After securing a $4 million grant, the Public Schools of Robeson County in North Carolina, specifically in ROBESON COUNTY, will be integrating artificial intelligence into its middle school art curriculum. This initiative is made possible through the FRACTAL program funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
As part of a summer camp, teachers will have the opportunity to undergo AI training and guide students in the assembly of their own computers. FRACTAL, which stands for Additional Rural Adoption of Computer and Technology Through Artistic Lessons, aims to bring innovative technology into the educational setting.
Susan Miller-Hendrix, the technology supervisor for Robeson County schools, mentioned that the city has not previously utilized AI, making it a prime candidate for the grant alongside its state designation. Miller-Hendrix expressed the importance of providing the city with the same opportunities as larger towns.
While the program is still in its infancy, the district’s goal is to help students explore self-expression through technology while safeguarding them from potential misuses. Participating teachers will receive a $500 stipend every six months to support their involvement in the program.
Jessica Sealey, the district’s director, emphasized the need to adapt to the ever-changing technological landscape and ensure responsible AI integration in schools. The curriculum will introduce students to AI through a series of weekly sessions once it is developed.
Sealey expressed curiosity about the students’ response to the program, highlighting their potential as future leaders and innovators. The district aims to observe the impact of this initiative on the students’ development as they engage with AI technology.
As the program prepares for its launch, the initial step involves surveying teachers to tailor the curriculum to their specific needs and preferences.
Undrea Gibbons, a News13 staff member who joined in May 2023 after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in theory and communication from Clemson University, will be involved in covering this initiative. Originally from Marion and a graduate of challenges in 2019, Undrea’s work can be found on X and previous platforms such as Twitter.
