions were $3.3 million and $3.5 million for the three months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and $ million and $ million for the , respectively. The expense for employer defined contribution plans were approximately $3.1 million and $2.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively , and $ million and $ million for the , respectively

Debt and Available Credit Facil

Debt and Available Credit Facilities	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Debt and Available Credit Facilities [Abstract]
Debt and Available Credit Facilities	Note 15 Debt and Available Credit Facilities Amended and Restated RCA On May 30, 2019, we entered into a credit agreement that amended and restated our existing revolving credit agreement (“Amended and Restated RCA”). The Amended and Restated RCA provides for senior unsecured credit facilities comprised of a (i) five-year revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount up to $1.25 billion, and (ii) a five-year term loan A facility consisting of $250 million. Under the terms of the Amended and Restated RCA, which can be drawn in multiple currencies, we have the option of borrowing at the following floating interest rates: (i) at a rate based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.98% to 1.50%, depending on our consolidated net leverage ratio, as defined, or (ii) at the lender’s base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from zero to 0.50%, depending on our consolidated net leverage ratio. The lender’s base rate is defined as the highest of (i) the U.S. federal funds effective rate plus a 0.50% margin, (ii) the Eurocurrency rate, as defined, plus a 1.00% margin, or (iii) the Bank of America prime lending rate. In addition, we pay a facility fee for the revolving credit facility ranging from 0.15% to 0.25% depending on our consolidated net leverage ratio. We also have the option to request an increase in the revolving credit facility by an amount not to exceed $500 million, in minimum increments of $50 million, subject to the approval of the lenders. The Amended and Restated RCA We incurred in the three months ended July 31, 2019 an immaterial loss on the write-off of unamortized deferred costs in connection with the refinancing of our RCA (as defined below) which is reflected in Interest and Other Income on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the six months ended October 31, 2019. We incurred in the three months ended July 31, 2019 $4.0 million of costs related to the Amended and Restated RCA which resulted in total costs capitalized of $5.2 million. The amount related to the term loan A facility was $0.9 million, consisting of $0.8 million of lender fees and recorded as a reduction to Long-Term Debt and $0.1 million of non-lender fees included in Other Non-Current Assets. The amount related to the five-year revolving credit facility was $4.3 million, all of which is included in Other Non-Current Assets. The amortization expense of the lender and non-lender fees is recognized over the five-year term of the Amended and Restated RCA. Total amortization expense in the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 was $0.3 million and $0.5 million respectively, and is included in Interest Expense on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. Our total debt outstanding as of October 31, 2019 was $794.7 million, which included $6.3 million of current portion of long-term debt related to our term loan A under the Amended and Restated RCA and long-term debt of $788.4 million. The long-term debt consisted of $241.4 million related to our term loan A under the Amended and Restated RCA (amount is net of unamortized issuance costs of $0.8 million) and $547.0 million related to the revolving credit facility under the Amended and Restated RCA. RCA As of April 30, 2019, total debt outstanding was $478.8 million, which consisted of amounts due under our RCA. We had a revolving credit agreement (“RCA”) with a syndicated bank group led by Bank of America. The RCA consisted of a $1.1 billion five-year senior revolving credit facility payable March 1, 2021. Since there were no principal payments due until the end of the agreement in the year ended April 30, 2021, we had classified our entire debt obligation as long-term as of April 30, 2019.

Derivative Instruments and Hedg

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Note 16 Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities From time-to-time, we enter into forward exchange and interest rate swap contracts as a hedge against foreign currency asset and liability commitments, changes in interest rates and anticipated transaction exposures, including intercompany purchases. All derivatives are recognized as assets or liabilities and measured at fair value on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Derivatives that are not determined to be effective hedges are adjusted to fair value with a corresponding adjustment to earnings. We do not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Interest Rate Contracts As of October 31, 2019, we had total debt outstanding of $794.7 million, net of unamortized issuance costs of $0.8 million of which $795.5 million are variable rate loans outstanding under the Amended and Restated RCA, which approximated fair value. On August 7, 2019 we entered into a forward starting interest rate swap agreement, which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on our Amended and Restated RCA. Under the terms of the agreement, we pay a fixed rate of 1.400% and receive a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR from the counterparty which is reset every month for a three-year period ending August 15, 2022. As of October 31, 2019, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $100.0 million. On June 24, 2019 we entered into a forward starting interest rate swap agreement, which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on our Amended and Restated RCA. Under the terms of the agreement, we pay a fixed rate of 1.650% and receive a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR from the counterparty which is reset every month for a three-year period ending July 15, 2022. As of October 31, 2019, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $100.0 million. It is management’s intention that the notional amount of interest rate swaps be less than the variable rate loans outstanding during the life of the derivatives. On April 4, 2016, we entered into a forward starting interest rate swap agreement which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on a variable rate debt renewal on May 16, 2016. Under the terms of the agreement, which expired on May 15, 2019, we paid a fixed rate of 0.92% and receive a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR from the counterparty which was reset every month for a three-year period ending May 15, 2019. Prior to expiration, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $350.0 million. As of October 31, 2019 and April 30, 2019, the interest rate swap agreements maintained by us were designated as cash flow hedges as defined under ASC 815 “Derivatives and Hedging.” As a result, there was no impact on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps as they were fully offset by changes in the interest expense on the underlying variable rate debt instruments. We record the fair value of our interest rate swaps on a recurring basis using Level 2 inputs of quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets. The fair value of the interest rate swaps as of October 31, 2019 and April 30, 2019 was a deferred loss of $0.7 million and a deferred gain of $0.5 million, respectively. Based on the maturity dates of the contracts, the entire deferred loss as of October 31, 2019 was recorded within Other Long-Term Liabilities and the entire deferred gain as of April 30, 2019 was recorded within Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets. The pre-tax gains that were reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Interest Expense for the three months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018 were $0.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively. The pre-tax gains that were reclassified from Accumulated Other Compensation Loss into Interest Expense for the months ended were $ million and $ million, respectively. Foreign Currency Contracts We may enter into forward exchange contracts to manage our exposure on certain foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. The forward exchange contracts are marked to market through Foreign Exchange Transaction Losses in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and carried at their fair value in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are remeasured at spot rates in effect on the balance sheet date, with the effects of changes in spot rates reported in Foreign Exchange Transaction Losses in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. As of October 31, 2019, and April 30, 2019, we did not maintain any open forward exchange contracts. In addition, we did not maintain any open forward contracts during the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018.

