Hundreds of Compton Unified students are gearing up for the school year with new technology, thanks to the ongoing collaboration between the Compton Unified School District (CUSD) and the Verizon Innovative Learning Program. This initiative is a vital part of Verizon’s commitment to enhancing education and addressing the digital divide that many students face.
As of the 2025-26 school year, three schools within the Compton Unified District—Kelly Elementary, Bursch Elementary, and Emerson Elementary—have joined this transformative program. The Verizon Innovative Learning initiative is not just about providing devices; it’s about creating digital inclusivity by ensuring that students and teachers are equipped with the tools they need for modern learning environments.
### Kick-off Event at Kelly Elementary
On September 9, 2025, the district celebrated this partnership with a kick-off event at Kelly Elementary School. Here, 300 students received their very own iPads, marking an essential step in enhancing their educational experiences. Michele Dawson, the senior director of instructional technology for CUSD, emphasized the significance of the program, stating, “Being part of the Verizon Innovative Learning Program since 2017 has been an integral part of our success at Compton Unified School District.” This sentiment reflects the district’s commitment to using technology as a catalyst for learning and development.
### Expanding the Impact
With this latest addition, 15 schools within the district have now benefited from the Verizon Innovative Learning Program, impacting over 10,000 students to date. This scale of inclusion is not only impressive but also necessary in a world that increasingly relies on technology. The initiative helps to address some of the key barriers to digital access and inclusion, especially in underprivileged communities.
The availability of internet-connected devices enables students to engage more meaningfully with their learning materials. This initiative aligns itself with a broader goal—ensuring students have access to the tools they need to thrive academically and later in their careers. As part of the program, students will receive internet access as well as education on how to effectively use their devices for learning.
### A Broader Vision
Verizon’s partnership with Digital Promise, a global nonprofit dedicated to expanding educational opportunities, enhances the effectiveness of this initiative. Digital Promise aids schools by providing specialized training and resources, allowing teachers to seamlessly integrate technology into their curricula. This professional development is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the devices provided to the students.
Verizon Innovative Learning doesn’t stop with providing devices; it also includes technology coaches, robust training for educators, and ongoing support to ensure that technology is effectively harnessed in the classroom. Such comprehensive assistance helps create a more innovative and responsive learning environment that can meet the diverse needs of students.
### Bridging the Digital Divide
One of the principal missions of the Verizon Innovative Learning initiative is to bridge the digital divide. This term refers to the disparity in access to technology and the internet between different demographics and communities. In today’s education landscape, students who do not have reliable internet access or modern devices can struggle to keep up with their peers. By addressing these disparities, Verizon aims to empower students, giving them the tools they need to succeed academically and prepare them for future careers.
With the inclusion of 752 new devices equipped with data plans, the three Compton Unified schools are now part of a larger network of 660 schools across the nation participating in this initiative. The impact of this program is widespread, providing opportunities for students to learn and grow in a tech-driven world.
### Inspiring Future Generations
The event at Kelly Elementary was more than just a distribution of devices; it was an inspirational moment for the students involved. Fifth graders like Alfonso Zavala and Briseida Torres were captured enjoying their new iPads, symbolizing the excitement and opportunities technology can bring. This type of enthusiasm is vital for fostering a community of learners who are eager to engage with new platforms and tools.
Verizon Government Affairs Director Ursula Moran Bagley articulated the company’s motivation, saying, “By investing in the community, we hope to inspire students and empower them to map out their future careers with confidence.” This sentiment echoes throughout the partnership, reflecting a profound belief in equipping the next generation to thrive in an increasingly digital future.
### Conclusion
The partnership between the Compton Unified School District and the Verizon Innovative Learning Program represents a significant step towards narrowing the digital divide and enhancing educational equity. Through the provision of technology, professional development, and ongoing support, students in Compton are not only receiving tools for the present but are also being prepared for the future.
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, initiatives like this are crucial. They ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to access the resources necessary for success in their academic and professional lives. As Compton Unified continues to embrace this innovative program, the district sets a positive example for other communities looking to enhance education through technology. The students, teachers, and the broader community stand to gain significantly from this ongoing commitment to digital inclusion and educational excellence.
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