Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just something out of a sci-fi movie anymore; it’s shaping how we live, learn, and work every single day. And while students are already interacting with AI-powered tools, apps, and platforms, many teachers are still wondering: How do I teach this? Where do I even start? Code.org stepped in with a powerful answer: the AI Foundations Workshop, a nationwide professional development experience designed to help teachers make sense of the rapidly growing world of AI and bring it confidently into their classrooms. As AI began transforming industries, communication, and even classroom routines, Code.org recognized a growing need: teachers wanted to understand AI, not just as users, but as educators. The organization developed this workshop to give teachers the conceptual understanding, practical tools, and curriculum-ready strategies necessary to help students explore AI safely, thoughtfully, and creatively.
The workshop’s goal is simple: demystify AI. Teachers leave with lesson plans, sample classroom activities, and clear frameworks for helping students think critically about technology. The workshop doesn’t assume prior computer science experience; it meets teachers exactly where they are and builds confidence step by step. Through hands-on activities and guided discussions, teachers explore machine learning, algorithms, training data, generative AI, bias and fairness, ethical considerations, and real-world applications. Code.org is helping shape students who understand AI instead of fearing it, question technology thoughtfully, become creators not just consumers, and approach future careers with confidence. AI literacy is becoming as essential as reading and math, and Code.org wants to ensure every student has access to it.
This past summer, LSU hosted two national AI Foundations Workshops with teacher participants from 10 different states. Local Louisiana-trained facilitators guided educators through the content, showcasing the state’s leadership in expanding AI education nationwide. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees said they left with a stronger sense of confidence, not just in teaching AI, but in discussing it with students, parents, and colleagues. A teacher who once avoided any mention of AI because she felt unqualified walked out ready to lead a school-wide conversation on ethical AI use. She later helped develop a student-led AI art project with colleagues. That’s the kind of transformation this workshop is sparking.
Code.org continues to walk alongside teachers through professional learning, updated resources and lessons, community spaces for teachers to share successes and ideas, and new materials that evolve with classroom needs. The goal is long-term support, not a one-and-done workshop session. They see a future where AI education is foundational for all students and encourage teachers to start small and stay curious. You don’t need to be an expert to teach AI; you just need a willingness to learn alongside your students.
If you’re a teacher ready to explore AI, build new skills, and bring exciting, real-world learning into your classroom, the AI Foundations Workshop is a perfect place to start. Learn more at https://code.org/en-US/curriculum/artificial-intelligence-foundations.
