Verizon and LA Unified provide internet access to Nevada families in need

Rhea-AI Summary

On December 16, 2021, Verizon and the Los Angeles Unified School District expanded their partnership to provide discounted mobile broadband plans to nearly 26,000 families in Nevada lacking reliable internet access. This collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating access to essential online educational resources. The original partnership began in March 2020, focusing on distance learning during school closures, and is now broadened to support affordable internet access through state and local organizations.

Positive

• Expansion of the partnership helps 26,000 families in Nevada access discounted internet services.
• Collaboration addresses the digital divide, enhancing educational resources for students.
• Verizon's existing program has successfully supported distance learning for students nationwide.

Negative

• None.

CARSON CITY, Nev., Dec. 16, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nearly 26,000—or 10%—of families in Nevada lack a reliable internet connection¹, prompting Verizon and Los Angeles Unified School District, the nation’s second-largest school district, to expand their existing partnership to enable eligible families and individuals in Nevada to access discounted mobile broadband plans, voice service plans, and equipment through Nevada state, local, or select non-profit organizations.

Los Angeles Unified first partnered with Verizon on its distance learning program in the early days of nationwide COVID-19-related school closures in March 2020. The landmark agreement was amended to enable Los Angeles Unified to provide school districts, and eventually state, local and non-profit organizations across California with a fast-track to reliable and affordable internet access. The Verizon-Los Angeles Unified partnership was also the blueprint on which Verizon architected its national program that made distance learning available for up to 38 million students in 40 states and the District of Columbia.

“Internet access has become an essential utility and learning tool for students and their families, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Los Angeles Unified Interim Superintendent Megan K. Reilly. “Last year Los Angeles Unified created the original pathway to connect students with our school community, and we’re thrilled that families throughout Nevada will be able to access even greater affordable internet in partnership with Verizon.”

Also through an amendment, Los Angeles Unified expanded its role in Verizon’s national digital inclusion program, along with the Georgia Department of Education and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The program consists of discounted pricing that support economic and social development by enabling state and local government agencies, school districts and non-profit organizations to provide affordable internet access to low-income households.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought enormous attention to the digital divide in this country, as families and school systems have been unable to meet the critical requirement for reliable internet access,” said Jennifer Chronis, Senior Vice President, Verizon Public Sector. “From our historic partnership with Los Angeles Unified, to our flagship education initiative, Verizon Innovative Learning, which includes 23 LA Unified schools, we are dedicated to addressing barriers to digital inclusion for students, families, teachers and communities.”

The most recent Los Angeles Unified amendment also serves to expand the existing distance learning program to enable public libraries to benefit from the same contract terms as Nevada K-12 schools.

Nevada state and local government agencies, school districts and non-profit organizations that are interested in benefiting from the Verizon digital inclusion or distance learning programs can call 844.825.8389 or visit this link for more information.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products and services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $128.3 billion in 2020. The company offers data, video and voice services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

Media contacts:
Krys Card Grondorf
krys.grondorf@verizon.com
562-370-0331

Jennifer Sukhraj
jennifer.sukhraj@verizon.com
347-906-2353

_______________________

¹ Guinn Center, Nevada’s Digital Divide, 2020

FAQ

What is the purpose of the new Verizon and Los Angeles Unified partnership in Nevada?

The partnership aims to provide affordable mobile broadband plans to families in Nevada who currently lack reliable internet access.

How many families in Nevada will benefit from the Verizon partnership?

Nearly 26,000 families in Nevada are expected to benefit from this initiative.

When was the Verizon and Los Angeles Unified partnership originally established?

The original partnership began in March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What impact has the partnership had on distance learning?

The partnership has enabled distance learning access for up to 38 million students across 40 states.

How can families in Nevada access Verizon's discounted internet plans?

Families can contact local state or non-profit organizations involved in the program to access discounted plans.