The University of the District of Columbia has partnered with Verizon Innovative Learning to help prepare students for jobs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The 2018 -2019 curriculum program includes hands-on advanced technology, app development, coding, 3-D design and printing, robotics, virtual reality and more.
Since 2012, Verizon Innovative Learning, through its Verizon Wireless retail stores, has been working to help kids learn new skills through hands-on technology workshops for elementary and middle school students ages 8-12.
Summer programs have been held at Jackson State University, Morgan State University, and North Carolina A&T University.
The 3-week tech immersion program on the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) campus will run from July 9 through July 27.
Students will be paired with graduate and undergraduate UDC students who will serve as year-round mentors.
According to Westat March 2017, after two years Verizon Innovative Learning students improved on standardized tests at rates higher than their peers - 3X for math and 2X for reading.
By 2020, 77% of the jobs in the United States will require a technology skill-set, yet millions of students still lack access to the technology and resources they need to help them thrive in a digital economy.
Verizon Innovative Learning, a Verizon Foundation education initiative, addresses this issue by providing free technology, free access and an innovative curriculum to students impacted by the digital divide.
UDC's program will be followed by a STEM Academy one Saturday a month September 2018 through April 2019.