Focus Area

Artificial Intelligence

Strategies, resources, and professional learning to help educators navigate, implement, and lead the responsible use of AI in schools.

AI Readiness & Implementation

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming education, and the LTC is here to help your district prepare for this shift. Through a growing suite of professional learning opportunities, strategic guidance, and curated resources, we equip educators and leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate AI’s challenges and possibilities with confidence.

We also convene AI-focused conferences and communities of practice to foster collaboration and share best practices for responsible, ethical, and effective AI integration. Whether your district is just starting the conversation or looking to scale AI initiatives, the LTC provides personalized support to help you build capacity and readiness for an AI-powered future.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Toolkit

The AI Toolkit provides a starting point for exploring the responsible use of AI in K-12 education, offering curated resources on policy, training, and classroom integration.

Resources for Policy Makers

As AI reshapes education, K-12 districts need clear, actionable policies to ensure its responsible use. The LTC provides curated resources to help leaders align AI practices with district values and goals. This collection supports every phase of policy development—from assessing the current landscape to drafting and implementing effective policies. With the right tools and guidance, districts can move from high-level vision to practical action.

General AI Guidelines

Education-Focused AI Guidelines

Illinois-Specific Guidelines

Research & Landscape Surveys

District leaders need clear frameworks and examples to guide thoughtful implementation. The following resources include vetted guidance documents, instructional frameworks, and real-world exemplars to support strategic planning, staff development, and curriculum alignment.

AI Frameworks & Guidance

District and School Policies, Procedures, and Handbooks

Exemplar Districts

This section provides district leaders with curated resources to help translate broad values into actionable, evidence-based AI policies. Effective implementation depends on the informed, empowered participation of educators and staff. Even the strongest policies will fall short without support for those carrying them out in daily practice. To that end, this section also includes tools to build AI literacy, classroom strategies, and practical templates for responsible implementation.

Background

AI Frameworks

Prompt Writing Guides

Resources

Student Lessons

Student-Facing AI Tools

Citing AI-Generated Content

Instruction and Classroom Management

Professional Learning

Books

As AI reshapes education, K-12 districts need clear, actionable policies to ensure its responsible use. The LTC provides curated resources to help leaders align AI practices with district values and goals. This collection supports every phase of policy development—from assessing the current landscape to drafting and implementing effective policies. With the right tools and guidance, districts can move from high-level vision to practical action.

General AI Guidelines

Education-Focused AI Guidelines

Illinois-Specific Guidelines

Research & Landscape Surveys

District leaders need clear frameworks and examples to guide thoughtful implementation. The following resources include vetted guidance documents, instructional frameworks, and real-world exemplars to support strategic planning, staff development, and curriculum alignment.

AI Frameworks & Guidance

District and School Policies, Procedures, and Handbooks

Exemplar Districts

This section provides district leaders with curated resources to help translate broad values into actionable, evidence-based AI policies. Effective implementation depends on the informed, empowered participation of educators and staff. Even the strongest policies will fall short without support for those carrying them out in daily practice. To that end, this section also includes tools to build AI literacy, classroom strategies, and practical templates for responsible implementation.

Background

AI Frameworks

Prompt Writing Guides

Resources

Student Lessons

Student-Facing AI Tools

Citing AI-Generated Content

Instruction and Classroom Management

Professional Learning

Books

AI App Directory

Explore AI tools designed for K-12 education, organized to help educators, leaders, and staff find safe, effective solutions that support teaching, learning, and school operations.

Services, Resources and Professional Learning

Discover LTC’s services, events, articles, and resources, designed to help Illinois schools harness technology to support teaching, learning, and leadership.

Services
Consulting Professional Learning Service

AI Services for K12 School Districts

Strategic AI consulting, professional learning, governance, and implementation support to help K12 school districts adopt AI responsibly and confidently.

Various
Service

K12Smart Chat

Your district's AI-powered digital front desk, delivering instant, accurate answers to families and staff around the clock, in any language.

Professional Learning

Hi, AI! Conference

January 15-16, 2026 50
Database

Artificial Intelligence Resource Database

Vetted computer science resources geared toward a variety of grade levels, content areas, and use cases.

Events
Finding the Real Problem: A Student & Educator’s Guide to Human-Center AI

Finding the Real Problem: A Student & Educator’s Guide to Human-Center AI

Oct 19, 2026 Online Free

Who are we actually helping, and what do they really need? Join us as we dive into Human-Centered Design (HCD), a hands-on way to spot meaningful problems in your community, and brainstorm AI ideas that…

Hi, AI!

Jan 14–15, 2027 Online $65

Join the conversation as we examine the big picture – what AI means for teaching, learning, and school operations – and explore practical integration strategies you can use to immediately personalize learning, automate administrative tasks,…

Build AI Routines You’ll Actually Use Again

Build AI Routines You’ll Actually Use Again

Nov 17, 2026 Online Free

There is a better way to coordinate your favorite edtech tools. Tune in for proven strategies to connect apps, tabs, and more into seamless, predictable workflows that survive the test of a busy school year.

