Verizon is making significant strides in education technology through its Verizon Innovative Learning initiative, which has engaged over 8.5 million students since its inception. The company aims to reach 10 million students by 2030, addressing the urgent need for digital fluency among young learners.
A recent study found that only 55% of students entering the workforce feel equipped with the necessary skills for today’s digital economy. This statistic underscores the importance of Verizon’s mission to bridge digital divides, an undertaking that has only grown more critical since the initiative launched over a decade ago.
"During more than a decade, Verizon Innovative Learning has been committed to breaking down barriers and equipping students with the skills and technology they need to thrive in today’s digital economy," said Donna Epps, the business responsible director of Verizon. "By expanding our reach, we continue to drive the greatness of the next generation and ensure students and teachers feel confident leveraging technology to enhance their lives."
Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, Verizon will add 34 new Title I schools from nine districts to its education program, partnering with Digital Promise. These schools will receive devices such as tablets and laptops, alongside a data plan from Verizon for up to four years per student and teacher. Each participating school will also be allocated a full-time technology coach to help educators effectively integrate technology into their teaching.
The impact of this initiative is already being seen. Approximately 80% of teachers involved in the program reported increased confidence in using technology in their classrooms, and similarly, 80% noted an improvement in student participation.
Expanded partnerships include multiple school districts, such as Chicago Public Schools, Compton Unified School District, and Kansas City Public Schools, among others in various states.
Beyond the direct school implementations, Verizon has opened its Innovative Learning HQ to any educator across the country. This free online resource offers over 500 K-12 lessons, covering STEM topics and professional development resources aimed at fostering innovative teaching methods. The platform provides lesson plans aligned with educational standards, ranging from prepared supplemental lessons to year-long courses featuring immersive learning experiences through augmented and virtual reality. Content is further enriched by collaborative inputs from respected education partners, including Discovery Education and Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute.
Verizon’s commitment to educational equity and digital inclusion goes beyond mere exposure to technology, having invested over $1 billion in market value to support these initiatives nationwide. This comprehensive approach has successfully impacted millions of students, contributing to the company’s responsible business plan that emphasizes social, economic, and environmental progress.
For small business owners, especially those in the education sector or working with local schools, this initiative represents both opportunity and challenge. As schools enhance their technology frameworks, local businesses can align their services to provide supplementary educational tools and support. Independent tutoring businesses, for instance, may find new avenues to offer technology-integrated learning or after-school programs that focus on digital skills. However, keeping pace with technological advancements can require additional investment and training, which may pose challenges for small operations.
The substantial presence of Verizon in the education sector signals a shift towards a more tech-savvy educational environment. Small business owners looking to support educators could leverage partnerships or create tailored curricula that align with emerging digital tools.
As Verizon continues its mission to equip the next generation, small business owners should consider how they can adapt to and engage with these evolving educational needs. For more information, read the full press release here.
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