Courtesy photo
By Emilie St. John
Contributing Writer
COMPTON — The Compton Unified School District continues to be ahead of the curve in bringing innovative learning programs to its 18,000 students.
The district recently announced that Bursch, Emerson, and Kelly elementary schools have been selected to the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program, an award-winning education initiative designed to address barriers to digital inclusion.
In collaboration with Digital Promise, the program provides students and teachers with free technology devices, internet access and cutting-edge learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics to help students develop the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
“I cannot emphasize enough how big a deal this is to add these three wonderful learning communities to Compton Unified’s cadre of 12 Verizon Innovative Learning schools,” said school board President Micah Ali. “It demonstrates our district’s efforts to ensure our students access learning environments that allows them to not just compete in a digital society but lead in it.”
The three elementary schools join 12 other Compton schools already taking part in the program.
“The addition of these three schools to the Verizon Innovative Learning program marks another step forward in our mission to provide high-quality, innovative education,” said district Superintendent Darin Brawley. “With 15 schools now participating, we are grateful for this partnership, which continues to provide our students and educators with invaluable support.”
Through the program, every student and teacher at participating schools will receive a free tablet or laptop with a Verizon data plan, ensuring reliable access both in and outside of the classroom. Each school will also be assigned a full-time technology coach and receive comprehensive professional development to help educators integrate technology into their teaching effectively.
“Verizon is proud to work alongside Digital Promise to equip Compton Unified schools with the latest technology and internet access while offering robust support to teachers,” said Ursula Moran Bagley, Verizon government affairs director. “By investing in the community, we hope to inspire students and empower them to map out their future careers with confidence.”
Bursch, Emerson, and Kelly elementary schools are among 34 new schools joining the 12th cohort of Verizon Innovative Learning Schools, bringing the program’s reach to 660 middle and high schools nationwide.
These efforts are part of Verizon’s broader commitment to closing the digital divide and advancing digital inclusion through responsible business initiatives.
For more information about Verizon Innovative Learning Schools and how to apply, visit verizon.digitalpromise.org.
Emilie St. John is a freelance journalist covering the areas of Carson, Compton, Inglewood and Willowbrook. Send tips to her at emiliesaintjohn@gmail.com.
