Artificial intelligence is transforming industries worldwide, and education is no exception. At the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) 2025 in Orlando, Florida, district leaders and education technology specialists discussed how AI can be successfully integrated into K–12 education. The conference highlighted strategies and experiences from districts that have embraced AI tools to enhance learning and streamline operations.
For many educators, AI is both an exciting opportunity and a daunting challenge. The rapid pace of technological change can feel overwhelming, particularly for teachers and staff who are unfamiliar with these tools. District leaders emphasized the importance of intentionality when introducing AI into schools, focusing on building support, fostering enthusiasm, and addressing educators’ concerns.
One approach shared at the conference emphasized the role of leadership in promoting AI adoption. At Eastport-South Manor Central School District in New York, strong support from Superintendent Joseph A. Steimel was instrumental in advancing the district’s AI initiatives. Steimel, described as a visionary leader, tasked his team with developing a plan to incorporate AI tools effectively. Drawing inspiration from resources like Matt Miller’s book AI for Educators, district leaders engaged administrators in discussions, quizzes, and demonstrations to build awareness and understanding.
The district also invested in advanced Google Gemini licenses for administrators, ensuring that school and department leaders could explore the technology firsthand. This approach allowed administrators to guide teachers in using AI tools effectively. To support educators at all levels, the district implemented after-school professional learning sessions tailored to specific grade levels and roles. By addressing the diverse needs of teachers and administrators, the district created a supportive environment for AI integration.
In Miami-Dade County Public Schools, a different strategy proved effective. Curriculum Support Specialists Susan Leyva-Bostick and Jeannette Tejeda designed the AI Institute, an exclusive training program for district employees. They began by conducting a needs assessment to identify areas where teachers and staff needed support. This feedback informed the creation of a specialized training program open only to a select group of participants. The exclusivity of the program made it highly sought-after, and participants who completed the training earned a district-specific micro-credential.
The AI Institute initially trained 200 teachers and later expanded to include a summer cohort of 100 support staff members. By the end of the program, nearly 450 participants had gained valuable insights into AI tools and applications. Graduates of the program became ambassadors for AI within their schools, sharing their knowledge with colleagues and fostering a culture of innovation.
Leyva-Bostick and Tejeda emphasized the importance of maintaining the program’s exclusivity to sustain its appeal. Sessions were conducted live, with no recordings shared, ensuring participants remained engaged. This approach not only generated excitement around AI but also allowed district leaders to identify potential future leaders within the system.
Both districts highlighted the importance of meeting educators where they are. While some teachers were eager to embrace AI, others were hesitant or resistant. Leaders emphasized the need to build trust, provide space for experimentation, and demonstrate the practical benefits of AI tools. By addressing teachers’ concerns and providing hands-on support, districts were able to foster greater acceptance and enthusiasm for AI.
The discussions at FETC 2025 underscored the transformative potential of AI in education. From enhancing student engagement to streamlining administrative processes, AI offers numerous benefits for schools. However, its successful implementation requires thoughtful planning, collaboration, and a commitment to addressing the needs of educators and students.
As AI technology continues to evolve, district leaders must remain adaptable, finding creative ways to integrate these tools while addressing concerns about privacy, equity, and ethics. By sharing their experiences and strategies, the leaders at FETC 2025 provided valuable insights for other districts seeking to embrace the possibilities of AI in K–12 education.
