SAANYS to Honor Verizon Foundation With Friend of Education Award

ALBANY, NY (04/30/2012)(readMedia)-- The Verizon Foundation has been selected as the 2012 Friend of Education by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). This award is given to an individual, group, or organization that has consistently contributed to the support and advancement of outstanding public education and the students of New York State.

SAANYS Executive Director Kevin Casey noted, "The selection committee for the SAANYS Awards Program voted unanimously in favor of the Verizon Foundation receiving this year's Friend of Education Award. Their outstanding commitment, dedication, and generosity to education, students, and those who teach, is commendable. On behalf of our members, school leaders from across New York State, I extend my sincere appreciation for the extensive outreach the foundation provides."

The Verizon Foundation manages Verizon's philanthropic work, helping people to live healthy, safe, and independent lives by addressing disparities in education, healthcare, and sustainability.

For over a decade, the Verizon Foundation has provided grants to schools across the country in support of the necessary resources to improve student learning and achievement. Today, the foundation works with schools to integrate technology into the classroom to better prepare students for success in the 21st century.

Verizon Thinfinity.org, an award-winning educational online resource, offers free digital content, lesson plans, and teacher training for schools and organizations. The free content from Thinfinity.org is focused on increasing student interest and achievement in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

"We are honored for this recognition from SAANYS," said Justina Nixon-Saintil, director of education for the Verizon Foundation. "We believe technology can transform education so we invest in these initiatives that inspire and support teachers to effectively integrate technology in the classroom, all leading to a positive impact on engaging students and getting them interested in subjects in STEM."

Thinkfinity.org educational offers online activities, games, videos, podcasts, and more for students needing help with a subject. All content is aligned to state and common core standards and is provided by the most respected names in education. All of the free content is easily searchable by grade level, keyword, or subject. There is also a community in Verizon's Thinkfinity.org site that offers an engaging and supportive environment for educators to collaborate, connect, discuss topics, and share resources and best practices.

The Verizon Foundation will be honored for their contributions at an awards ceremony on May 4, 2012 at the Century House in Latham, New York.

SAANYS represents nearly 7,200 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).