AI Scholars Program
The AI Scholars Program brings together K-12 teachers and university students to learn about AI, build curricula and outreach projects for K-12 students, and broaden participation in computing.
Participants explore foundational AI ideas, engage with current topics in AI, and work collaboratively to create meaningful learning experiences for K-12 students.
For current details about eligibility, timelines, expectations, and program structure, view the detailed program information document.
Applications for the 2025-2026 cohort are closed. Applications for the next cohort are expected to open in Fall 2026.
About the Program
The AI Scholars program provides K-12 teachers and college students in computing, informatics, and data science degree programs with opportunities to learn about AI, engage in projects that introduce AI concepts to K-12 students, and develop leadership skills focused on broadening participation in AI.
The program is supported by the STARS Computing Core, EngageAI Institute, and the INVITE Institute.
Participants who complete the program requirements may receive a stipend of up to $1000 and may be eligible for conference travel support to present their outreach work.
Who May Be Interested
- K-12 teachers interested in learning about AI and bringing AI-related activities into their classrooms
- University students interested in AI, education, outreach, and community engagement
- Individuals interested in developing leadership and collaboration skills through outreach
- Individuals interested in designing culturally relevant, age-appropriate AI learning activities for K-12 students
- Individuals interested in connecting AI learning with real classroom practices
What Participants Do
Attend Expert Webinars
Learn about AI, outreach strategies, and teaching practices through expert-led webinars.
Interact with AI Researchers
Engage with national leaders working in artificial intelligence.
Explore AI Educational Tools
Learn about new AI tools and how they can be used in K-12 outreach.
Design Activities
Co-create age-appropriate AI learning experiences for K-12 students.
Implement Projects
Support projects in real classrooms or outreach settings.
Make Community Impact
Help expand access to AI learning in underrepresented communities.
Document and Reflect
Reflect on educational impact, collaboration, and project outcomes.
Develop Leadership
Strengthen communication, mentoring, and collaboration skills through program activities.
Program Requirements
To complete the program and receive the stipend, AI Scholars are expected to:
- Attend AI Scholars webinars focused on AI concepts, current research, and strategies for teaching AI and broadening participation in computing.
- Develop a research or curriculum project that introduces AI concepts to K-12 students.
- Deploy the project in a real classroom and collect data on student engagement and learning.
- Document and reflect on the project by writing project pitches, proposals, final reports, and self-reflections.
Program Impact
The following statistics highlight the impact of the AI Scholars program across the last two cohorts.