ALLENTOWN, Pa. – William Allen and Dieruff High Schools have joined the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program, giving students access to iPads and internet connectivity as the Allentown School District expands its efforts to provide technology for learning.
The program officially launched on Wednesday with a kickoff event at Dieruff High School.
Officials say that in this initiative, about 4,800 internet-connected devices with data plans will be provided to students across the district.
The program is a partnership between Verizon and Digital Promise that aims to expand students’ access to technology while helping teachers integrate digital tools into classroom instruction.
“The iPads are with the students at school and at home. Students have access to the iPad and innovative and powerful learning at their fingertips all the time,” said Hanan Attiyah, Allentown School District supervisor of instructional technology.
The devices are intended for educational use, with restrictions designed to keep students focused on schoolwork.
The program goes beyond providing devices. Each participating school receives a technology coach who works with teachers to incorporate technology into their lessons.
Teachers will also receive professional development aimed at using digital tools to support instruction and student engagement.
“We’re looking forward to building the skills and digital life skills for the next generation so that they’re equipped with the new technology that’s coming and that they’re not left behind,” said Martin Torrence of Verizon State and Local Government Affairs.
Allentown piloted the Verizon program during the 2025-26 school year at its four middle schools and Bridgeview Academy. With William Allen and Dieruff joining for the 2026-27 school year, all of the district’s secondary schools are now part of the program.
The expansion is intended to keep students connected to learning both inside and outside the classroom while giving teachers additional resources to incorporate technology into instruction.