NSF Grant Funds NAAIC Expansion Into High School AI Education
The National Applied AI Consortium received a $299,990 grant from the National Science Foundation to bring AI education into high schools. The move extends workforce preparation earlier in the education pipeline, before students reach community college or university.
NAAIC, led by Miami Dade College, Houston City College, and Maricopa Community Colleges, has focused on community college faculty and students. This expansion targets high school teachers, who will receive professional development, curriculum materials, and access to a national network of educators teaching AI.
What Teachers Will Get
The initiative will support more than 600 high school teachers with free professional development. NAAIC will provide teaching materials, a resource hub with instructional artifacts, and industry-aligned curriculum starting this summer.
Teachers will also access self-guided certifications developed with industry and educational partners. The goal is to help educators build confidence teaching AI concepts and connecting students to college pathways and career options.
Why High Schools Matter Now
High school is where students decide whether to pursue technical fields. By introducing AI concepts earlier, NAAIC aims to build interest before students choose college majors.
Dr. Amy Rubinson, K-12 AI Director at NAAIC, said in a statement: "Preparing America's future workforce for the age of AI is urgent, and it starts with teachers. By expanding training and resources for high school educators, NAAIC helps teachers build the confidence to bring AI into the classroom, motivating thousands of students to pursue AI college pathways and future careers."
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