Oh Great, Another AI Challenge the GOP Can Screw Up

Back to school, kiddos! But don't expect things to be any easier for our overworked, underpaid teachers. Shocking, right?

You know things are bad when you see billboards begging teachers to ditch Austin for Dallas. That's right, 70% of Texas teachers are like, "Peace out, y'all." Can you blame them? They're burnt out and underpaid, and more than 40% of new Central Texas teachers aren't even fully qualified, according to the fabulous Keri Heath from the American-Statesman.

Meanwhile, Austin voters are being asked to approve a tax hike to cover part of the Austin Independent School District's $78 million deficit. And guess what? Federal COVID relief funding is drying up in September. Thanks, Texas Tribune.

So, what's a school district to do? Cut essential staff? Compromise valuable programs? Fix crumbling buildings or pay teachers a liveable wage? Tough call, huh?

But wait, plot twist! What if AI could help? Yeah, the same AI that summarizes info and handles admin tasks. Turns out, AI can do wonders in the classroom too.

Check out Alpha schools, where kids start their day with two hours of AI-assisted learning. They learn twice as fast and rediscover their love for learning. Plus, AI helps teachers by automating tasks, so they can focus on actual teaching. Forbes has the deets.

Think this is a pipe dream? Texas legislators are already eyeing AI for classrooms. Last year, five state reps recommended a "holistic approach" to AI policy and education. ASU News even says AI can create personalized learning paths for students.

Come January, who knows what'll happen with school funding. But one thing's for sure: AI should be at the top of the agenda. We can't afford to miss out on this opportunity, folks. Our kids and teachers deserve better.

So let's get our woke butts in gear and make AI a cornerstone of education reform. Deal?

MacKenzie Price is the co-founder of Alpha schools and 2Hour Learning. And probably a secret AI enthusiast.