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The project’s main goal is to empower K–12 educators and students in the El Paso region to design and complete meaningful, community-centered AI projects for the Presidential AI Challenge using a project-based learning (PBL) framework. By integrating authentic problems, sustained inquiry, reflection, and public presentation, the project supports teams in developing AI literacy while strengthening educators’ capacity to implement AI-integrated, student-centered instruction.

This grant is important because it helps educators and students build essential AI literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills needed in an increasingly AI-driven world. Through project-based participation in the Presidential AI Challenge, participants learn how AI systems function, how AI influences everyday life, and how AI tools can be applied thoughtfully and responsibly to address real-world challenges.

The project involves an interdisciplinary team at the University of Texas at El Paso with expertise in STEM education, AI literacy, computer science education, and teacher professional learning. K–12 AI Challenge Educator Ambassadors recruit and support participating teams. Participants include 9–15 teams of K–12 students and educators, supported by community partners, AI professionals, and a graduate research assistant.

The team is excited by the opportunity to connect AI learning to real community needs through a student-centered, collaborative model. The combination of project-based learning, coaching, and a nationally recognized AI Challenge motivates participation while supporting deep learning. The team is especially energized by empowering educators across disciplines and generating research insights that can inform scalable, equitable models for AI education nationwide.