UIS and Ed3 Global Collaborate to Elevate AI Literacy for Illinois Educators

In a significant move towards integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into education, the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) has partnered with the non-profit organization Ed3 Global. This partnership aims to equip K-12 teachers in Illinois with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively use AI tools in their classrooms. Leveraging over 25 years of experience in online education through its Center for Academic and Professional Education (CAPE) and ION eLearning program, UIS is poised to transform the educational landscape in the state by making AI resources accessible to teachers.

In July 2026, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) introduced comprehensive AI guidelines intended for PreK-12 institutions. However, the real challenge lies in helping educators translate these guidelines into actionable classroom strategies. With this goal in mind, UIS is launching a suite of self-paced, fully online courses starting September 8, 2026. This initiative promises to deliver not only foundational AI literacy but also valuable professional development experiences tailored to the unique needs of teachers.

By collaborating with Ed3, which has a successful history of supporting educator training across the United States, UIS aims to provide a pedagogy-first approach to AI professional learning. Rather than presenting AI as an additional tool layered onto existing teaching methods, the course curriculum will focus on research-backed pedagogical practices designed to enrich teaching and student learning outcomes. Educators will cultivate critical skills and judgment, ensuring they can effectively harness AI to its fullest potential.

Russ Stoup, Acting Director of Continuing and Professional Education at UIS, expressed pride in the partnership, highlighting the commitment to expanding access to high-quality pedagogical training for Illinois teachers. “PreK-12 AI guidance is only as valuable as its impact on classroom instruction,” he remarked. “Our initiative is about more than mere compliance; we are leading the charge to empower educators to implement AI-assisted teaching methodologies right now.”

Vriti Saraf, Founder and CEO of Ed3, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for proactive measures in bridging the policy-to-practice gap in education. “This partnership is a game-changer for Illinois educators,” she stated. “We’re proud to help UIS offer a structured path for educators to evolve from AI literacy into true AI agency, with credible certifications that enhance their professional profiles.”

The courses developed collaboratively will not only provide Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and Continuing Education Units (CEUs) but will also feature stackable micro-credentials. This allows educators to incrementally build their qualifications and expertise in navigating the evolving landscape shaped by AI technologies. Given Ed3’s track record of enrolling over 20,000 educators across 48 states and directing over 900,000 hours of professional development to date, the partnership is expected to have a significant impact on Illinois educators.

For those interested in participating, UIS has made information readily available through their official website. Alternatively, educators can reach out via email at [email protected] for further inquiries about the forthcoming courses.

The University of Illinois Springfield has been at the forefront of educational innovation, and with its new partnership with Ed3 Global, it reaffirms its commitment to fostering an educational environment that embraces technological advancements. As Illinois embarks on this journey to integrate AI into its classrooms, the collaboration between UIS and Ed3 serves as a model for other states looking to enhance educator training for a 21st-century learning experience.