Capital Stock and Changes in Ca

Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts [Abstract]
Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts	Note 17 Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts Share Repurchases The following table summarizes the shares repurchased of Class A Common Stock. Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Shares Repurchased 334,336 299,188 551,847 425,120 Average Price $ 44.87 $ 56.82 $ 45.30 $ 58.79 Dividends The following table summarizes the cash dividends paid during the six months ended October 31, 2019: Date of Declaration by Board of Directors Quarterly Cash Dividend Total Dividend Class of Common Stock Dividend Paid Date Shareholders of Record as of Date June 27, 2019 $0.34 per common share $19.2 million Class A and Class B July 24, 2019 July 10, 2019 September 26, 2019 $0.34 per common share $19.1 million Class A and Class B October 23, 2019 October 8, 2019 Changes in Common Stock The following is a summary of changes during the six months ended October 31, in shares of our common stock and common stock in treasury (shares in thousands): Changes in Common Stock A: 2019 2018 Number of shares, beginning of year 70,127 70,111 Common stock class conversions 22 14 Number of shares issued, end of period 70,149 70,125 Changes in Common Stock A in treasury: Number of shares held, beginning of year 22,634 21,853 Purchase of treasury shares 552 425 Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans - non-PSU Awards (63 ) (54 ) Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans - PSU Awards (43 ) (59 ) Restricted shares, forfeited — — Restricted shares issued from exercise of stock options (17 ) (224 ) Shares withheld for taxes 44 53 Other — 6 Number of shares held, end of period 23,107 22,000 Number of Common Stock A outstanding, end of period 47,042 48,125 Changes in Common Stock B: 2019 2018 Number of shares, beginning of year 13,055 13,071 Common stock class conversions (22 ) (14 ) Number of shares issued, end of period 13,033 13,057 Changes in Common Stock B in treasury: Number of shares held, beginning of year 3,918 3,918 Number of shares held, end of period 3,918 3,918 Number of Common Stock B outstanding, end of period 9,115 9,139

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 18 Commitments and Contingencies We are involved in routine litigation in the ordinary course of our business. A provision for litigation is accrued when information available to us indicates that it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. Significant judgment may be required to determine both the probability and estimates of loss. When the amount of the loss can only be estimated within a range, the most likely outcome within that range is accrued. If no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the minimum amount within the range is accrued. When uncertainties exist related to the probable outcome of litigation and/or the amount or range of loss, we do not record a liability, but disclose facts related to the nature of the contingency and possible losses if management considers the information to be material. Reserves for legal defense costs are recognized when incurred. The accruals for loss contingencies and legal costs are reviewed regularly and may be adjusted to reflect updated information on the status of litigation and advice of legal counsel. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of all pending litigation as of October 31, 2019, will not have a material effect upon our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position or Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

Basis of Presentation (Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Throughout this report, when we refer to “Wiley,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us,” we are referring to John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and all our subsidiaries, except where the context indicates otherwise. Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all the accounts of the Company and our subsidiaries. We have eliminated all intercompany transactions and balances in consolidation. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contain all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Condition, Results of Operations, Comprehensive Income and Cash Flows for the periods presented. Operating results for the interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full year. All amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts, and approximate due to rounding. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the most recent audited consolidated financial statements included in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2019 as filed with the SEC on July 1, 2019 (“2019 Form 10-K”). Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements were prepared in accordance with the interim reporting requirements of the SEC. As permitted under those rules, annual footnotes or other financial information that are normally required by U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted. The preparation of our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications	Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. The Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended October 31, 2018, includes a reclassification of $4.5 million, between Operating Activities within the net change in operating assets and liabilities and Investing Activities related to costs to fulfill a contract and product development spending. In addition, for the six months ended October 31, 2018, amortization expense related to costs to fulfill a contract of $1.2 million was reclassified from amortization of product development spending to other non-cash charges (credits) within Operating Activities.

Recent Accounting Standards (Po

Recent Accounting Standards (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Recent Accounting Standards [Abstract]
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02 “Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income,” which allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We adopted ASU 2018-02 on May 1, 2019. We did not elect to reclassify the income tax effects from comprehensive income to retained earnings for the stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Our policy for releasing the income tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive income is when the corresponding pretax accumulated other comprehensive income items are reclassified to earnings. Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities,” to simplify and improve the application and financial reporting of hedge accounting. Subsequently, in November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-1 6, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap (OIS) Rate as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes”. ASU 2017-12 Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)”. Subsequently, the FASB issued in March 2019, ASU 2019-01, “Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements”, in December 2018 ASU 2018-20, “Leases (Topic 842): Narrow Scope Improvements for Lessors”, and in July 2018 the FASB issued ASU 2018-11, “Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements” and ASU 2018-10, “Codification Improvements to Topic 842, Leases”. ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize a right-of-use asset (“ROU”) and lease liability for all leases with terms of more than 12 months and provide enhanced disclosures. Recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses depends on classification as a finance or operating lease. Similar modifications have been made to lessor accounting in-line with revenue recognition guidance. The new standard provides a number of optional practical expedients in transition. We elected the practical expedients to forgo a reassessment of (1) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, (2) the lease classification for any expired or existing leases, and (3) initial direct costs. We did not elect the practical expedient allowing the use-of-hindsight which would have required us to reassess the lease term of our leases based on all facts and circumstances through the effective date. In addition, we did not elect the practical expedient pertaining to land easements. In addition, the new standard provides as a practical expedient, certain policy elections for ongoing lease accounting which we elected at the date of adoption and included the following, (i) to not separate nonlease components from the associated lease component if certain conditions are met, and (ii) to not recognize ROU assets and lease liabilities for leases that qualify as short-term. A modified retrospective transition approach was required, applying the standard to all leases existing at the date of initial application. A company could choose to use either (1) its effective date or (2) the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements as of its date of initial application. We adopted the new standard on May 1, 2019 and used the effective date as the date of initial application. Accordingly, previously reported financial information was not updated, and the disclosures required under the new standard will not be provided for dates and periods before May 1, 2019. At adoption, we recognized operating lease liabilities of $178 million based on the present value of the remaining minimum rental payments for existing operating leases and ROU assets of $142 million on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. The difference between the ROU assets and operating lease liabilities represents the existing deferred rent liabilities, prepaid rent balances, and applicable restructuring liabilities, which were reclassified upon adoption to reduce the measurement of the ROU assets. The adoption of the standard did not have an impact on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity, Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income or Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow. See Note 5, “Operating Leases”, for further details on our operating leases.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Issued Accounting Standards Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software: Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That is a Service Contract In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, “Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That is a Service Contract.” ASU 2018-15 aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, and interim periods within that fiscal year, with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements. Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14, “Compensation-Retirement Benefits-Defined Benefit Plans-General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans.” ASU 2018-14 removes certain disclosures that are not considered cost beneficial, clarifies certain required disclosures and added additional disclosures. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. The amendments in ASU 2018-14 would need to be applied on a retrospective basis. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our disclosures. Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement.” ASU 2018-13 removes, modifies and added disclosures. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted. Certain disclosures in ASU 2018-13 would need to be applied on a retrospective basis and others on a prospective basis. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our disclosures. Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Intangibles–Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): “Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment”, which simplifies the measurement of a potential goodwill impairment charge by eliminating the requirement to calculate an implied fair value of the goodwill based on the fair value of a reporting unit’s other assets and liabilities. The new guidance eliminates the implied fair value method and instead measures a potential impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying value compared to its fair value. The impairment charge cannot exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted. Based on our most recent annual goodwill impairment test completed in the year ended April 30, 2019, we expect no impact upon adoption. Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” Subsequently, in May 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-05 - "Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Targeted Transition Relief”, in April 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-04, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments,” in November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-19, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses,” and in November 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-11, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses”. ASU 2016-13 requires entities to measure all expected credit losses for most financial assets held at the reporting date based on an expected loss model which includes historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Entities will now use forward-looking information to better form their credit loss estimates. ASU 2016-13 also requires enhanced disclosures to help financial statement users better understand significant estimates and judgments used in estimating credit losses, as well as the credit quality and underwriting standards of an entity’s portfolio. ASU 2016-13, ASU 2019-05, ASU 2019-04, ASU 2018-19, and ASU 2019-11 are effective for us on May 1, 2020, including interim periods within those fiscal periods, with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Acquisition (Tables)

