AI Schools Log On

Fifth grader McKayla’s favorite subject is history. At her school, it’s not taught by a teacher. It’s taught by AI. McKayla goes to an Alpha School in Palo Alto, California. These are private schools built on an AI-powered learning model × model structure; example (noun) .

Many school districts are cutting back on classroom tech. Public schools in Los Angeles, California, have strict new limits on screen time. On September 2, New York City announced it would ban AI in public elementary and middle schools. But the network of Alpha Schools is growing. There were 12 of them last school year. By the end of this school year, there will be 50.

GROUP SESSION Alpha School students collaborate while taking a break from their individual AI-learning programs.

School Rules

At an Alpha School, students still sit in classrooms. But there are no teachers. Classrooms are led by adult guides. They supervise as students finish their lessons on their own. Students use computers with AI software. It teaches standard subjects such as math and writing for two hours a day.

McKayla enjoys Alpha’s “life skills workshops.” These make up most of the school day. The workshops are taught by experts or guides. They teach kids skills such as finance and public speaking. Tasha Arnold is head of Alpha Schools. She says AI allows students to get the standard subjects done quickly. That’s what makes the workshops possible. “You’re getting what you need academically in a very concise × consise short; efficient (adjective) amount of time,” Arnold told TFK.

There are lots of ways to learn, with or without screens. McKayla says AI is “a really fun way to learn” that lets kids go at their own pace. Other students prefer a more traditional classroom. What do you think?