Trump Signs Executive Order To Bring AI into K-12 Schools

President Donald Trump is signing a new executive order today to bring artificial intelligence into classrooms across the U.S.

According to USA Today, the order requires the Departments of Education and Labor to promote AI learning in K-12 schools by funding teacher training, creating certification programs for high school students, and expanding apprenticeships in AI-related jobs. It also encourages states to offer more AI courses and supports research into how AI can be used in education.

The Washington Post previously reported that a new White House Task Force on AI Education will be created, chaired by Michael Kratsios, director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer will join the task force. They will help develop partnerships with tech companies and schools to provide AI resources and launch a “Presidential AI Challenge” to encourage student innovation.

AI is “driving innovation across industries, enhancing productivity, and reshaping the way we live and work,” the draft order said, as reported by USA Today.

Both political parties agree on the importance of teaching AI skills, especially to stay competitive with countries like China. A bipartisan report from December 2024 stated, “K-12 educators need resources to promote AI literacy,” but also warned that its use must respect labor and anti discrimination laws, as reported by USA Today.

Despite shared interest, there’s division over federal involvement. “AI will likely revolutionize the way students learn, but the federal government doesn’t need to be involved,” a Republican summary of a recent committee hearing stated, as reported by USA Today

The initiative follows Trump’s recent signing of another order to dismantle the Education Department, which still exists but now operates with half its staff. A court hearing is scheduled for April 25 regarding lawsuits over these cuts, as reported by USA Today.

Education Secretary McMahon, who recently confused “AI” with “A.1. sauce” during a speech, will play a key role in overseeing the new programs, as noted by USA Today.

Alongside the U.S. initiative, China is also investing heavily in AI education at the university level. Top institutions such as Peking University, Renmin University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University have announced expanded undergraduate programs focused on artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

China aims to lead globally in AI by 2035, with new undergraduate spots for AI education and nationwide school programs starting from age six. Initiatives like AI self-study rooms and smart tablets are reshaping how students learn, offering affordable, tech-driven alternatives to traditional tutoring.

This academic shift highlights how global powers are racing to build a future workforce rooted in AI.