Ciena announced that it has partnered with Verizon Innovative Learning, Verizon’s education initiative targeting under-resourced Title 1 schools across the country, to bolster remote learning and support digital inclusion at two public schools.
In the partnership, Ciena will provide devices and supporting security software to all students at Hubbard Media Arts Academy in San Jose, California, and 10th-12th grade students at Baltimore Design School (BDS) in Baltimore, Maryland – both Title 1 schools.
The partnership will leverage the Verizon Innovative Learning program benefits, including Verizon 4G LTE connectivity, as well as STEM infused curriculum and professional development for educators.
Ciena will also work with Verizon to coordinate Ciena employee volunteer activities with the schools to help drive employee engagement and give students the opportunity to learn new, emerging technologies.
Ciena says its Digital Inclusion Commitment aims to engage and mobilize the company’s global workforce, leverage its innovation leadership, and collaborate with Ciena customers, suppliers and other partners to bridge the digital divide through innovative solutions, digital skills and enabling technologies.
Since 2012, Verizon Innovative Learning has launched in 264 middle and high schools nationwide. The program supports Title I schools with free technology, access and innovative learning programs that transform the learning experience, and also provides students with the necessary tools to develop the skills, knowledge, and capabilities needed to thrive in the digital world, including for the current climate of remote learning.
The program provides school administration, students and teachers with devices, connectivity and professional development support to help schools integrate technology into the classroom and best position them to overcome the digital divide.
“Our current reality has highlighted the gaps that exist for students across the country when it comes to digital technology and internet access. At Ciena, we want to be an even bigger part of the solution by helping to bridge this connectivity divide and drive digital inclusion,” concludes Gary Smith, president and CEO, Ciena. “We’re thrilled to partner with Verizon Innovative Learning initiative and bring tech accessibility to these schools, helping students become more digitally literate and realize the infinite possibilities that lie ahead in their future.”
Learn more at www.CitizenVerizon.com and www.ciena.com.