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Project Tomorrow's Annual K-12 Tech Report

On October 23, 2025, Project Tomorrow released its 22nd annual Speak Up Report, showcasing significant insights regarding technology and generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) in classrooms across the United States. This report, drawn from a vast survey of over 65,000 K-12 students, educators, administrators, and parents, aims to provide clarity on the role of technology, particularly AI, in the learning process.

The Speak Up Research Project engages with local communities to collect comprehensive municipal data which helps inform decision-making at the district level. In current times, schools find themselves trying to hastily adapt to the rapidly evolving world of AI. However, the latest data suggests that students are not merely passive recipients of this change; they are actively exploring AI in their own time and pushing for more meaningful conversations about how it can be integrated into their formal education.

Key Findings from the Report

Student Engagement with AI

The report reveals a notable trend: nearly 45% of high school students regularly utilize AI tools outside the classroom to enhance their learning experiences. In stark contrast, only 18% of teachers have inquired about this personal AI usage, with a shocking 53% admitting they have not discussed AI at all with their students. This disconnect highlights a significant gap between student interest and teacher engagement concerning AI technology.

Concerns Over Cheating and Ethics

An alarming 63% of students in grades 6 to 12 expressed worries about being wrongfully accused of cheating due to their use of AI tools. This concern is further complicated by differing perceptions among students and teachers about what constitutes cheating, indicating a pressing need for open dialogues and collaborative standards that can bridge these gaps.

Teacher Confidence and Professional Development

Only 13% of educators reported feeling very confident in their ability to utilize AI tools effectively in their teaching. Furthermore, just 15% stated that their districts provide sufficient professional development opportunities to help them become more adept with AI applications. This lack of training presents an essential opportunity for school systems to invest in professional development, enabling teachers to integrate AI meaningfully into their teaching methodologies and foster a culture of innovative learning.

Parents' Perspectives

Interestingly, while 74% of parents believe that familiarity with AI tools is crucial for their children's future educational and career advancement, only 22% professed a deep understanding of Gen AI technologies. This disparity underscores a broader community gap that schools need to address, ensuring that not just educators but also parents are well-informed about the implications and applications of AI in education.

Moving Forward

Dr. Julie Evans, CEO of Project Tomorrow, emphasized the urgent need for consensus among educators, students, and parents about AI's role in education. "AI arrived in classrooms so swiftly that schools are now in a race to catch up. It is paramount that all stakeholders collaborate to create clear, ethical standards for the use of AI in education."

The report also outlines students' aspirations for AI in learning, revealing a strong desire for AI tools to enhance engagement and better prepare them for future academic and career opportunities. In a recent Congressional Briefing, Dr. Evans and a panel of four high school students discussed these findings and proposed actionable strategies for aligning AI policies with student needs and expectations.

Conclusion

As educational systems continue to navigate the challenges presented by new technologies, the insights from Project Tomorrow's Speak Up Report provide a critical foundation for schools seeking to involve students in meaningful ways. Ensuring effective dialogues concerning AI can pave the way for a more equitable and prepared future for all students.

To access the complete findings of the Speak Up survey, please visit Project Tomorrow's official website.