Philanthropist and former gubernatorial candidate Paola Tulliani Zen committed to improving educational outcomes during her run in the 2022 Republican Primary. That commitment has not waned and now she has partnered with Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne to deliver.
According to the Arizona Department of Education, approximately 300 portable tablet devices have been delivered to students in the Ganado Unified School District on the Navajo Nation as result of a public-private partnership overseen by Horne in cooperation with the non-profit organization, My Life My Power and Smart Class Arizona, founded by Tulliani Zen.
The tablets were purchased by My Life My Power, a 501(c)3 Non-Profit that serves youth facing hardships and challenges. The Arizona Department of Education partnered with that organization and Smart Class Arizona to distribute them to the Ganado district at no cost to the public.
“We must transform schools with technology, making children ready for their future. We plan to implement pilot programs like the one in Ganado to demonstrate an increase in learning capacity among students provided with these fun, innovative learning pads,” said Tulliani Zen.
“These devices are a valuable tool for these students and address a significant need for Navajo children,” stated Horne. “Sadly, the average proficiency rate in math and science for Navajo children is five percent, which is scandalously low. Children who are performing that poorly in the classroom have almost no chance of succeeding in our economy and this kind of technology will create new ways for them to improve academically.”
“The tablets are already loaded with the materials the students need to study reading and math without any need for an internet connection,” explained Horne. “More than 90 percent of tribal communities in Arizona lack broadband internet service, so having preloaded tablets is an essential method to get vital educational resources to these students.”