In partnership with Digital Promise, Verizon Innovative Learning will welcome two schools in Bastrop Independent School District for the 2025-26 school year    

BASTROP, Texas – Today, Bastrop Independent School District joins the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program, Verizon’s award-winning education initiative which addresses barriers to digital inclusion. In partnership with Digital Promise, the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program works side-by-side with schools and districts to provide free technology devices, access to the internet and innovative STEM learning programs for today, so students can excel with technology tomorrow. Being part of Verizon Innovative Learning Schools will keep students connected, helping to facilitate learning wherever it’s taking place.

“This opportunity to partner with the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program is invaluable. Our students, teachers, staff, and district at large will benefit greatly from the access, systems, professional learning, and leadership coaching this will bring,” said Chris Lairscey, Bastrop ISD Director of Digital Learning. “We are beyond excited for Bastrop ISD to lead the way and be a model for excellence through our participation in this program.”

In addition to reliable access for every student and teacher, the partnership also equips each school with a technology coach and provides robust professional development support for teachers to effectively integrate technology into the classroom.

Bastrop Middle School and Cedar Creek Middle School are among the 34 new schools joining the 12th cohort of Verizon Innovative Learning Schools, bringing the program’s reach to 660 middle and high schools nationwide. 

Participating schools, which have been selected by Digital Promise, will receive free laptops with accompanying Verizon data plans for every student and teacher beginning in fall 2025. In addition, each school will be assigned a full-time coach to train teachers in using the technology for powerful and engaging learning experiences.

“Verizon Innovative Learning ignites innovation and curiosity within the classroom,” said Ryan Beck, Director, Verizon State & Local Government Affairs. “We are excited to welcome the Bastrop Independent School District into the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program, and about the lasting impact it will have on students and their communities.”

Verizon Innovative Learning is driving improvements in the classroom. In fact, 80 percent of teachers reported they felt more confident leveraging technology in teaching because of Verizon Innovative Learning Schools, and 80 percent said the program increased student engagement.*

These efforts to support digital inclusion are part of Verizon’s responsible business plan. Learn more about Verizon Innovative Learning Schools and how districts can apply at verizon.digitalpromise.org.