![OpenAI. (2025). A diverse group of students in a modern, flexible seating classroom using artificial intelligence to support their learning [AI-generated image]. DALL·E.](https://santacruzcoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/AI-students-450x450.jpg)
Image shows a diverse group of students in a modern, flexible seating classroom using artificial intelligence to support their learning [AI-generated image]. OpenAI. (2025). DALL·E.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant future—it’s shaping our daily lives right now. From personalized recommendations on streaming platforms to AI-powered medical breakthroughs, this technology is transforming how we learn, work, and connect. But as AI rapidly evolves, one question remains: Are we preparing our students to understand and navigate it?
At the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, we believe AI literacy is as essential as reading and math. That’s why we are working to ensure that every student and educator has the knowledge and skills to engage with AI responsibly and confidently. We’re doing this by:
- Bringing AI learning into classrooms – Providing students and educators with hands-on experiences through AI Think Tanks, the AI Explorers program, and YETI (Youth Empowerment through Technology and Innovation).
- Leading AI education statewide – Collaborating with Stanford, top AI companies, and education leaders to curate the best AI literacy resources.
- Driving the conversation – Representing our community at Stanford’s AI+Education Summit and the upcoming Night of Ideas in San Francisco, where we’ll discuss how AI is shaping the future of learning.
Get Involved – Two Ways to Join the Movement
March 28 – National AI Literacy Day
To support educators in bringing AI learning into their classrooms, we have developed an easy-to-use Teacher’s Guide with ready-to-go lessons for grades 3-12. These resources help students explore what AI is, how it works, and its real-world impact in an accessible and engaging way.
May 1 – AI Explorers Showcase
This hybrid event will highlight classroom educators from across Santa Cruz County (K-12) who have spent the past year integrating AI into their teaching. Attendees will hear first-hand reflections on how AI is being used in real classrooms, what worked, what challenges arose, and how educators are shaping AI literacy for the future. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or community member, this showcase offers a unique perspective on AI’s role in education today. More information and registration for this event coming soon!
AI will define the future—but we have the power to shape how it’s used and understood. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community leader, we invite you to be part of this movement. Together, we can ensure our students are not just consumers of AI but creators, innovators, and ethical decision-makers in an AI-powered world.