Transforming Education Through an Innovative AI Literacy Course for K-12 Educators

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly embedded in modern society, there is a growing need to integrate AI literacy into K-12 education. This paper explores the development of a professional development initiative designed to equip K-12 educators with foundational AI knowledge, ethical considerations, and practical applications. The course draws on insights from librarians and educators to address the unique needs of K-12 settings, moving beyond traditional training courses by incorporating evidence-based professional development frameworks. The course includes modular content on AI literacy, ethical challenges, curriculum integration, and assessment strategies, providing educators with tools to introduce AI into their classrooms. The course’s impact extends beyond individual educators, fostering a collaborative virtual learning community to prepare students and teachers for an AI-driven future. This initiative addresses the pressing need for AI literacy and contributes to the growing body of resources for AI education in primary and secondary schools, helping to shape a generation capable of engaging critically and ethically with AI technologies.