Ignited

From human impact to high-tech systems, our teachers explored AI from every angle this week.

Over the past five days, ~20 educators learned how AI works, how to teach it responsibly, and how to build durable skills like communication and critical thinking that can help students thrive in today's rapidly evolving workforce.

Through experiences across the Bay Area, AI came to life:

✨Markkula Center for Applied Ethics – exploring AI ethics and robotics
✨John Deere – seeing autonomous tractors in action with Blue River Technology
✨GreenWaste – touring AI-powered waste sorting
✨Micron Technology – hearing about career journeys and hiring pathways
✨KQED – examining generative AI and student voice
✨OpenAI – learning how AI is transforming the economy and the future of work
✨San Jose Public Library – exploring AI library resources

Teachers also heard from experts like Dr. Ethel Tshukudu and Steven Kramer, and even built their own AI apps with WestEd!

Thank you to our funders—the U.S. National Science Foundation (via our partnership with Ohlone College), Synopsys Outreach Foundation, Nokia, and Electrify America—for making this program possible.

And to our incredible cohort of educators: we can't wait to see how you bring this back to your classrooms!