Verizon innovation labs unveiled in Jersey City

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The latest Verizon Innovative Learning Labs were unveiled during a kickoff event March 13 in Jersey City at Joseph H. Brensinger Elementary School (Public School No. 17) and Mahatma K. Gandhi School (PS No. 23).

The labs, which give students and teachers access to emerging technology, were made possible by Verizon, through a partnership with Heart of America and the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University. The goal is to provide fun, hands-on and experiential learning experiences through technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality (AV/VR) equipment, 3D printers, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).

Verizon says the effort is also part of its commitment to digital inclusion, as the company continues to work with nonprofit partners to provide free technology, free internet access and hands-on learning experience to help students in under-resourced communities receive the education needed to prepare for today’s digital economy.

“So many students across the nation lack the access to technology and resources they need to be successful in today’s digital world,” said Mark Bocchieri, manager, State and Local Government Affairs, Verizon. “On behalf of Verizon, we are excited to enable students in Jersey City Public Schools with this multi-year initiative that integrates emerging technology with an online, project-based curriculum along with real-world problem solving in a custom-designed, experiential learning lab.”

Since 2012, Verizon Innovative Learning has committed $1 billion in market value toward this effort of digital equity, reaching 1.5 million students. The company has a goal of providing 10 million youths with digital skills training by 2030. The program is a key initiative under Citizen Verizon, the company’s responsible business plan for economic, environmental, and social advancement.