Allentown, PA - (December 19, 2024) —The Allentown School District is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Google and Kiker Learning, aimed at equipping educators, administrators, and students with cutting-edge tools and knowledge to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies in education. This partnership underscores the District’s commitment to preparing its students for a dynamic future while empowering staff to lead in a world increasingly shaped by innovation and AI.
This initiative builds upon the district’s ongoing efforts to foster innovation. Superintendent Dr. Carol D. Birks, a 2024-25 Google GSV Education Innovation Fellow, has spearheaded a district-wide Innovation Committee tasked with crafting forward-thinking policies to integrate AI safely and effectively into educational practices. As part of this effort, legal experts have provided district leaders with comprehensive training on the ethical considerations and safeguards necessary for AI implementation. The partnership with Google and Kiker Learning represents the next critical step in this journey, bringing expert-led training directly to the District’s educators and administrators.
“AI and innovative technologies are transforming the way we live, work, and learn,” said Dr. Carol D. Birks. “Our collaboration with Google and Kiker Learning equips our District’s leaders, educators, and staff with the tools and knowledge needed to safely and effectively use these advancements to benefit our students, families, and staff. Together, we are building an education system that leads in innovation while keeping equity, ethics, and academic integrity at the forefront.”
“Technology and innovation are the cornerstones of a modern education system,” said Superintendent Dr. Carol D. Birks. “This collaboration with Google and Kiker Learning allows us to prepare our students for the opportunities of tomorrow while fostering a culture of adaptability and leadership among our educators and administrators. Together, we are transforming learning environments and equipping our community to evolve within an ever changing digital landscape.”
Training for Success: Building Capacity Across the District
This partnership includes a series of professional development sessions designed to empower district leaders, administrators, and educators with skills and strategies to integrate technology and AI into their roles effectively. Key elements of the initiative include:
- “Leading in a World of Gemini AI” (December 10, 2024 - December 11, 2024): A hands-on session for administrators and assistant principals focused on AI’s potential in education, strategies for implementation, and ethical considerations. Clerical staff received this training as well as a deep dive into the tools offered by the Google Suite.
- Policy and Leadership Development: The Allentown School District’s Innovation Committee is actively shaping policies to guide AI adoption while ensuring student safety, academic integrity, and equitable access.
- Certification Opportunities: IT professionals will receive specialized training through the Professional ChromeOS Administrator Certification Program, enhancing their ability to secure and manage the district’s digital infrastructure.
- Next Steps: Plans are underway to extend training to educators, fostering district-wide engagement with innovative tools and platforms. The first of these sessions are scheduled for our Monday, January 27, 2024, Professional Learning Day.
Collaboration Highlights
- Customized Learning Opportunities: The partnership is designed to address the unique needs of the District’s staff, including tailored sessions on Google Workspace, certification programs, and AI-specific modules for math teachers.
- Focus on Ethical and Personalized Learning: Topics such as academic integrity, internet safety, and AI’s role in personalized and immersive learning experiences (e.g., AR and VR) will be covered.
- Hands-On Engagement: Trainers from Kiker Learning, including experts in AI and Google Workspace, will facilitate sessions aimed at both administrators and educators, fostering a collaborative and future-focused environment.
This partnership reflects the District’s new Strategic Plan, which prioritizes workforce development, universal access to technology, and creating forward-looking educational pathways. By incorporating AI and other innovative technologies into daily operations and classroom practices, ASD is preparing students to lead in a global economy while ensuring staff and leaders are equipped with the knowledge to navigate these advancements responsibly.
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