Acquisition (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Consideration Transferred and Preliminary Allocation of Purchase Price	The following table summarizes the preliminary consideration transferred to acquire zyBooks and the preliminary allocation of the purchase price among the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Preliminary Allocation as of July 1, 2019 Total cash consideration transferred at the acquisition date $ 55,884 Assets: Current Assets 2,280 Technology, Property and Equipment, net 28 Intangible Assets, net 24,500 Goodwill 37,246 Total Assets $ 64,054 Liabilities: Current Liabilities 2,581 Deferred Income Tax Liabilities 5,589 Total Liabilities $ 8,170
Intangible Assets Acquired and Weighted-Average Useful Life	The following table summarizes the identifiable intangible assets acquired and their weighted-average useful life at the date of acquisition. Estimated Fair Value Weighted-Average Useful Life (in Years) Developed Technology $ 10,400 7 Customer Relationships 6,800 10 Content 4,400 10 Trademarks 2,900 10 Total $ 24,500

Revenue Recognition, Contract_2

Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers [Abstract]
Revenue from Contracts With Customers Disaggregated by Segment and Product Type	As previously announced, we changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas. See Note 10, “Segment Information,” for more details. The following table presents our revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type. Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Research Publishing & Platforms: Research Publishing $ 225,085 $ 219,710 $ 445,012 $ 436,424 Research Platforms 9,624 9,365 19,072 17,968 Total Research Publishing & Platforms 234,709 229,075 464,084 454,392 Academic & Professional Learning: Education Publishing 101,741 107,474 167,264 181,508 Professional Learning 75,984 82,196 155,319 164,586 Total Academic & Professional Learning 177,725 189,670 322,583 346,094 Education Services: Education Services 53,771 29,877 103,068 59,037 Total Education Services 53,771 29,877 103,068 59,037 Total Revenue $ 466,205 $ 448,622 $ 889,735 $ 859,523
Contract Asset and Liability Balances	The following table provides information about receivables and contract liabilities from contracts with customers. October 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 Increase/ (Decrease) Balances from contracts with customers: Accounts receivable, net $ 235,466 $ 294,867 $ (59,401 ) Contract liabilities (1) 248,653 507,365 (258,712 ) Contract liabilities (included in Other Long-Term Liabilities) $ 19,622 $ 10,722 $ 8,900 (1) The sales return reserve recorded in Contract Liabilities is $37.7 million and $25.9 million, as of October 31, 2019 and April 30, 2019, respectively.

Operating Leases (Tables)

Operating Leases (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Operating Leases [Abstract]
ROU Assets and Liabilities	For operating leases, the ROU assets and liabilities are presented in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as follows: October 31, 2019 Operating Lease Right-of-Use Assets $ 145,886 Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities 18,409 Operating Lease Liabilities, non-current $ 164,622
Total Net Lease Costs	Our total net lease costs are as follows: Three Months Ended October 31, 2019 Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 Operating lease cost $ 6,199 $ 13,060 Variable lease cost 915 2,118 Sublease income 184 (339 ) Total net lease cost $ 7,298 $ 14,839
Other Supplemental Information	Other supplemental information includes the following: Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Lease Term (Years) Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 Operating leases 10 Weighted-average discount rate: Operating leases 5.91 % Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 14,716
Reconciliation of Undiscounted Cash Flows to Operating Lease Liabilities	The table below reconciles the undiscounted cash flows for the first five years and total of the remaining years to the operating lease liabilities recorded in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as of October 31, 2019 : Fiscal Year Operating Lease Liabilities 2020 (remaining 6 months) $ 16,758 2021 28,073 2022 25,085 2023 22,683 2024 21,791 Thereafter 134,823 Total undiscounted lease payments 249,213 Less: Imputed interest 66,182 Present Value of Minimum Lease Payments 183,031 Less: Current portion 18,409 Noncurrent portion $ 164,622

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Restricted Stock Data for Awards Granted	The following table summarizes restricted stock awards we granted (shares in thousands): Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 Restricted Stock: Awards granted 716 397 Weighted average fair value of grant $ 44.75 $ 63.33

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Component, Net of Tax	Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by component, net of tax, for the three and six months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: Foreign Currency Translation Unamortized Retirement Costs Interest Rate Swaps Total Balance at July 31, 2019 $ (347,646 ) $ (187,889 ) $ (489 ) $ (536,024 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 38,319 (7,960 ) (481 ) 29,878 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 1,384 (264 ) 1,120 Total other comprehensive income (loss) 38,319 (6,576 ) (745 ) 30,998 Balance at October 31, 2019 $ (309,327 ) $ (194,465 ) $ (1,234 ) $ (505,026 ) Balance at April 30, 2019 $ (312,107 ) $ (196,057 ) $ (574 ) $ (508,738 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 2,780 (830 ) (153 ) 1,797 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 2,422 (507 ) 1,915 Total other comprehensive income (loss) 2,780 1,592 (660 ) 3,712 Balance at October 31, 2019 $ (309,327 ) $ (194,465 ) $ (1,234 ) $ (505,026 ) Foreign Currency Translation Unamortized Retirement Costs Interest Rate Swaps Total Balance at July 31, 2018 $ (291,898 ) $ (182,215 ) $ 2,367 $ (471,746 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (20,424 ) 3,273 543 (16,608 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 1,114 (1,324 ) (210 ) Total other comprehensive income (loss) (20,424 ) 4,387 (781 ) (16,818 ) Balance at October 31, 2018 $ (312,322 ) $ (177,828 ) $ 1,586 $ (488,564 ) Balance at April 30, 2018 $ (251,573 ) $ (191,026 ) $ 3,019 $ (439,580 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (60,749 ) 10,993 613 (49,143 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 2,205 (2,046 ) 159 Total other comprehensive income (loss) (60,749 ) 13,198 (1,433 ) (48,984 ) Balance at October 31, 2018 $ (312,322 ) $ (177,828 ) $ 1,586 $ (488,564 )

Reconciliation of Weighted Av_2

Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Shares used in Computation of Earnings Per Share	A reconciliation of the shares used in the computation of earnings per share follows: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Weighted average shares outstanding 56,339 57,426 56,451 57,451 Less: Unvested restricted shares (13 ) (47 ) (20 ) (59 ) Shares used for basic earnings per share 56,326 57,379 56,431 57,392 Dilutive effect of stock options and other stock awards 338 491 360 563 Shares used for diluted earnings per share 56,664 57,870 56,791 57,955