Closing the Loop: Human-Centered Feedback, Accessibility, and Final Polish

Nov 9, 2026 Online Free

Great projects aren't finished on the first try; they grow stronger through iteration. Learn how to refine your Illinois AI Challenge project using Human-Centered Design, with a focus on user testing, incorporating feedback, and making…

The AI Toolbox: Creating, Designing, and Prototyping your Challenge Project

The AI Toolbox: Creating, Designing, and Prototyping your Challenge Project

Nov 2, 2026 Online Free

Explore how to combine Google Gemini, Google AI Studio, Copilot, Canva, and MagicSchool to research, design, and prototype your Illinois AI Challenge competition submission. See how these tools work together to take your team's concept…

Building AI Literacy: Smart Prompting, Safe Data, and Better Results

Oct 26, 2026 Online Free

We’re popping open the hood of modern AI tools to explore how they process information, how to protect privacy, and how to get the absolute best results out of your prompts. Part of a series…

AI as your Teaching Superpower

Sep 30, 2026 Salem, IL Free

Which superpower would you choose for your school day—super strength, invisibility, or an AI-powered workflow that cuts your prep time in half? AI isn’t making our classrooms obsolete, but learning to steer this tool right…

The Hidden Cost of Innovation: An Educator’s Guide to AI Ethics, Privacy, Impact

Sep 25, 2026 Carmi, IL $25

As AI reshapes the classroom, we must look beyond the hype to address the risks it poses to students and society. This session provides a critical deep dive into the urgent limitations of generative AI,…

AI for Teachers: Reclaim Your Time

Sep 25, 2026 Carmi, IL $25

This workshop introduces teachers to practical AI tools for creating lesson plans, assessments, and parent communication. We'll focus on how to leverage AI to automate routine tasks, giving you back valuable time in your busy…

Supercharge Your Classroom! Differentiate & Scaffold with Gemini

Supercharge Your Classroom! Differentiate & Scaffold with Gemini

Oct 22, 2026 Online Free

Instantly differentiate lessons, break down tough concepts, and create targeted supports with your new classroom co-pilot + discover how to use Gemini to design targeted scaffolds tailored to your grade level and subject area.

AI for ELA: Crafting Compelling Content & Critical Readers

Nov 5, 2026 Murphysboro, IL $25

This workshop is designed for English Language Arts teachers ready to leverage Artificial Intelligence for practical classroom applications and responsible integration.

A Leader’s Guide to School-Wide AI Implementation (AA 4229)

Oct 7, 2026 Washington $206

This Administrator Academy (#4229) is for leaders ready to move beyond isolated AI tools and develop a cohesive, long-term vision for artificial intelligence in their school or district.

Tech Treks: Top Teacher Tools in MagicSchool

Tech Treks: Top Teacher Tools in MagicSchool

Oct 20, 2026 Online Free

Which MagicSchool tools are worth your time? Follow along as we demo five of the most popular tools with teachers nationwide + try out each while creating a resource that's immediately relevant to your classroom…

Unlocking the Google Gemini Ecosystem for Educators

Oct 14, 2026 Marion, IL $20

If your district is a Google school, you already have access to a powerful AI ecosystem. The challenge isn't finding another AI tool—it's unlocking the full potential of the one you already have.

A Leader’s Guide to School-Wide AI Implementation (AA 4229)

Oct 8, 2026 Macomb, Illinois $100

This Administrator Academy (#4229) is for leaders ready to move beyond isolated AI tools and develop a cohesive, long-term vision for artificial intelligence in their school or district.

Microsoft and AI Conversations: Showcase and Updates

Sep 29, 2026 Online Free

Calling all Microsoft districts in Illinois! You're invited to a virtual showcase of Microsoft's AI tools, including practice use cases currently transforming classrooms.

AI for Social Studies: Navigating Narratives & Building Citizens

Oct 27, 2026 Online Free

This virtual workshop is for social studies teachers ready to harness AI for critical inquiry and dynamic engagement.

AI for ELA: Crafting Compelling Content & Critical Readers

Oct 6, 2026 Online Free

This virtual workshop is designed for English language arts teachers ready to leverage artificial intelligence for practical classroom applications and responsible integration.

Articles
“Pushing Our Work Beyond the Classroom” A Conversation with a Student AI Innovator
Artificial Intelligence

“Pushing Our Work Beyond the Classroom” A Conversation with a Student AI Innovator

Winners of the inaugural Illinois AI Challenge share what inspired their project, what they learned from their experience, and how AI is impacting their educational life.

Chicago Students’ Healthcare Solution Wins Illinois AI Challenge
Artificial Intelligence

Chicago Students’ Healthcare Solution Wins Illinois AI Challenge

Students from Walter Payton College Preparatory High School earned recognition for their AI-powered solution for optimizing patient triage at local health clinics.

AI Policies are Only the Start
Artificial Intelligence

AI Policies are Only the Start

An AI in education expert joins us to cut through the hype and reveal what AI policy really needs: a shift from policing plagiarism to building AI literacy for life.

