| Abstract: |
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technology is transforming how we live, work, and learn, and the U.S. education sector faces unique challenges in keeping pace. While businesses are using artificial intelligence (AI) to increase efficiencies and scientists are using it to accelerate discovery, the value proposition for K-12 education is more complex. AI could personalize learning, support teachers, and improve student outcomes, but it also brings risks such as data security and privacy, deepening learning gaps, and overreliance on technology. Bellwether and aiEDU: The AI Education Project convened a group of philanthropic funders and education leaders in March 2025 for an action-oriented discussion on building AI readiness across the K-12 education ecosystem. While that systems-level perspective remains an essential foundation, the March 2025 convening focused more narrowly on educator- and student-facing readiness, where the impact of AI is already being felt and where the need for practical, high-quality solutions is most immediate for teachers with limited resources and students in underserved communities. Over two days, participants named the most pressing challenges schools and educators face, proposed five areas where philanthropic investment could make a meaningful difference, and surfaced ideas to help guide how the education field can move forward with AI in a clear, coordinated, and equitable way. This report synthesizes key takeaways from the convening into a guide for funders and education leaders working to prepare K-12 systems for AI readiness. At its core, this report calls for thoughtful investment in people, capacity, and infrastructure so that the K-12 education sector can proactively shape an AI-powered future that works for all teachers and students. [This report was produced with aiEDU: The AI Education Project. Additional funding for this report was provided by the CK-12 Foundation.] |