Restructuring and Related Cha_2

Restructuring and Related Charges (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Business Optimization Program [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Pre-tax Restructuring Charges	The following tables summarize the pre-tax restructuring charges related to this program: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2019 Charges (Credits) by Segment: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 29 $ 2,665 Academic & Professional Learning 765 3,542 Education Services (475 ) 1,717 Corporate Expenses 2,835 6,100 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 3,154 $ 14,024 Charges by Activity: Severance and termination benefits $ 578 $ 11,287 Operating lease right-of-use asset impairment — 161 Facility related charges 1,240 1,240 Other Activities 1,336 1,336 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 3,154 $ 14,024
Activity for Restructuring Program Liability	The following table summarizes the activity for the Business Optimization Program liability for the six months ended October 31, 2019 : April 30, 2019 Charges Payments Foreign Translation & Other Adjustments October 31, 2019 Severance and termination benefits $ — $ 11,287 $ (2,760 ) $ (168 ) $ 8,359 Other Activities — 1,336 — (365 ) 971 Total $ — $ 12,623 $ (2,760 ) $ (533 ) $ 9,330
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Pre-tax Restructuring Charges	The following tables summarize the pre-tax restructuring charges related to this program: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, Total Charges 2019 2018 (1) 2019 2018 (1) Incurred to Date Charges (Credits) by Segment: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 697 $ 2,282 $ 681 $ 1,302 $ 27,225 Academic & Professional Learning 35 2,194 63 1,477 42,902 Education Services — 310 (103 ) 102 3,764 Corporate Expenses 115 5,210 71 1,029 96,449 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 847 $ 9,996 $ 712 $ 3,910 $ 170,340 Charges by Activity: Severance and termination benefits $ 847 $ 8,672 $ 497 $ 2,894 $ 116,756 Consulting and Contract Termination Costs — 90 — 225 21,155 Other Activities — 1,234 215 791 32,429 Total Restructuring and Related Charges $ 847 $ 9,996 $ 712 $ 3,910 $ 170,340 (1) As previously announced, we have changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas. See Note 10, “Segment Information,” for more details.
Activity for Restructuring Program Liability	The following table summarizes the activity for the Restructuring and Reinvestment Program liability for the six months ended October 31, 2019 : April 30, 2019 Charges Payments Adoption of New Lease Standard (1) Foreign Translation & Other Adjustments October 31, 2019 Severance and termination benefits $ 4,887 $ 497 $ (3,125 ) $ — $ 203 $ 2,462 Consulting and Contract Termination Costs 303 — — — — 303 Other Activities 2,544 — — (2,258 ) (34 ) 252 Total $ 7,734 $ 497 $ (3,125 ) $ (2,258 ) $ 169 $ 3,017 (1) Refer to Note 2, “Recent Accounting Standards,” and Note 5, “Operating Leases” for more information related to the adoption of the new lease standard.

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment information is as follows: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Revenue Research Publishing & Platforms $ 234,709 $ 229,075 $ 464,084 $ 454,392 Academic & Professional Learning 177,725 189,670 322,583 346,094 Education Services 53,771 29,877 103,068 59,037 Total Revenue $ 466,205 $ 448,622 $ 889,735 $ 859,523 Contribution to Profit: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 63,291 $ 59,210 $ 118,937 $ 116,527 Academic & Professional Learning 35,050 47,078 39,961 68,845 Education Services 2,583 (867 ) (4,616 ) (5,886 ) Total Contribution to Profit (1) $ 100,924 $ 105,421 $ 154,282 $ 179,486 Corporate Expenses (37,533 ) (47,946 ) (86,332 ) (85,871 ) Operating Income (1) $ 63,391 $ 57,475 $ 67,950 $ 93,615 Adjusted Contribution to Profit: (1) Research Publishing & Platforms $ 64,017 $ 61,492 $ 122,283 $ 117,829 Academic & Professional Learning 35,850 49,272 43,566 70,322 Education Services 2,108 (557 ) (3,002 ) (5,784 ) Total Adjusted Contribution to Profit $ 101,975 $ 110,207 $ 162,847 $ 182,367 Adjusted Corporate Expenses (34,583 ) (42,736 ) (80,161 ) (84,842 ) Total Adjusted Operating Income $ 67,392 $ 67,471 $ 82,686 $ 97,525 Depreciation and Amortization: Research Publishing & Platforms $ 17,037 $ 15,422 $ 34,190 $ 30,787 Academic & Professional Learning 17,349 17,473 33,873 35,050 Education Services 5,522 3,045 11,020 6,512 Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 39,908 $ 35,940 $ 79,083 $ 72,349 Corporate Depreciation and Amortization 2,730 3,712 5,774 7,474 Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 42,638 $ 39,652 $ 84,857 $ 79,823 Adjusted EBITDA: (2) Research Publishing & Platforms $ 81,054 $ 76,914 $ 156,473 $ 148,616 Academic & Professional Learning 53,199 66,745 77,439 105,372 Education Services 7,630 2,488 8,018 728 Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA $ 141,883 $ 146,147 $ 241,930 $ 254,716 Corporate Adjusted EBITDA (31,853 ) (39,024 ) (74,387 ) (77,368 ) Total Adjusted EBITDA $ 110,030 $ 107,123 $ 167,543 $ 177,348 (1) Adjusted Contribution to Profit is Contribution to Profit adjusted for restructuring charges (credits). See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for these charges (credits) by segment. (2) Adjusted EBITDA is Adjusted Contribution to Profit with depreciation and amortization added back.
Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA	The following table shows a reconciliation of GAAP net income to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net Income $ 44,690 $ 43,784 $ 48,314 $ 70,079 Interest expense 6,787 3,608 12,864 6,404 Provision for income taxes 11,783 12,538 12,126 20,324 Depreciation and amortization 42,638 39,652 84,857 79,823 Non-GAAP EBITDA $ 105,898 $ 99,582 $ 158,161 $ 176,630 Restructuring and related charges 4,001 9,996 14,736 3,910 Foreign exchange transaction losses 2,668 54 16 1,783 Interest and other income (2,537 ) (2,509 ) (5,370 ) (4,975 ) Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA $ 110,030 $ 107,123 $ 167,543 $ 177,348

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Inventories [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories, net were as follows: October 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 Finished Goods $ 36,258 $ 33,736 Work-in-Process 2,637 2,094 Paper and Other Materials 344 373 $ 39,239 $ 36,203 Inventory Value of Estimated Sales Returns 9,889 3,739 LIFO Reserve (4,096 ) (4,360 ) Total Inventories $ 45,032 $ 35,582

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Activity in Goodwill by Segment	The following table summarizes the activity in goodwill by segment as of October 31, 2019: April 30, 2019 Acquisitions (1) Foreign Translation Adjustment October 31, 2019 Research Publishing & Platforms $ 438,511 $ 844 $ 640 $ 439,995 Academic & Professional Learning 458,145 45,752 134 504,031 Education Services 199,010 161 — 199,171 Total $ 1,095,666 $ 46,757 $ 774 $ 1,143,197 (1) Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions,” for more information related to the acquisitions that occurred in the six months ended October 31, 2019.
Intangible Assets	Identifiable intangible assets, net consisted of the following: October 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net: Content and Publishing Rights (1) $ 384,364 $ 389,172 Customer Relationships (1) 245,822 245,830 Brands and Trademarks (1) 11,753 12,993 Covenants not to Compete 345 445 Developed Technology (1) 17,989 — Total 660,273 648,440 Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives: Brands and Trademarks 134,005 130,909 Content and Publishing Rights 86,335 86,223 Total 220,340 217,132 Total Intangible Assets, Net $ 880,613 $ 865,572 (1) Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions,” for more information related to the acquisitions that occurred in the six months ended October 31, 2019.

