Verizon is at the forefront of education initiatives, and their signature programme, Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers, is making a real difference.

Partnering with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), they offer the Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers programme to students in underserved communities.

This free, hands-on programme allows middle schoolers to explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in a fun and immersive way. Students learn problem-solving skills and discover exciting career opportunities in the tech field. It is no surprise that 90% of students in the 2023 summer programme reported enjoying STEM learning, and 83% felt empowered to use STEM to tackle real-world problems.

Learning by Doing

The programme's curriculum, developed with Arizona State University, focuses on four key areas: immersive media, smart solutions, digital product creation, and artificial intelligence.

Students get valuable mentorship and work with cutting-edge technology like 3D printers, augmented reality (AR), and robotics. They tackle real-world challenges, learning design thinking and social entrepreneurship along the way.

The programme takes place on the campuses of 45 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and community colleges across the country.

"As tech and AI continue accelerating the pace of innovation, it’s up to all business leaders to ensure digital equity and inclusion,” said Rose Stuckey Kirk, Verizon’s Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer. “One of our many strategies to address this is Verizon Innovative Learning’s STEM Achievers summer program, in partnership with NACCE, which provides students with hands-on learning, mentorship, and opportunities to engage with emerging technologies and develop the necessary skills to succeed in the digital workforce. The opportunity for students to engage with tech over the summer and propel their own learning and digital skills can set them up for success during the school year, beyond middle school and in life. Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers do big and bold things through the program and beyond – both inside and outside the classroom – and Verizon is honoured to be part of their journey.”

Free Registration Open Now

The programme offers parents of rising 6th-8th graders the chance to sign up their kids for free summer sessions. Also, students can participate in one-day workshops held in the fall and spring at the partner colleges.

Free Learning Resources for All

The commitment to education goes beyond the STEM Achievers programme. Verizon Innovative Learning HQ is a free online portal that provides teachers and students with next-generation learning tools. This award-winning platform offers a curated collection of lesson plans, including some that use AR and VR technology. Educators also gain access to over 50 professional development courses and extensive training resources.

A Decade of Making a Difference

For over ten years, Verizon Innovative Learning has been a leader in breaking down barriers to digital inclusion. Since 2012, they have invested $1 billion to support digital equity, reaching over 7 million students. By providing free technology, internet access, and innovative learning programs, they are empowering students in underserved communities and preparing them to be the future workforce. This initiative aligns perfectly with Verizon's commitment to providing digital skills training to 10 million young people by 2030.

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Source: Verizon