Episode Summary

On our first live taping of explAInED, we are on location at Hula Lakeside for the aiVermont 2nd Annual Education and AI Summit. This episode features three rich conversations about the evolving role of artificial intelligence in Vermont’s schools and communities. We begin with Burlington High School’s ethics debate team students Iris and Mac, who share thoughtful perspectives on AI as a force for change, its ethical challenges, and the need for teachers to guide rather than police its use. Next, we talk with the founders of aiVermont, Chris Thompson, Denise Shekerjian, and Marc Natanagara about their journey in building statewide AI literacy, their focus on working through teachers to reach communities, and how Vermont is setting an example in ethical AI conversations. Finally, we hear from Josiah Raiche, Vermont’s Chief Data and AI Officer, and Josh Blumberg, Educational Technology Programs Manager at the Vermont Agency of Education, as they discuss Vermont’s AI strategy, efforts to support schools with policies and guidance, and the importance of transparency, responsibility, and human-centered approaches in using AI tools.

Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, parent, or student, now is the time to engage in shaping how AI is understood and used in schools. Explore how you can help build AI literacy in your community, advocate for thoughtful policies, and support ethical, human-centered AI integration.

Resources

aiVermont – https://aivermont.org

Artificial Intelligence in Vermont – https://digitalservices.vermont.gov/ai