Education Technology

Year in review: Our top stories of 2025

We bring to you the five most popular articles of 2025, allowing you to reconnect with the stories that inspired superintendents' decision-making amid one of the most tumultuous years for public education.

Here is what early AI adopters are learning

Not every district has written AI guidance. But many can share innovative strategies to get the most out of the technology.

How AI will create new K12 opportunities in 2026

In 2026, we'll see everything from increased superintendent vacancies to new, innovative student support strategies.

How Coursera’s latest move shakes up the upskilling movement

High school graduates now have more alternatives to develop skills for the workforce as online options evolve.

Your state’s AI laws might be irrelevant, feds say

A draft executive order would block states from regulating AI, despite the passage of sweeping measures to protect students from harmful AI-generated content.

OpenAI unveils ChatGPT for Teachers—for free

The new AI teaching assistant serves only your district, restricting the chatbot from using district data to train its model.

Here is how to define screen time more precisely

Smartphones and social media, edtech and screen-based entertainment carry different risks and opportunities.

How to better fund teaching with technology

Funds are often allocated for short-term or compliance-driven activities, rather than to boost educators' skills

Why your AI policies should read more like guidelines

"The most effective guidelines encourage critical thinking, center the human decision-making and allow for nuance," says Ken Shelton, an edtech thought leader and featured speaker at the 2026 Future of Education Technology Conference.

These districts are spearheading AI policy

With the help of their students, districts are warming up to the idea that AI can enhance learning and instruction.

Here are 5 steps for connecting students’ passion with purpose

A happy, passionate student is an engaged student, says one expert. His project-based learning framework helps schools build such students.

5 concerns students now have about AI

Students worry they'll be accused of cheating while teachers say they aren't receiving enough PD, new research finds

Not all AI is geared for supporting mental health

District leaders must vet purpose-built AI solutions that aim to meet whatever gaps exist in their schools—including student mental health.

The non-instructional ways schools are using AI

Tech leaders are focused on using AI for more than just instruction. The legality of implementing AI remains a challenge.

Why cell phone bans are worth the pushback

Once schools get past the initial spike in disciplinary referrals, leaders will see improvements in test scores, new research confirms.

How to use AI to support learning differences

For starters, it's a good idea to utilize AI platforms that existed before the AI surge in 2022, says one expert.

The top 3 reasons K12 ransomware attacks succeed in education

Phishing has become the most reported tactic for attacks. Here are some ways to strengthen your defenses.

Students now say AI’s potential comes at a price

AI is being used for more than instruction, including for romantic relationships with the technology, new research suggests.

Free AI tools this superintendent wants you to use

Masters guides us through some practical ways of leveraging Google's NotebookLM in ways that are human-centered and research-based to improve academic outcomes.

Digital literacy starts at home—but schools can help

A new and free curriculum helps schools and parents equip students with safe, effective online habits.

The Future of Student Transportation: Delivering Safe, Smarter Experiences with AI

Date & Time: Tuesday, November 4th at 2 p.m. ET

In this 30-minute Ed Talk, see how AI can transform the school ride into something more than a trip, but into a trusted extension of your classroom that ensures every child you serve—from McKinney-Vento students to daily riders—arrives and leaves school safely, on time, and reliably.

These 2 states are spearheading K12 cybersecurity legislation

State leaders are stepping up to address cybersecurity concerns amid dwindling federal support, new research suggests.

A look at Broward County’s record-breaking AI integration

The district is currently leading the world's largest integration of Microsoft Copilot, and it's already improving instruction.

Shift happens: designing student-centered classrooms with AI and tech

Technology is “a lever for equity and empowerment—not just for students, but for educators, too,” says Whitney Criswell, Leadhership speaker and digital learning coach.

We’re past the AI ‘hype,’ and that’s a good thing

AI is best implemented from a place of encouragement. Here how three leaders are getting their teams to embrace the technology.

Why this tech director encourages AI use in her district

Jamie Haug moves past the "noise" about cheating to show how AI can fit into various aspects of K12 education.

How to build a future-ready district with AI

If you're on the fence about AI, this superintendent recommends starting small with a team of teachers, IT staff, curriculum leaders and principals to vet new tools.

Educating With AI in the Classroom Series

Educating With AI in the Classroom Series

Don’t miss this fall’s must-attend AI in education series. In three powerful sessions, global experts Jos Dirkx, Jon Bergmann, and Catlin Tucker will reveal how AI is rewriting curriculum and pedagogy, raising the bar for mastery learning, and making personalization real for each student. This is your chance to see how schools can harness AI to accelerate growth, empower teachers, and transform learning right now.

Study flags safety risks of Meta AI chatbots

Testing revealed that the chatbots failed to provide adequate guidance or crisis resources when a user disclosed self-harm.

Safe AI Learning Spaces: Securing Student Exploration in the Age of AI

Date & Time: Thursday, October 9th at 2 p.m. ET

This thought-provoking 30-minute Ed Talk explores the emerging landscape of AI in education, examining best practices, regulatory considerations, and strategic frameworks for creating secure learning environments that harness AI's potential while protecting our most vulnerable users.

How a superintendent can see the tech perspective

Dr. Barbara Mullen has seen firsthand the challenges that impact IT and believes cross-sector collaboration is the answer.

This IT leader wants to share the success of his new microschool

Chief Information Officer Rob Dickson also laid the groundwork for his district's AI policy. You can learn about his achievements at FETC 2026.

How to start the year off strong with new tech

Leaders must learn to work closely with vendors to ensure smooth edtech implementation, says one leader.

Worried about cheating? Research finds new risks posed by AI

Users can quickly find tips on self-harm, suicide planning, disordered eating and substance abuse, research finds.

New K12 funding for AI education is now available

The National Science Foundation seeks to expand resources for artificial intelligence education while preparing students for an AI-driven workforce.