Embarking on a mission to uplift and empower educators, Victra, the largest authorized retailer of Verizon products in the U.S., this year has joined hands with the esteemed Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, GA, to create a transformative partnership.
This collaboration holds a profound purpose: to provide educators from all corners of the nation with an unparalleled opportunity to experience the sought-after training experience at the Academy in Atlanta. With a commitment to fostering positive change, Victra Cares, the charitable arm of Victra, has chosen the Ron Clark Academy as its nonprofit partner. The core philosophy underscoring the collaboration is the belief that by empowering educators, we can help bring about even better learning experiences for future generations. Through its teacher nomination series and now donation drive–allowing individuals within the community to directly sponsor their favorite teachers to attend the training–the partnership serves as a catalyst for new perspectives, enabling teachers to guide their students towards their full potential in both the classroom and beyond.
We had the chance to sit down with Rich Balot, Founder and CEO of Victra, to download on the ongoing efforts with Ron Clark Academy, the changing classroom landscape and how deserving educators from our communities can benefit from these programs.
1. Tell us more about the program you’re running in partnership with Ron Clark Academy?
When we reflect on significant moments in life, we often think of those who guided us – teachers, coaches, and principals. They played a vital role in shaping our potential.
That’s why we’ve joined forces with the Ron Clark Academy to raise $300K. This will enable us to sponsor a developmental experience for 100 educators from various parts of the country at the renowned Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, GA. Our aim is to back those who are already making a difference in the lives of young learners and contribute to building a path for generations ahead.
2. Does Victra have a longstanding history of supporting educators? Why now?
We always choose a non-profit partner that shares our core values and focuses on causes that our employees deeply care about. This is the first time we’re teaming up with a cause that specifically supports educators.
Ron and I both graduated from ECU and recently reconnected through our active involvement in the college community. I had the chance to visit the Ron Clark Academy and was truly impressed by their approach and the efforts of Ron and his team. Since then I’ve been back multiple times and have brought others within my network to see it for themselves too!
My own experiences with teachers left a lasting impression on me during my childhood. Today, as I see the impact of education on my own kids, I wanted to provide that inspiration to other teachers.
3. Back to school – how can our readers celebrate their favorite educators as they dive into the new academic year?
Supporting teachers is easier than you might think. A straightforward method is to check if teachers have Amazon Wish Lists for classroom supplies at many schools. This helps greatly as the new school year begins.
Being engaged parents and caregivers, participating in the PTA, and volunteering during school events are practical ways to connect with schools and provide support to teachers.
We are also doing a donation drive so that communities and individuals can sponsor a teacher to directly attend the prestigious training at the Ron Clark Academy. You can learn more about the various options here: www.ronclarkacademy.com/Victra
4. How do you plan to expand/build on the program in the future?
Right now our current campaign will run through the end of the year in terms of donations and into early 2024 with our teacher development day. More to come on plans for next year and beyond as we solidify our charitable giving strategy, as part of our multi-year planning.
5. There’s a natural synergy between Victra’s offering and the role technology plays in student’s learning. How have you seen this trend evolve over the years? How does Victra meet demand and support individual teachers and students alike?
As technology advances, it becomes more affordable for schools and students to access tools that enhance learning. From tablets and laptops to AI technology, we’ve witnessed a continuous evolution in telecom, which is now shaping the educational landscape.
Mobile technology has become an integral part of our lives, extending to education as well. Students of all ages can benefit from having connected devices like laptops, iPads, smartphones with crash detection, or Gizmo watches for younger ones – enabling communication when a smartphone might not be suitable.
While Victra doesn’t directly sell to schools, Verizon collaborates directly with educational institutions to provide the latest technology products and services. This ensures that schools can leverage the power of technology to enhance their teaching and learning environments.
6. What kinds of technologies are popular among teachers?
Verizon has a range of products that can be helpful for educators. These include smartwatches, tablets, headphones, and Verizon Jetpacks. These compact devices provide connectivity wherever there’s a cellular signal, and they are in high demand as students prepare for the upcoming academic year.
7. How can technology positively impact learning environments?
In today’s tech-driven learning landscape, the digital divide has posed a challenge for many students. Victra has proactively addressed this issue through initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program. By providing support to households, particularly those in low-income or rural areas, Victra has helped offset the costs of connectivity. This has equipped previously underserved students with the tools needed for academic success.
Verizon’s commitment to expanding 5G coverage further reinforces these efforts. While direct sales to schools aren’t feasible, Victra is dedicated to extending broadband services to as many households as possible. This approach recognizes that education transcends classroom boundaries.
Victra’s support extends beyond connectivity. Understanding that learning happens beyond school walls, the focus has shifted toward providing crucial assistance for both students and educators. By facilitating seamless access to resources, assignments, and educational content at home, we indirectly strengthen the overall education ecosystem.
Victra’s involvement in classroom tech integration goes beyond technology itself. It’s about recognizing the potential for positive change in education and translating that recognition into actionable steps. Through initiatives, broadband expansion, and commitment to digital equity, Victra has become a driving force, empowering students and educators to flourish in a technology-driven learning environment.
Our role in enhancing classroom technology isn’t just about gadgets. It’s about fostering meaningful educational transformation. Through practical measures, dedication to equitable access, and a focus on modern learning, Victra is actively shaping a future where technology becomes a catalyst for educational growth.
8. How does Victra help educators identify their technology needs?
Our technology experts are here to assist guests in finding the best products and services for them and their students. They’re trained to engage in a helpful conversation that uncovers their technology requirements, considering lifestyle and budget.
This dialogue enables our experts to suggest personalized recommendations that suit their unique needs. Our wide range of products, including smartphones, watches, and tablets, allows us to provide solutions for various educational needs.
About Rich Balot
Founder and CEO
Richard (“Rich”) Balot founded ABC Phones of North Carolina, Inc. (dba: Victra) in October of 1996 as a freshman in college. Under his guidance, the company has grown from a single store location to over 1,500 store locations across 50 states, with annual sales exceeding $3 billion. Victra has become Verizon’s largest exclusive premium retailer and Rich is considered a thought leader within the industry and among his peers. Rich is an active member in Young Presidents Organization (YPO). He also volunteers with numerous local charities, participating with his family. Rich holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from East Carolina University.