Retirement Plans (Tables)

Retirement Plans (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Retirement Plans [Abstract]
Components of Net Periodic Pension Expense (Income) for Defined Benefit Plans	The components of net pension expense (income) for our global defined benefit plans were as follows: Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Service cost $ 1,093 $ 229 $ 1,317 $ 462 Interest cost 6,350 6,169 12,184 12,381 Expected return on plan assets (9,886 ) (9,720 ) (19,945 ) (19,622 ) Net amortization of prior service cost (19 ) (24 ) (38 ) (48 ) Unrecognized net actuarial loss 1,581 1,474 3,181 2,908 Net pension income $ (881 ) $ (1,872 ) $ (3,301 ) $ (3,919 )

Capital Stock and Changes in _2

Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019
Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts [Abstract]
Summary of Shares Repurchased	The following table summarizes the shares repurchased of Class A Common Stock. Three Months Ended October 31, Six Months Ended October 31, 2019 2018 2019 2018 Shares Repurchased 334,336 299,188 551,847 425,120 Average Price $ 44.87 $ 56.82 $ 45.30 $ 58.79
Summary of Cash Dividends	The following table summarizes the cash dividends paid during the six months ended October 31, 2019: Date of Declaration by Board of Directors Quarterly Cash Dividend Total Dividend Class of Common Stock Dividend Paid Date Shareholders of Record as of Date June 27, 2019 $0.34 per common share $19.2 million Class A and Class B July 24, 2019 July 10, 2019 September 26, 2019 $0.34 per common share $19.1 million Class A and Class B October 23, 2019 October 8, 2019
Summary of Changes of Common Stock and Common Stock in Treasury	The following is a summary of changes during the six months ended October 31, in shares of our common stock and common stock in treasury (shares in thousands): Changes in Common Stock A: 2019 2018 Number of shares, beginning of year 70,127 70,111 Common stock class conversions 22 14 Number of shares issued, end of period 70,149 70,125 Changes in Common Stock A in treasury: Number of shares held, beginning of year 22,634 21,853 Purchase of treasury shares 552 425 Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans - non-PSU Awards (63 ) (54 ) Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans - PSU Awards (43 ) (59 ) Restricted shares, forfeited — — Restricted shares issued from exercise of stock options (17 ) (224 ) Shares withheld for taxes 44 53 Other — 6 Number of shares held, end of period 23,107 22,000 Number of Common Stock A outstanding, end of period 47,042 48,125 Changes in Common Stock B: 2019 2018 Number of shares, beginning of year 13,055 13,071 Common stock class conversions (22 ) (14 ) Number of shares issued, end of period 13,033 13,057 Changes in Common Stock B in treasury: Number of shares held, beginning of year 3,918 3,918 Number of shares held, end of period 3,918 3,918 Number of Common Stock B outstanding, end of period 9,115 9,139

Basis of Presentation (Details)

Basis of Presentation (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)
Reclassification for Costs to Fulfill Contract and Product Development Spending [Member]
Prior Period Adjustments [Abstract]
Prior period reclassification adjustment	$ 4.5
Reclassification for Amortization Expense Related to Costs to Fulfill Contract [Member]
Prior Period Adjustments [Abstract]
Prior period reclassification adjustment	$ 1.2

Recent Accounting Standards (De

Recent Accounting Standards (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards [Abstract]
Operating lease liabilities	$ 183,031
ROU assets	$ 145,886	$ 0
ASU 2016-02 [Member]
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards [Abstract]
Operating lease liabilities		178,000
ROU assets		$ 142,000

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Jul. 01, 2019USD ($)	Nov. 01, 2018USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2019USD ($)Business	Jul. 31, 2019Business	Oct. 31, 2019USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Apr. 30, 2019USD ($)
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Fair value of cash consideration transferred, net of cash acquired					$ 74,169	$ 0
Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill			$ 1,143,197		1,143,197		$ 1,095,666
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Goodwill			1,143,197		1,143,197		1,095,666
Research Publishing & Platforms [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill			439,995		439,995		438,511
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Goodwill			439,995		439,995		438,511
Academic and Professional Learning [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill			504,031		504,031		458,145
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Goodwill			504,031		504,031		$ 458,145
zybooks [Member]
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Total cash consideration transferred at the acquisition date	$ 55,884
Assets [Abstract]
Current Assets	2,280
Technology, Property and Equipment, net	28
Intangible Assets, net	24,500
Goodwill	37,246
Total Assets	64,054
Liabilities [Abstract]
Current Liabilities	2,581
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities	5,589
Total Liabilities	8,170
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired	24,500
Goodwill	37,246
zybooks [Member] | Academic and Professional Learning [Member]
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Fair value of consideration transferred	57,000
Fair value of additional consideration to be paid after the acquisition date	1,100
Cash acquired	1,800
Fair value of cash consideration transferred, net of cash acquired	54,300
zybooks [Member] | Developed Technology [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired	$ 10,400
Weighted-average useful life	7 years
zybooks [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired	$ 6,800
Weighted-average useful life	10 years
zybooks [Member] | Content [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired	$ 4,400
Weighted-average useful life	10 years
zybooks [Member] | Trademarks [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired	$ 2,900
Weighted-average useful life	10 years
Other Acquisitions [Member]
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Fair value of cash consideration transferred, net of cash acquired					19,900
Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill			9,400		9,400
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired					16,200
Goodwill			$ 9,400		$ 9,400
Other Acquisitions [Member] | Research Publishing & Platforms [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Number of immaterial businesses acquired | Business				2
Other Acquisitions [Member] | Academic and Professional Learning [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Number of immaterial businesses acquired | Business			1
The Learning House, Inc. [Member]
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Fair value of consideration transferred		$ 201,300
Cash acquired		10,300
Fair value of cash consideration transferred, net of cash acquired		190,400
Total cash consideration transferred at the acquisition date		200,700
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Percentage of ownership interest acquired						100.00%
The Learning House, Inc. [Member] | Warrants [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Term of warrants			3 years		3 years
Issuance of warrants		$ 600
The Learning House, Inc. [Member] | Common Stock Class A [Member] | Warrants [Member]
Identifiable intangible assets acquired and weighted-average useful life [Abstract]
Number of shares of common stock warrant holders are allowed to purchase (in shares) | shares						400,000
Exercise price per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares						$ 90

Revenue Recognition, Contract_3

Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers, Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 466,205	$ 448,622	$ 889,735	$ 859,523
Operating Segments [Member] | Research Publishing & Platforms [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	234,709	229,075	464,084	454,392
Operating Segments [Member] | Research Publishing & Platforms [Member] | Research Publishing [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	225,085	219,710	445,012	436,424
Operating Segments [Member] | Research Publishing & Platforms [Member] | Research Platforms [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	9,624	9,365	19,072	17,968
Operating Segments [Member] | Academic and Professional Learning [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	177,725	189,670	322,583	346,094
Operating Segments [Member] | Academic and Professional Learning [Member] | Education Publishing [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	101,741	107,474	167,264	181,508
Operating Segments [Member] | Academic and Professional Learning [Member] | Professional Learning [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	75,984	82,196	155,319	164,586
Operating Segments [Member] | Education Services [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	53,771	29,877	103,068	59,037
Operating Segments [Member] | Education Services [Member] | Education Services [Member]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 53,771	$ 29,877	$ 103,068	$ 59,037

Revenue Recognition, Contract_4

Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers, Accounts Receivable, net and Contract Liability Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
		Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Balances from contracts with customers [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, net		$ 235,466	$ 235,466	$ 294,867
Contract liabilities	[1]	248,653	248,653	507,365
Contract liabilities (included in Other Long-Term Liabilities)		19,622	19,622	10,722
Increase/(decrease) [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, net			(59,401)
Contract liabilities	[1]		(258,712)
Contract liability (Deferred revenue) (included in Other Long-Term Liabilities)			8,900
Sales return reserve recorded in contract liability		37,700	37,700	$ 25,900
Revenue recognized from beginning contract liability		$ 184,600	$ 378,900
[1]	The sales return reserve recorded in Contract Liabilities is $37.7 million and $25.9 million, as of October 31, 2019 and April 30, 2019, respectively.

