The digital divide closed a bit for students at three Los Angeles Unified School District middle schools in South L.A. and Winnetka. Thanks to a $1.8 million grant from Verizon, Inc., youngsters in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades received iPads, digital resources and free home Internet access for one year.
The rollout event, which was held Sept. 18, stemmed from a partnership between Verizon’s Innovative Learning Schools Initiative (VIL) and the LAUSD to increase technology access for students. The recipients attend Gompers and Edison Middle Schools in South L.A. and Sutter Middle School in Winnetka.
“This is an incredible opportunity for the students of these three middle schools,” said Eduardo Solórzano, LAUSD middle schools administrator. “Thanks to this great opportunity, students at these schools can enhance their learning through up-to-date technology, truly giving them tools they will need for life.”
In addition to the iPads, the students were treated to a technology fair where they obtaining hands-on learning experience. As the pupils visited various classes, they were able to participate in MakerSpace demonstrations, robotics presentations and other technology-related displays.
Teachers will benefit from the VIL program as well. Each school received partial funding for an instructional coach who will assist teachers with incorporating technology into the curriculum and provide professional development support.
