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Microsoft Launches Elevate for Educators to Advance AI in Education

In the quest to reshape the educational landscape, Microsoft has launched its latest initiative, Elevate for Educators. This comprehensive program is designed to connect teachers with vital community resources, educational credentials, and innovative AI capabilities—all at no additional cost. The objective is crystal clear: to prepare educators and students globally for an increasingly AI-driven future.

The Mission Behind Elevate for Educators

On January 15, 2026, Microsoft Corporation announced Elevate for Educators, aligning perfectly with its long-standing mission to strengthen education through AI. The launch was strategically timed to precede the renowned Bett UK 2026 event, where discussions surrounding educational technology take center stage. Microsoft aims to ensure that AI tools not only enhance educational practices but also foster trust among educators, students, and families.

According to Justin Spelhaug, President of Microsoft Elevate, “As AI becomes an integrated part of daily learning, our responsibility is to ensure that it supports educators while garnering student and family trust.” Microsoft envisions creating responsible AI solutions that humanize the learning experience while equipping educators with the necessary skills and resources.

Microsoft Elevate for Educators: Key Features

Elevate for Educators represents a pivotal commitment from Microsoft to empower schools and educators alike. Highlights of this program include:

1. Global Networks for Collaboration

Microsoft is rolling out new global communities tailored for educators and schools. These networks will assist educators in navigating the complexities of integrating AI into educational settings. They offer opportunities for professional growth and collaborative learning—enabling easier sharing of best practices in AI-driven teaching.

2. Free Professional Development Opportunities

Access to development courses and credentials is crucial for educators to stay current. The Elevate program extends free, self-paced courses, live sessions, and AI-based simulations available in over 13 languages through the AI Skills Navigator. This initiative is designed to help educators upgrade their skills and offer better educational experiences.

3. Recognized Credentials

To bolster trust and expertise within educational environments, a new credential has been introduced that aligns with popular educational standards. This initiative, designed in collaboration with ISTE + ASCD, aides educators in confidently integrating AI into their teaching methodologies, all while working towards industry-recognized certifications like the Microsoft Certified Educational Technologist and Coach.

Promotions for Students

Adding further value, Microsoft is also addressing the students directly with a time-limited promotion that provides eligible college students free subscriptions for Microsoft 365 Premium and LinkedIn Premium Career for a year. This initiative aims to enhance students’ productivity and prepare them for future job markets facilitated by AI technologies.

Personalizing Learning Experience with AI

Microsoft continues its commitment to personalized AI in education with recent innovations that make learning more interactive and accessible for students. The Learning Zone app and the Study and Learn Agent are among the latest tools developed to enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and independent learning. These tools are crafted to allow educators more time to focus on meaningful teaching practices while providing students with customized learning experiences.

Conclusion

As Microsoft plants its flag in the evolving realm of education through initiatives like Elevate for Educators, it not only addresses the immediate needs of educators and students but also sets a compelling vision for the future of learning. By integrating AI responsibly within educational frameworks, Microsoft is positioned to transform the way knowledge is disseminated and acquired, ensuring that both educators and students navigate this transformation seamlessly.

For more information on Microsoft's commitment to this educational revolution, visit aka.ms/AIforTeachingandLearning and join Microsoft at Bett UK from January 21-23, 2026, for a closer look at these pioneering efforts.