Over this summer, I've noticed an even greater focus on the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it might impact education and work in the future. After attending ISTE 2019 in Philadelphia, several edtech startups caught my attention because of the mention of AI. After doing some research, I came across a few other AI tools beginning to gain ground in classrooms. There is so much information out there that finding time to explore it all can be a challenge. To make it easier, I signed up to receive Google alerts about cutting edge and emerging trends with AI.

When the Montour School District launched America's first Artificial Intelligence Middle School program in the fall of 2018, many questions arose. How? (Just to name a few). But, as a student-centered and future-focused district, the thought process was not if we should teach AI, but what if we don't teach AI? Also, why isn't everyone teaching AI? Through a series of courses developed and implemented by Montour team members and partners, the AI program officially launched in October 2018. To date, hundreds of classes have already been taught to students in areas of AI Ethics, AI Autonomous Robotics, AI Computer Science, and AI Music. The goal for the program is to make an all-inclusive AI program for all middle school students that is relevant and meaningful in a world where children live and prepare them for a future where they will thrive.

You are likely familiar with how quickly AI will soon begin to shape our classrooms. This has been the guiding idea behind a new initiative in my district that we are very excited to announce. Beginning in the fall of 2018, Montour School District will offer a new program in artificial intelligence (AI), providing students with a myriad of opportunities to explore and experience AI, using it to cultivate, nurture, and enhance initiatives aimed at increasing the public good. The new program, Montour AI, will be housed at David E. Williams Middle School. Just as AI hinges on the data collected, Montour AI's success will hinge on a collection of shared stakeholders including higher education scholars, community leaders, business executives, parents, and students.