(Tallahassee, FL, Sept. 1) Artificial intelligence is already changing how school systems think about instruction, assessment, operations, communication, and decision-making.
Six Florida districts are stepping into that work together through SPARK, Supporting Practical AI for Real K-12 Classrooms, a new 18-month statewide initiative designed to help districts build thoughtful, responsible approaches to AI in education.
SPARK is led by Impact Florida in partnership with the University of Florida’s CSEveryone Center, in collaboration with Microsoft and Google.
The districts selected for the SPARK cadre are:
Broward County Public Schools
Citrus County School District
School District of Manatee County
School District of Palm Beach County
Polk County Public Schools
Putnam County School District, in partnership with NEFEC
“At a time when technology is rapidly transforming education, we are honored that the School District of Manatee County was selected as one of only six districts in Florida to participate in the SPARK initiative. This recognition reflects the innovation, forward-thinking leadership, and commitment to continuous improvement that define our district," said Superintendent Dr. Laurie Breslin. "As we continue accelerating Manatee Momentum, this opportunity ensures our students and educators will be at the forefront of emerging technologies while maintaining a strong focus on responsibility, ethics, and student success. We are excited to help lead this important work and contribute to a model that can benefit school districts across Florida."
Through SPARK, district teams will work on both policy governance and practice. They’ll develop or refine guidance related to ethics, data privacy, procurement, academic integrity, and responsible use while also testing practical instructional approaches rooted in real classroom needs.
District leaders are making important decisions about AI while many systems are still building shared language, policies, professional learning, and clear communication with families and communities.
“AI is changing education faster than ever before, and districts shouldn't have to navigate that change alone,” says Dr. Nadine Ebri, who is leading the work. “Through SPARK, we're creating a collaborative space where district leaders can learn from one another, build coherent systems, and develop thoughtful approaches that put students, educators, and communities at the center of AI implementation.”
We’re grateful to these six districts for leading with care, curiosity, and a clear focus on students and educators. Their work will help generate lessons, tools, and examples that can support other Florida school districts as they navigate similar questions in the months ahead.
Learn more, visit: https://impactfl.org/our-work/programs/spark