As part of the Silicon Valley Artificial Intelligence Project (SVAIP) initiative, KCI recently hosted a working series on February 7, 2025, bringing together educators, policymakers, and innovators to explore why AI literacy is essential for preparing students for the future. California 23rd district Assembly member Marc Berman and National Board Certified Educator Victoria Salas Salcedo joined us to present the importance of AI literacy and share insights into how schools and districts can begin integrating AI into their classrooms.

We were thrilled to welcome participants from a diverse range of schools, districts, and organizations, including:

• Cambrian School District
• Campbell Union School District
• Cupertino Union School District
• East Side Union High School District
• Escuela Popular
• Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District
• Milpitas Unified School District
• Mount Pleasant Elementary School District
• New Haven Unified School District
• Palo Alto Unified School District
• San Mateo Union High School District
• Santa Clara County Office of Education
• Sequoia Union High School District
• Silicon Valley Community Foundation
• Soledad Unified School District
• The King’s Academy
• The Tech Interactive
• Woodland School

This broad representation allowed for rich conversations about how AI can be thoughtfully and equitably integrated into education.

Why Teach AI Literacy?

Marc Berman, Assembly member for California’s 23rd District, captured the importance of this initiative: “We recognize that AI is going to have a huge impact on society and education.” His recent bill, AB 2876, focuses on integrating AI literacy into curriculum frameworks and instructional materials, paving the way for students to become informed, ethical, and critical thinkers in an AI-driven world.

Teaching AI literacy isn’t just about coding or computer science—it’s about equipping students with essential life skills. Here’s why it matters:

• Future Job Readiness: AI is reshaping every industry. Understanding AI helps students stay competitive and prepared for both tech and non-tech careers.
• Critical Thinking and Ethics: AI literacy fosters thoughtful discussions on the ethical and social implications of technology.
• Digital Citizenship: Students learn to make informed decisions about online behavior and understand how AI influences the digital landscape.
• Real-World Problem Solving: Knowledge of AI empowers students to address real-world challenges creatively.
• Adaptation to Change: In a rapidly evolving world, AI literacy equips students to embrace change with confidence.

What Does AB 2876 Mean for Schools?

AB 2876 officially adds AI literacy to the curriculum frameworks, but there’s still much work ahead. Frameworks typically update on a seven-year cycle, and while the timeline for AI literacy inclusion remains uncertain, there’s a push for earlier adoption.

Though ELA/ELD frameworks were not directly addressed in the bill, the California State Board of Education can still incorporate AI literacy into these areas. With this year’s state budget heavily focused on traditional literacy, there’s an opportunity to weave AI literacy into broader literacy goals.

Steps Schools Can Take Now

Even before the curriculum frameworks are updated, there are several ways for schools to introduce AI literacy:

• Start with Computer Science: Build a solid foundation in computational thinking to help students understand how AI works.
• Explore Free Resources: Stanford Graduate School of Education offers free AI resources for high school students.
• Leverage CDE Support: The California Department of Education is developing AI resources and offers a statewide AI group for educators.
  
  Explore CDE’s AI Resources
   

Addressing Key Questions

During the session, attendees raised important questions and shared their goals for a better understanding of AI integration:

• How will student data privacy be enforced as AI is introduced into classrooms?
• How can we use AI to support English Language Learners (ELLs) and Newcomers in Tier 1 instruction?
• What are some best practices for integrating AI as a classroom support tool instead of focusing on academic integrity violations?
• How can K-8 schools introduce AI literacy when many tools are designed for students aged 13 and older?
• What professional development and resources are available to help educators feel confident using AI in their teaching?
• What funding and strategic planning will be provided to ensure the successful rollout of AI literacy?

What Does AI Literacy Look Like in Practice?

Victoria Salas Salcedo, a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) at Rancho Milpitas Middle School, offered practical tips for integrating AI into classrooms:

• Start with the Basics: Help students understand what AI is (and what it isn’t).
• Teach Academic Honesty and Digital Citizenship: Discuss ethical AI use and introduce concepts like FERPA, COPPA, and CIPA.
• Incorporate AI into Writing Support: Use AI for personalized feedback, differentiation, and creative applications like storytelling and project-based learning.
• Explore AI-Generated Text: Teach students how to evaluate bias, recognize patterns, and avoid anthropomorphizing AI.
• Balance Productive Struggle and AI Use: Help students know when to rely on AI tools and when to persist through challenges.

Some promising AI platforms for education include Class Companion, Mirror, and Magic School.

Looking Ahead

At KCI, we remain committed to helping educators navigate the rapidly evolving world of AI. Our Silicon Valley Artificial Intelligence Project (SVAIP) is dedicated to preparing, equipping, and leading educators in the integration of AI in education.

Together, we can build an AI-literate population that contributes to national security, economic productivity, and a more equitable future.

Want to get involved or learn more? Check out the Silicon Valley Artificial Intelligence Project page to see details and view resources.