Microsoft Announces New Academic Offering for Microsoft 365 Copilot
Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft Announces New Academic Offering for Microsoft 365 Copilot

Microsoft has announced an exciting update for educational institutions: a new academic-specific offering for Microsoft 365 Copilot, launching December 2025.

AI Tour Guides and Student Projects
Artificial Intelligence

AI Tour Guides and Student Projects

AI in the classroom doesn’t have to be intimidating. Our guest highlights how AI-guided virtual field trips and project-based assessments can help students create, explore, and think in fresh ways.

How a Special Ed Class Built an AI Solution
Artificial Intelligence

How a Special Ed Class Built an AI Solution

Special education students, guided by teacher Sarah Bird and coach Patricia Ferris, built an AI tool to support OT exercises—showcasing how risk-taking, collaboration, and strong networks can turn real-world challenges…

Why AI Needs a Little “Friction” for Deep Learning in Our Schools
Artificial Intelligence

Why AI Needs a Little “Friction” for Deep Learning in Our Schools

AI can make learning “frictionless,” but real growth comes from struggle. Discover the C.O.R.E. and H.E.A.R.T. frameworks—tools to reintroduce productive friction and keep students thinking critically in an AI-driven world.

Finding In-Roads: My District’s Practical Progress toward AI Adoption
Artificial Intelligence

Finding In-Roads: My District’s Practical Progress toward AI Adoption

AI's importance in schools is growing, but earning educators buy-in is an open question. These intentional strategies helped me connect with my teachers and offer them a practical pathway to…

AI How and Why: Pairing SEL and AI to Support Student Growth
Artificial Intelligence

AI How and Why: Pairing SEL and AI to Support Student Growth

Your favorite chatbot can make social-emotional growth achievable in your classroom without extra heavy lifting. Try out these activities that encourage students to self-reflect and check-in with their feelings.

AI How and Why: Avoiding AI Plagiarism at School
Artificial Intelligence

AI How and Why: Avoiding AI Plagiarism at School

Academic integrity isn’t a new concern for teachers, but AI is making many think twice about plagiarism. Preventing it is challenging, but you can learn to avoid it, starting with…

Instant Student Feedback with AI
Artificial Intelligence

Instant Student Feedback with AI

Why wait? Instant feedback is a reality in today's classrooms − and it can transform learning into an active, student-driven experience. A digital trailblazer explains how and explores AI's impact…

AI How and Why: Is AI Leading K-12’s Future or Are We?
Artificial Intelligence

AI How and Why: Is AI Leading K-12’s Future or Are We?

The printing press, the internet, and smartphones all transformed what it means to teach and learn. Was that change inevitable? And does AI's arrival foreshadow it becoming a centerpiece of…

AI How and Why: Addressing AI-Generated Images in Schools
Artificial Intelligence

AI How and Why: Addressing AI-Generated Images in Schools

With a clear risk for misuse and bullying, the growing presence of AI images in schools is more than a technology issue. It’s a human issue, and educators need to…

11 Questions to Ask Before using AI in the Classroom
Artificial Intelligence

11 Questions to Ask Before using AI in the Classroom

Before jumping on the AI bandwagon, educators need to ask these questions to ensure this emerging technology helps—not hinders—student learning.

9 Powerful Ways Districts Can Engage Parents in AI Education
Artificial Intelligence

9 Powerful Ways Districts Can Engage Parents in AI Education

Parents want to know how AI will impact their child's learning. These strategies can help districts build trust and clear up misunderstandings as AI enters the classroom.

Anticipating Illinois’ Guidance on AI in Schools
Artificial Intelligence

Anticipating Illinois’ Guidance on AI in Schools

At the start of 2025, Illinois' AI task force will release recommendations for use in multiple sectors – including education. Here's how their recommendations may impact statewide guidance for AI…

Developing Human and AI Intelligence with Matt Miller
Artificial Intelligence

Developing Human and AI Intelligence with Matt Miller

AI is here to stay. So, what’s next? Author and educator Matt Miller joins us to explore how AI is reshaping teaching right here, right now and remind us about…

AI for Everyone with Dr. Monica Burns
Artificial Intelligence

AI for Everyone with Dr. Monica Burns

AI has arrived in the classroom! Let's talk about how educator can harness it for productive learning with Dr. Monica Burns + AI-enhanced apps and tools you can reach for…

4 Ways to Harness AI-Powered Learning with ILTPP Vendor Partners
Artificial Intelligence

4 Ways to Harness AI-Powered Learning with ILTPP Vendor Partners

Keeping up with the latest AI-powered solutions can feel overwhelming. Here are four trusted ILTPP Vendor Partners you can turn to when your district wants to harness AI to unleash…

Discover AI’s Present & Future in Education @ IETC 2023
Artificial Intelligence

Discover AI’s Present & Future in Education @ IETC 2023

There is a lot of buzz around AI right now – especially in the K-12 education community. At IETC 2023, you can cut through the buzz and start a conversation…

ChatGPT in the Classroom: 5 Strategies for K-12 Educators
Artificial Intelligence

ChatGPT in the Classroom: 5 Strategies for K-12 Educators

Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. To keep our classrooms relevant to today's learners, we need find ways to harness its power to create robust, personalized learning experiences.