Revenue Recognition, Contract_5

Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers, Remaining Performance Obligations, Assets Recognized for the Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Remaining Performance Obligations [Abstract]
Remaining performance obligations	$ 268,300		$ 268,300
Assets Recognized for the Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract [Abstract]
Costs capitalized	10,300		10,300
Amortization	1,100	$ 400	2,100	$ 1,200
Cost of revenue [Abstract]
Operating and administrative expenses	240,380	236,207	490,550	476,633
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2019-11-01
Remaining Performance Obligations [Abstract]
Remaining performance obligations	$ 211,000		$ 211,000
Expected timing of satisfaction, period	12 months		12 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-11-01
Remaining Performance Obligations [Abstract]
Remaining performance obligations	$ 19,600		$ 19,600
Expected timing of satisfaction, period
Shipping and Handling [Member]
Cost of revenue [Abstract]
Operating and administrative expenses	$ 7,600	$ 8,600	$ 15,000	$ 16,500

Operating Leases (Details)

Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
ROU Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Operating Lease Right-Of-Use Assets	$ 145,886	$ 145,886	$ 0
Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities	18,409	18,409	0
Operating Lease Liabilities, non-current	164,622	164,622	0
Increase (decrease) in right of use assets		12,100
Increase (decrease) in operating lease liabilities		13,700
Net Lease Costs [Abstract]
Operating lease cost	6,199	13,060
Variable lease cost	915	2,118
Sublease income	184	(339)
Total net lease cost	$ 7,298	$ 14,839
Other Supplemental Information [Abstract]
Weighted-average remaining contractual lease term, operating leases	10 years	10 years
Weighted-average discount rate, operating leases	5.91%	5.91%
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities [Abstract]
Operating cash flows from operating leases		$ 14,716
Reconciliation of Undiscounted Cash Flows to Operating Lease Liabilities [Abstract]
2020 (remaining 6 months)	$ 16,758	16,758
2021	28,073	28,073
2022	25,085	25,085
2023	22,683	22,683
2024	21,791	21,791
Thereafter	134,823	134,823
Total undiscounted lease payments	249,213	249,213
Less: Imputed interest	66,182	66,182
Present value of minimum lease payments	183,031	183,031
Less: Current portion	18,409	18,409	0
Noncurrent portion	$ 164,622	$ 164,622	$ 0

Stock-Based Compensation (Detai

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Stock-based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-based compensation expense	$ 5.7	$ 5	$ 10.3	$ 8.9
Restricted Stock [Member]
Restricted stock data for awards granted by the Company [Abstract]
Awards granted (in shares)			716	397
Weighted average fair value of grant (in dollars per share)	$ 44.75	$ 63.33	$ 44.75	$ 63.33
Performance-based Stock Awards [Member]
Stock-based Compensation [Abstract]
Period for achievement of performance-based targets			3 years

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	$ 1,132,006	$ 1,174,008	$ 1,181,347	$ 1,190,557
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	29,878	(16,608)	1,797	(49,143)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	1,120	(210)	1,915	159
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	30,998	(16,818)	3,712	(48,984)
Balance	1,178,996	1,169,392	1,178,996	1,169,392
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(536,024)	(471,746)	(508,738)	(439,580)
Balance	(505,026)	(488,564)	(505,026)	(488,564)
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(347,646)	(291,898)	(312,107)	(251,573)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	38,319	(20,424)	2,780	(60,749)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0	0	0
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	38,319	(20,424)	2,780	(60,749)
Balance	(309,327)	(312,322)	(309,327)	(312,322)
Unamortized Retirement Costs [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(187,889)	(182,215)	(196,057)	(191,026)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(7,960)	3,273	(830)	10,993
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	1,384	1,114	2,422	2,205
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(6,576)	4,387	1,592	13,198
Balance	(194,465)	(177,828)	(194,465)	(177,828)
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(489)	2,367	(574)	3,019
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(481)	543	(153)	613
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(264)	(1,324)	(507)	(2,046)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(745)	(781)	(660)	(1,433)
Balance	$ (1,234)	$ 1,586	$ (1,234)	$ 1,586

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_4

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Amortization from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Pension expense	$ (881)	$ (1,872)	$ (3,301)	$ (3,919)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]
Amortization from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Pension expense	$ 1,700	$ 1,400	$ 3,000	$ 2,800

Reconciliation of Weighted Av_3

Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Details) - shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding [Abstract]
Weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	56,339,000	57,426,000	56,451,000	57,451,000
Less: Unvested restricted shares (in shares)	(13,000)	(47,000)	(20,000)	(59,000)
Shares used for basic earnings per share (in shares)	56,326,000	57,379,000	56,431,000	57,392,000
Dilutive effect of stock options and other stock awards (in shares)	338,000	491,000	360,000	563,000
Shares used for diluted earnings per share (in shares)	56,664,000	57,870,000	56,791,000	57,955,000
Stock Options [Member] | Class A Common [Member]
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding and Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted EPS calculation (in shares)	212,094	157,167	212,094	157,167
Warrants [Member]
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding and Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Warrants issued during period (in shares)		0		0
Warrants [Member] | Class A Common [Member]
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding and Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted EPS calculation (in shares)	515,114		515,114
Restricted Stock [Member]
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding and Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted EPS calculation (in shares)	0	0	0	0

Restructuring and Related Cha_3

Restructuring and Related Charges, Pre-tax Restructuring (Credits) Charges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018		Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	$ 4,001	$ 9,996		$ 14,736	$ 3,910
Business Optimization Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	3,154			14,024
Business Optimization Program [Member] | Severance and Termination Benefits [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	578			11,287
Business Optimization Program [Member] | Facility Related Charges [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	1,240			1,240
Business Optimization Program [Member] | Other Activities [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	1,336			1,336
Business Optimization Program [Member] | Operating Lease Right-of-use Asset Impairment [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	0			161
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	847	9,996	[1]	712	3,910	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	170,340			170,340
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Severance and Termination Benefits [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	847	8,672	[1]	497	2,894	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	116,756			116,756
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Consulting and Contract Termination Costs [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	0	90	[1]	0	225	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	21,155			21,155
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Other Activities [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	0	1,234	[1]	215	791	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	32,429			32,429
Research Publishing & Platforms [Member] | Business Optimization Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	29			2,665
Research Publishing & Platforms [Member] | Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	697	2,282	[1]	681	1,302	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	27,225			27,225
Academic & Professional Learning [Member] | Business Optimization Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	765			3,542
Academic & Professional Learning [Member] | Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	35	2,194	[1]	63	1,477	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	42,902			42,902
Education Services [Member] | Business Optimization Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	(475)			1,717
Education Services [Member] | Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	0	310	[1]	(103)	102	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	3,764			3,764
Corporate Expenses [Member] | Business Optimization Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	2,835			6,100
Corporate Expenses [Member] | Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Summary of pre-tax restructuring (credits) charges [Abstract]
Restructuring and related charges	115	$ 5,210	[1]	71	$ 1,029	[1]
Restructuring and related charges incurred to date	$ 96,449			$ 96,449
[1]	As previously announced, we have changed our segment reporting structure to align with our strategic focus areas. See Note 10, “Segment Information,” for more details.

