National Academy for AI Instruction: How a 23 Million USD AFT Initiative to Empower K-12 Teachers in the US

There is no denying that Artificial Intelligence is not just a futuristic concept but a present-day reality. It has the potential to rapidly evolve the educational landscape and transform the classroom for the greater good. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) recognised this significant shift and launched a landmark $23 million education initiative called the National Academy for AI instruction via its official channel. This groundbreaking program has the backing of tech giants like Microsoft. OpenAI and Anthropic. The program aims to empower US K-12 teachers to ensure that they are not merely observers but active shapers of AI’s role in learning. It will also thereby foster a more personalized and engaging student experience. 

What is the National Academy for AI Instruction, and Who’s Behind It?

The American Federation of Teachers started the National Academy for AI instruction to give US educators training in K–12 AI. Moreover, it focuses on the practical and ethical integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms. Moreover, it focuses on the practical and ethical integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms.  

This ambitious program is a direct result of a significant AFT partnership with leading technology companies: Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic. The initiative includes a state-of-the-art physical campus in New York City. You can expect the instruction to begin this fall with a broader goal to expand its reach nationally and train approximately 400,000 teachers over the next five years. 

The AFT, alongside the @UFT and lead partner @Microsoft, founding partner @OpenAI, and @AnthropicAI, announced the launch of the National Academy for AI Instruction today.

Learn more: https://t.co/gAwliJBq81 pic.twitter.com/6p05hx7nJh

— AFT (@AFTunion) July 8, 2025

Why is a $23 Million Investment in Teacher AI Training Needed Now for US Schools?

This substantial $23 million commitment truly highlights an urgent truth: America's educators need to be ready for AI in the classroom. Consider this: a recent Gallup study found that six out of ten teachers are already using AI tools. It often frees up about six hours from their work week to do other tasks. However, the tricky part is, many schools have not yet set up consistent AI guidelines or provided proper training. That is exactly where this initiative steps in with the following goals:

• Bridge the knowledge gap:  We are talking about giving teachers the crucial insights and practical abilities to really make AI work for them, particularly in those areas where schools need the most support.

• Guide AI's role in learning:  This is about empowering educators to actually shape how AI is developed and applied in education, ensuring it genuinely benefits students and communities responsibly.

• Encourage thoughtful AI use:  Teachers will learn how to show students how to think critically and use AI wisely, rather than just shutting down access to this powerful technology.

• Give teachers their time back:  By having AI handle some of the administrative chores, teachers can free up valuable time to connect more directly and meaningfully with their students.

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This $23 million initiative by the AFT in collaboration with tech powerhouses marks a crucial step in proactively shaping the positive influence of AI in US K-12 education. Moreover, the National Academy for AI Instruction is going to ensure that AI serves as a powerful ally for teachers.