Middle school unveils Verizon Innovative Learning Lab

Eighth grade student Christopher Grotz cuts the ribbon for the Verizon Innovative Learning Lab. Photo courtesy of Verizon.

Neil A. Armstrong Middle School in Bristol Township School District unveiled its Verizon Innovative Learning Lab on April 17 with a ribbon cutting and tour.

The new lab gives students access to emerging technology such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI). It was made possible by Verizon, through a partnership with Heart of America and the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University.

A ceremony was held in Armstrong’s gym and included remarks from Superintendent Michael Nitti, Supervisor of Elementary Curriculum Bernadette Hannah, Assistant Principal Jeana Sabatini-Gilbert, Verizon State Government Affairs Jennifer Young, high school alumna Minu Patel, and eighth grade student Christopher Grotz.

“With the help of this lab, our students are learning how to problem solve and prepare for future jobs in STEAM fields,” stated Nitti. “The main focus of our Educational Leadership Team is to promote student achievement and prepare our students for success in a global society in a modern learning environment, and this is a wonderful example of that mission coming to fruition.”

After the speeches, everyone moved to the Verizon Innovative Learning Lab for the ribbon cutting by Grotz. Then guests could take a tour and explore the lab, watching students use VR goggles, seeing the 3D printer in action and talking to students about their lab projects.

In attendance at the event was State Representative Tina Davis, Township Manager Randee Mazur and Councilwoman Marcia Dunlap. A representative from Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick’s office presented a citation. Additionally, Isaac Kessler and Jennifer McKeever from Remington & Vernick Engineers presented a check of $500 to the district.

Following the event was the Bristol Township School District Family STEAM Night, featuring a variety of hands-on activities in the new lab and around the school. Students in K-12 played Sphero soccer, built a catapult, created Barbie fashion, learned computer coding and much more.