Restructuring and Related Cha_4

Restructuring and Related Charges, Activity for Restructuring and Reinvestment Program Liability (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019USD ($)
Business Optimization Program [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	$ 0
Charges	12,623
Payments	(2,760)
Foreign translation & other adjustments	(533)
Restructuring liability, end of period	9,330
Business Optimization Program [Member] | Severance and Termination Benefits [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	0
Charges	11,287
Payments	(2,760)
Foreign translation & other adjustments	(168)
Restructuring liability, end of period	8,359
Business Optimization Program [Member] | Other Activities [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	0
Charges	1,336
Payments	0
Foreign translation & other adjustments	(365)
Restructuring liability, end of period	971
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	7,734
Charges	497
Payments	(3,125)
Adoption of new lease standard	(2,258)	[1]
Foreign translation & other adjustments	169
Restructuring liability, end of period	3,017
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Severance and Termination Benefits [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	4,887
Charges	497
Payments	(3,125)
Adoption of new lease standard	0	[1]
Foreign translation & other adjustments	203
Restructuring liability, end of period	2,462
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Consulting and Contract Termination Costs [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	303
Charges	0
Payments	0
Adoption of new lease standard	0	[1]
Foreign translation & other adjustments	0
Restructuring liability, end of period	303
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Other Activities [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, beginning of period	2,544
Charges	0
Payments	0
Adoption of new lease standard	(2,258)	[1]
Foreign translation & other adjustments	(34)
Restructuring liability, end of period	252
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program [Member] | Other Activities [Member] | Other Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Activity for Restructuring and Related Charges Liability [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability, end of period	$ 300
[1]	Refer to Note 2, “Recent Accounting Standards,” and Note 5, “Operating Leases” for more information related to the adoption of the new lease standard.

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
		Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Segment Information [Abstract]
Revenue		$ 466,205	$ 448,622	$ 889,735	$ 859,523
Contribution to Profit	[1]	100,924	105,421	154,282	179,486
Corporate Expenses		(37,533)	(47,946)	(86,332)	(85,871)
Operating Income	[1]	63,391	57,475	67,950	93,615
Adjusted Contribution to Profit	[1]	101,975	110,207	162,847	182,367
Adjusted Corporate Expenses	[1]	(34,583)	(42,736)	(80,161)	(84,842)
Adjusted Operating Income	[1]	67,392	67,471	82,686	97,525
Depreciation and Amortization		42,638	39,652	84,857	79,823
Adjusted EBITDA	[2]	110,030	107,123	167,543	177,348
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Information [Abstract]
Depreciation and Amortization		39,908	35,940	79,083	72,349
Adjusted EBITDA	[2]	141,883	146,147	241,930	254,716
Operating Segments [Member] | Research Publishing & Platforms [Member]
Segment Information [Abstract]
Revenue		234,709	229,075	464,084	454,392
Contribution to Profit		63,291	59,210	118,937	116,527
Adjusted Contribution to Profit	[1]	64,017	61,492	122,283	117,829
Depreciation and Amortization		17,037	15,422	34,190	30,787
Adjusted EBITDA	[2]	81,054	76,914	156,473	148,616
Operating Segments [Member] | Academic & Professional Learning [Member]
Segment Information [Abstract]
Revenue		177,725	189,670	322,583	346,094
Contribution to Profit		35,050	47,078	39,961	68,845
Adjusted Contribution to Profit	[1]	35,850	49,272	43,566	70,322
Depreciation and Amortization		17,349	17,473	33,873	35,050
Adjusted EBITDA	[2]	53,199	66,745	77,439	105,372
Operating Segments [Member] | Education Services [Member]
Segment Information [Abstract]
Revenue		53,771	29,877	103,068	59,037
Contribution to Profit		2,583	(867)	(4,616)	(5,886)
Adjusted Contribution to Profit	[1]	2,108	(557)	(3,002)	(5,784)
Depreciation and Amortization		5,522	3,045	11,020	6,512
Adjusted EBITDA	[2]	7,630	2,488	8,018	728
Corporate [Member]
Segment Information [Abstract]
Depreciation and Amortization		2,730	3,712	5,774	7,474
Adjusted EBITDA	[2]	$ (31,853)	$ (39,024)	$ (74,387)	$ (77,368)
[1]	Adjusted Contribution to Profit is Contribution to Profit adjusted for restructuring charges (credits). See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for these charges (credits) by segment.Adjusted EBITDA is Adjusted Contribution to Profit with depreciation and amortization added back.
[2]	Adjusted EBITDA is Adjusted Contribution to Profit with depreciation and amortization added back.

Segment Information, Reconcilia

Segment Information, Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
		Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA [Abstract]
Net Income		$ 44,690	$ 43,784	$ 48,314	$ 70,079
Interest Expense		6,787	3,608	12,864	6,404
Provision for Income Taxes		11,783	12,538	12,126	20,324
Depreciation and Amortization		42,638	39,652	84,857	79,823
Non-GAAP EBITDA		105,898	99,582	158,161	176,630
Restructuring and related charges		4,001	9,996	14,736	3,910
Foreign Exchange Transaction Losses		2,668	54	16	1,783
Interest and other income		(2,537)	(2,509)	(5,370)	(4,975)
Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA	[1]	$ 110,030	$ 107,123	$ 167,543	$ 177,348
[1]	Adjusted EBITDA is Adjusted Contribution to Profit with depreciation and amortization added back.

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Inventories [Abstract]
Finished goods	$ 36,258	$ 33,736
Work-in-process	2,637	2,094
Paper and other materials	344	373
Gross inventory	39,239	36,203
Inventory value of estimated sales returns	9,889	3,739
LIFO reserve	(4,096)	(4,360)
Total inventories	$ 45,032	$ 35,582

Goodwill and Intangible Assets,

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 1,095,666
Acquisitions	46,757	[1]
Foreign translation adjustment	774
Ending balance	1,143,197
Research Publishing & Platforms [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	438,511
Acquisitions	844	[1]
Foreign translation adjustment	640
Ending balance	439,995
Academic and Professional Learning [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	458,145
Acquisitions	45,752	[1]
Foreign translation adjustment	134
Ending balance	504,031
Education Services [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	199,010
Acquisitions	161	[1]
Foreign translation adjustment	0
Ending balance	$ 199,171
[1]	Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions,” for more information related to the acquisitions that occurred in the six months ended October 31, 2019.

Goodwill and Intangible Asset_2

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Oct. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net [Abstract]
Total		$ 660,273	$ 648,440
Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives [Abstract]
Total		220,340	217,132
Intangible assets (excluding goodwill) [Abstract]
Total Intangible Assets, Net		880,613	865,572
Brands and Trademarks [Member]
Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives [Abstract]
Total		134,005	130,909
Content and Publishing Rights [Member]
Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives [Abstract]
Total		86,335	86,223
Content and Publishing Rights [Member]
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net [Abstract]
Total	[1]	384,364	389,172
Customer Relationships [Member]
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net [Abstract]
Total	[1]	245,822	245,830
Brands and Trademarks [Member]
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net [Abstract]
Total	[1]	11,753	12,993
Covenants Not to Compete [Member]
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net [Abstract]
Total		345	445
Developed Technology [Member]
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives, net [Abstract]
Total	[1]	$ 17,989	$ 0
[1]	Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions,” for more information related to the acquisitions that occurred in the six months ended October 31, 2019.

