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Superintendents attending the Superintendents Webcast on Feb. 10 received a comprehensive update from the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) regarding its expanding collection of resources and initiatives concerning artificial intelligence (AI) in education. A key component of this update was the introduction of a proposed coaching model, specifically designed to equip and support school districts across Kentucky in the effective and responsible implementation of AI technologies within their educational frameworks. This effort reflects KDE's commitment to integrating advanced digital tools into the K-12 curriculum and operational efficiencies, while also ensuring that human oversight and ethical considerations remain paramount throughout the process. The presentation also touched upon funding requests aimed at bolstering these technological advancements and educational support systems statewide.
Marty Park, KDE’s chief digital officer, detailed how the current presentation on AI builds upon previous discussions held with superintendents during the January 13 Superintendents Webcast. He emphasized the department’s ongoing development of extensive AI resources, all accessible through the dedicated ‘AI in Kentucky K-12 webpage’. This online hub serves as a central point for guidance, academic standards, support materials for both teachers and students, insights into emerging innovations, and opportunities for professional development related to artificial intelligence. A significant resource highlighted was KDE’s ‘AI in Action Across Kentucky quick list document,’ which provides a concise overview of these critical areas. Furthermore, Park outlined KDE’s specific budgetary requests to state lawmakers. These requests include a crucial baseline funding increase for the Kentucky Education Technology System (KETS), which is vital for maintaining and upgrading the technological infrastructure essential for modern education. Additionally, KDE is seeking an extra $800,000 in funding to establish a statewide implementation network dedicated to professional learning and student demonstrations, with a broad focus across all academic content areas. Park underscored the strategic intent behind these financial requests, stating that the overarching goal is to foster, encourage, and empower the safe, secure, and responsible integration of AI. This integration aims to enhance school efficiency and enrich the learning experiences for both teachers and students, always with the fundamental principle of ensuring that human involvement and ethical decision-making remain central to all AI implementations. The KETS funding increase is specifically earmarked to support a digital learning coach network, which will provide continuous assistance for AI strategies statewide. It will also help library media specialists in creating AI-based engagement activities. Moreover, this funding is intended to aid KDE in incorporating AI into the existing Kentucky Academic Standards for Technology, boosting industry certifications in computer science for AI development, and supporting programs like the Student Technology Leadership Program and the Kentucky Technology Student Association as they embed AI best practices into their educational activities and learning experiences. The additional $800,000 requested is crucial for the creation of a statewide “Using AI” implementation model. This model envisions the deployment of three regional field-based AI implementation coaches who will collaborate closely with content specialists within school districts. They will also leverage existing professional learning networks and work alongside regional education cooperatives to design and deliver specialized, AI-centered professional development opportunities for educators. Park described this approach as a "scale-and-sustain strategy," a proven method that KDE believes will be highly effective in expanding artificial intelligence capabilities throughout Kentucky’s educational system in secure, ethical, and responsible manners.
The upcoming "All In for Ag Education Week" is scheduled to take place from March 16-20, representing a significant collaborative effort designed to elevate agricultural education across Kentucky. This initiative is a joint venture between the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE), the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and the office of Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman. Its primary aim is to deliver a holistic and immersive learning experience for students, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse facets of agriculture. Concurrently, the program focuses on empowering educators by supplying them with readily usable lesson plans and resources that align with academic standards. A crucial aspect of the initiative is fostering community involvement, which is essential for creating dynamic and engaging learning opportunities that connect students with the real-world applications of agriculture. Bethany Mattingly, director of agriculture education and outreach at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, provided an encouraging update on the initiative's progress over the past year. She highlighted a notable 21% increase in the number of counties participating in "All In for Ag Education Week" from the spring of 2025 to the fall of 2025, demonstrating growing momentum and success. Mattingly attributed this significant growth to a collective effort involving schools, superintendents, educators across the state, and the broader agricultural community. She emphasized that such expansion would not have been possible without the dedicated support of these various stakeholders. Superintendents were introduced to several new lesson plan resources and innovative curriculum ideas meticulously developed by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture in close collaboration with KDE. These resources are specifically designed to complement Kentucky’s academic standards across a wide array of subjects, ensuring that agricultural education is integrated into the broader curriculum. A standout example of these new resources is a detailed guide on how to facilitate a "Build a Better Burger" project-based learning challenge. This engaging project requires students to navigate real-world agricultural issues, from understanding sustainable farming practices to promoting food safety, all while creating a burger that proudly showcases local ingredients. Beyond curriculum enhancements, this year’s "All In for Ag Education Week" also features expanded opportunities for experiential learning. This includes a greater emphasis on field trips and hands-on laboratory experiences tailored for elementary school students. Furthermore, more professional development opportunities are being made available for educators during the summer months, ensuring they are well-equipped to deliver high-quality agricultural instruction. A notable event for students will be a virtual tour of Compton Dairy in Adair County, scheduled for March 17. This virtual experience will be complemented by a live question-and-answer panel session with the farm owner, allowing students to gain direct insights into a career in agriculture. Comprehensive resources and additional information about "All In for Ag Education Week" can be found on the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s dedicated website. The initiative is held twice annually, in both spring and fall, with the 2026 fall schedule already set for September 21-25.