President Trump is set to sign an executive order to enhance AI education in K-12 schools, directing federal agencies to prioritize AI courses, teacher training, and apprenticeships. A bipartisan focus on maintaining competitiveness against China underscores the urgency. A White House Task Force on AI Education will also be established to facilitate this initiative, amidst ongoing discussions about the need for regulation.
President Donald Trump plans to unveil an executive order focused on bolstering artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 schools. This initiative, set for Wednesday, aims to guide the federal Education Department and the National Science Foundation in prioritizing grants and research on AI applications in education.
The directive will empower high school students to engage in AI courses and certificate programs, while collaborating with states to enhance AI education. Additionally, the Education Department will allocate discretionary grant funds for teacher training in AI, and the Labor Department will support apprenticeships related to this tech.
This executive order comes amid a shared concern across party lines about effectively embedding AI into education. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle worry about the U.S. lagging behind countries like China regarding technological advancement and workforce integration.
As part of this initiative, Trump will establish a White House Task Force on AI Education, featuring key members including Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Chaired by Michael Kratsios, this group intends to launch a “Presidential AI Challenge” that promotes the integration of AI in the classroom and fosters public-private partnerships to enrich K-12 educational resources.
While a bipartisan congressional report noted the necessity for AI literacy among K-12 educators, it emphasized adhering to labor and antidiscrimination laws in implementing AI in schools. The discussions on federal regulations show division, with some advocating for minimal federal intervention.
Following up on previous actions, Trump recently signed an order reversing AI regulations from former President Biden’s administration and secured a $500 billion investment from tech companies for developing new AI data centers.
On a different note, McMahon recently sparked public surprise by confusing AI with A.1. sauce during a conference speech, prompting discussions about the administration’s grasp of AI concepts. Meanwhile, challenges are brewing regarding the Education Department’s workforce reductions, with legal hearings on the horizon.
In summary, President Trump’s forthcoming executive order aims to significantly enhance AI education in K-12 schools by promoting courses and funding research. It highlights bipartisan concern over the urgency to adapt education to technological advances, despite disputes over the role of federal oversight. The establishment of a dedicated task force reveals a strategic push to ensure that American students remain competitive in a rapidly evolving workforce.
Original Source: www.usatoday.com