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Effective income tax rate [Abstract]
Effective tax rate as reported	20.90%	22.30%	20.10%	22.50%
Effective tax rate excluding the impact of certain discreet items	21.50%		21.60%

Retirement Plans (Details)

Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Defined benefit plans, net pension expense (income) [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 1,093	$ 229	$ 1,317	$ 462
Interest cost	6,350	6,169	12,184	12,381
Expected return on plan assets	(9,886)	(9,720)	(19,945)	(19,622)
Net amortization of prior service cost	(19)	(24)	(38)	(48)
Unrecognized net actuarial loss	1,581	1,474	3,181	2,908
Net pension income	(881)	(1,872)	(3,301)	(3,919)
Employer defined benefit pension plan contributions	3,300	3,500	8,000	7,100
Expense for employer defined contribution plans	$ 3,100	$ 2,800	$ 7,400	$ 7,300

Debt and Available Credit Fac_2

Debt and Available Credit Facilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2019	May 30, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit agreement issuance costs capitalized	$ 800	$ 800
Long-term debt	794,700	794,700
Short-term portion of long-term debt	6,250	6,250		$ 0
Long-term debt, non-current	788,360	788,360		478,790
Unamortized debt issuance costs	800	800
Amended and Extended Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit agreement issuance costs capitalized	5,200	5,200
Unamortized debt issuance costs	5,200	5,200
Amortization expense of the lender and non-lender fees in interest expense	300	$ 500
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Term of credit facility		5 years
Aggregate principal amount			$ 1,250,000	1,100,000
Credit agreement issuance costs capitalized	4,300	$ 4,300
Unamortized debt issuance costs	4,300	$ 4,300
Outstanding borrowings under revolving credit facilities				$ 478,800
Line of credit facility, due date		Mar. 1, 2021
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Amended and Extended Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit agreement issuance costs capitalized	4,000	$ 4,000
Long-term debt, non-current	547,000	547,000
Unamortized debt issuance costs	4,000	4,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Optional credit limit increase available on request	500,000	500,000
Minimum increments in which optional credit limit increase may be requested	50,000	$ 50,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility fee percentage		0.15%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility fee percentage		0.25%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | LIBOR [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin		0.98%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | LIBOR [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin		1.50%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin		0.00%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin		0.50%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | Federal Funds Effective Rate [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Margin rate over reference rate used in determining base rate		0.50%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Syndicate Bank Group led by Bank of America [Member] | Eurocurrency Rate [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Margin rate over reference rate used in determining base rate		1.00%
Term Loan A Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Term of credit facility		5 years
Credit agreement face amount			$ 250,000
Credit agreement issuance costs capitalized	900	$ 900
Short-term portion of long-term debt	6,300	6,300
Long-term debt, non-current	241,400	241,400
Unamortized debt issuance costs	900	900
Term Loan amount related to lender fees as a reduction to debt	800	800
Term Loan amount related to non-lender fees in Other NC Assets	$ 100	$ 100

Derivative Instruments and He_2

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Apr. 30, 2019
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Total debt outstanding	$ 794.7		$ 794.7
Unamortized debt issuance costs	0.8		0.8
Variable rate loans outstanding	795.5		795.5
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Net gain (losses) reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	0.3	$ 1.1	0.5	$ 2
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Liabilities fair value of derivative instrument	$ 0.7		$ 0.7
Assets fair value of derivative instrument					$ 0.5
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | August 2019 Interest Rate Swap (Variable Rate Loans) [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Inception date			Aug. 7, 2019
Fixed interest rate to be paid	1.40%		1.40%
Term of variable rate			1 month
Term of derivative instrument			3 years
Expiration date			Aug. 15, 2022
Notional amount of derivative liability	$ 100		$ 100
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | June 2019 Interest Rate Swap (Variable Rate Loans) [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Inception date			Jun. 24, 2019
Fixed interest rate to be paid	1.65%		1.65%
Term of variable rate			1 month
Term of derivative instrument			3 years
Expiration date			Jul. 15, 2022
Notional amount of derivative liability	$ 100		$ 100
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | April 2016 Interest Rate Swap (Variable Rate Loans) [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Inception date			Apr. 4, 2016
Fixed interest rate to be paid	0.92%		0.92%
Term of variable rate			1 month
Term of derivative instrument			3 years
Expiration date			May 15, 2019
Notional amount of derivative liability	$ 350		$ 350

Capital Stock and Changes in _3

Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Oct. 23, 2019	Jul. 24, 2019	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Total Dividend					$ 38,486	$ 38,033
Dividend Declared in Q1 2020 [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Total Dividend		$ 19,200
Dividend Declared in Q2 2020 [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Total Dividend	$ 19,100
Class A [Member]
Share repurchases [Abstract]
Shares Repurchased (in shares)			334,336	299,188	551,847	425,120
Average Price (in dollars per share)			$ 44.87	$ 56.82	$ 45.30	$ 58.79
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Quarterly Cash Dividend (in dollars per share)			$ 0.34	$ 0.33	$ 0.34	$ 0.33
Changes in Common Stock [Abstract]
Number of shares, beginning of year (in shares)					70,127,000	70,111,000
Common stock class conversions (in shares)					22,000	14,000
Number of shares issued, end of period (in shares)			70,149,000	70,125,000	70,149,000	70,125,000
Changes in Common Stock in Treasury [Abstract]
Number of shares held, beginning of year (in shares)					22,634,000	21,853,000
Purchase of treasury shares (in shares)					552,000	425,000
Restricted shares, forfeited (in shares)					0	0
Restricted shares issued from exercise of stock options (in shares)					(17,000)	(224,000)
Shares withheld for taxes (in shares)					44,000	53,000
Other (in shares)					0	6,000
Number of shares held, end of period (in shares)			23,107,000	22,000,000	23,107,000	22,000,000
Number of Common Stock outstanding, end of period (in shares)			47,042,000	48,125,000	47,042,000	48,125,000
Class A [Member] | Dividend Declared in Q1 2020 [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Date of Declaration by Board of Directors					Jun. 27, 2019
Quarterly Cash Dividend (in dollars per share)					$ 0.34
Dividend Paid Date					Jul. 24, 2019
Shareholders of Record as of Date					Jul. 10, 2019
Class A [Member] | Dividend Declared in Q2 2020 [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Date of Declaration by Board of Directors					Sep. 26, 2019
Quarterly Cash Dividend (in dollars per share)					$ 0.34
Dividend Paid Date					Oct. 23, 2019
Shareholders of Record as of Date					Oct. 8, 2019
Class A [Member] | Non-Performance Shares [Member]
Changes in Common Stock in Treasury [Abstract]
Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans (in shares)					(63,000)	(54,000)
Class A [Member] | Performance Share Units [Member]
Changes in Common Stock in Treasury [Abstract]
Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans (in shares)					(43,000)	(59,000)
Class B [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Quarterly Cash Dividend (in dollars per share)			$ 0.34	$ 0.33	$ 0.34	$ 0.33
Changes in Common Stock [Abstract]
Number of shares, beginning of year (in shares)					13,055,000	13,071,000
Common stock class conversions (in shares)					(22,000)	(14,000)
Number of shares issued, end of period (in shares)			13,033,000	13,057,000	13,033,000	13,057,000
Changes in Common Stock in Treasury [Abstract]
Number of shares held, beginning of year (in shares)					3,918,000	3,918,000
Number of shares held, end of period (in shares)			3,918,000	3,918,000	3,918,000	3,918,000
Number of Common Stock outstanding, end of period (in shares)			9,115,000	9,139,000	9,115,000	9,139,000
Class B [Member] | Dividend Declared in Q1 2020 [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Date of Declaration by Board of Directors					Jun. 27, 2019
Quarterly Cash Dividend (in dollars per share)					$ 0.34
Dividend Paid Date					Jul. 24, 2019
Shareholders of Record as of Date					Jul. 10, 2019
Class B [Member] | Dividend Declared in Q2 2020 [Member]
Cash dividends [Abstract]
Date of Declaration by Board of Directors					Sep. 26, 2019
Quarterly Cash Dividend (in dollars per share)					$ 0.34
Dividend Paid Date					Oct. 23, 2019
Shareholders of Record as of Date					Oct. 8, 2019