Levittown Student To Take Stage At Central Park

LEVITTOWN, PA — On Saturday, a freshman from Levittown will be taking the stage in Central Park alongside the likes of Janet Jackson.

Chelsie McClease, a student at Truman High School in Levittown, will be onstage at the Global Citizen Festival, representing students who have gotten help accessing technology to help with their school work. As a Verizon Innovative Learning student, she'll talk about the impact of tech inequality in schools in her region and throughout the country.

As part of the Verizon-sponsored program, Chelsie has been able to improve her grades and confidence. Going from an F-student to an A-student, she says that with access to a tablet computer, she's become a better engaged student and understands her school material better.

Last year, as a middle-school student, she received the Ms. Geri Marell Award for demonstrating strong positive character even when facing challenges.

"I am very excited," Chelsie said about the upcoming festival. "I never thought I'd have a chance like this."

According to Verizon, the company has invested millions of dollars in the Bristol and Levittown area and will be announcing a larger nationwide contribution next week.

Chelsie will be joining Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg onstage at the Global Citizen Festival. Hosted by Deborra-Lee Furness and Hugh Jackman, the festival will include performances by Janet Jackson, The Weeknd, Shawn Mendes, Cardi B and Janelle Monae.

Organized by the Global Poverty Project, the festival is devoted to ending extreme poverty. Fans can get free tickets to the festival by donating to charities or participating in charitable events posted on its website.

Photo courtesy Verizon Innovative Learning