The student-centered and future-focused Montour School District in Pennsylvania successfully integrated AI into its curriculum, becoming the first public school district in the United States to do so.
This initiative began in 2018, driven by partnerships with Carnegie Mellon University, AI4All, and other organizations. The goal for the program was 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. The program includes courses on AI ethics, autonomous robotics, computer science, and AI music. Students engage in hands-on projects and real-world applications of AI, which helps demystify the technology and encourage interest in STEM fields.
Key elements of their approach:
- Collaborations: Montour partnered with AI4All, Carnegie Mellon University, and other tech organizations to bring expertise and resources.
- Innovative Strategies: Educators at Montour used a variety of innovative strategies, including embedding AI courses in current quarter, semester, and year-long Media Arts, STEM, Music, and Computer Science electives.
- Curriculum Development: They created interdisciplinary courses that cover a wide range of AI topics.
- Teacher Training: Educators received professional development to effectively teach AI concepts. Teachers were exposed to data literacy tools like EarthTime and more AI relevant resources such as voice assistant devices, to insert in core content courses.
- Student Engagement: Students participated in real-world AI projects, such as building chatbots and predictive models.
This comprehensive approach has been recognized as a model for integrating AI education in K-12 settings and the proof for their success is as follows:
Evidence of success includes:
- Increased Student Enrollment: More students enrolling in STEM courses.
- Improved Academic Performance: Higher test scores in math and science.
- Enhanced College Admissions: More students pursuing AI and computer science degrees.
- Recognition and Awards: Students winning regional and national competitions in AI and robotics.
What Is Next:
Montour’s goal continues to make an AI program that is inclusive for all students. The district continues to review its science and social studies curriculum, and high school students will be exploring applicable and meaningful AI options in order to prepare them for the workforce and higher education opportunities. Montour is also working to develop a playbook to share best practices with other districts while continuing to expand its AI efforts to work with all organizations in order to pursue a world where AI is used for good to help current and future generations.