Microsoft introduces new educator program and AI tools for schools
Microsoft announced Microsoft Elevate for Educators, a global program that connects teachers and school leaders with community, training, and credentials - plus new AI features in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app at no extra cost for Education customers. The goal is simple: help educators integrate AI responsibly, save time on prep, and improve learning outcomes.
Unveiled ahead of Bett UK 2026, the updates focus on trusted, education-specific tools and practical pathways for skill-building, recognition, and classroom impact.
What the Microsoft Elevate for Educators program includes
- Global communities for K-12 educators and schools: Year-round membership, expanded training, resources, and a progressive achievement system. Districts, systems, and ministries can receive special recognition for measurable classroom impact.
- Free professional development: Self-paced courses, live sessions, and AI simulations delivered in 13+ languages through the AI Skills Navigator.
- Industry-recognized credentials: A new free credential with ISTE + ASCD aligned to the AI Literacy Framework, plus an upcoming Microsoft Certified Instructional Technologist and Coach certification.
Explore the program page and resources: Microsoft Elevate for Educators.
Limited-time student offer: Microsoft 365 Premium + LinkedIn Premium Career
Eligible college students can get 12 months free of Microsoft 365 Premium and LinkedIn Premium Career, available directly through Microsoft. This bundle includes built-in Copilot in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, extensive AI usage limits, and access to Researcher and Analyst agents.
Students also gain career tools to build skills, grow their network, and prepare for internships or entry-level roles.
New AI features for classrooms at no additional cost
- Teach in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app: Plan standards-aligned lessons fast, adapt materials to reading levels and learning needs, differentiate content, and use AI assessment support for timely, actionable feedback.
- Microsoft Learning Zone: A free, AI-based learning app and the first Copilot+ PC experience built for educators to create personalized, adaptive activities.
- Study and Learn Agent (preview later this month): A student assistant that encourages independent study, critical thinking, and reflective learning - with guidance that builds confidence, not shortcuts.
Why this matters for your school
Educators need practical ways to use AI safely and effectively. These updates bring classroom-ready tools, structured PD, and recognizable credentials under one roof - with sensible guardrails and no added licensing cost for the new features.
Quick start checklist for leaders and coaches
- Join the educator or school community and map PD to your goals for the term.
- Pilot Teach in Copilot with a small team to test lesson planning, differentiation, and assessment workflows.
- Set clear guidelines for responsible AI use and communicate them to staff, students, and families.
- Offer the student promotion to your higher-ed community and track adoption alongside academic support services.
- Plan for credentials that align with career pathways for instructional technologists and coaching roles.
Get the details
Program and resources: aka.ms/MicrosoftElevateforEducators
Microsoft's AI in education hub: aka.ms/AIforTeachingandLearning
Looking for structured AI upskilling paths?
If you need role-based course lists for staff development plans, browse curated tracks here: Complete AI Training - Courses by Job.
Your membership also unlocks:
