Education leaders explore how Artificial Intelligence can deepen engagement and transform learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept for Colorado schools. It is rapidly becoming a tool for transformation, helping educators redefine learning. At a recent panel co-hosted by the Colorado Education Initiative and Colorado Succeeds, education leaders came together to explore how AI can enhance teaching and learning while building systems that are more inclusive, human-centered, and future-ready.
Held at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library in Denver, the event featured a dynamic panel, including:
- Antonio Vigil, Aurora Public Schools
- Diane Lauer, St. Vrain Valley Schools
- David Jarboe, Harrison School District 2
- Moderated by Patricia Quinones, Colorado Education Initiative
The discussion was grounded in lived experience and instructional practice, while highlighting systemic shifts needed to ensure AI drives positive change across all schools and Colorado communities.
Key Themes from the Event
AI Should Amplify Human Potential
Panelists emphasized that AI isn’t about replacing educators or automating instruction. Instead, it should serve as a thought partner that helps students and teachers focus on what makes us uniquely human: critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and ethical reasoning.
“We want the future of education to be more humanizing, more collaborative, and more inclusive,” shared Antonio Vigil. “That has to show up in our pedagogy—or it won’t show up in how students and AI interact.”
AI Can Drive Mastery-Based, Student-Centered Learning
Districts piloting AI tools are seeing promising early outcomes: increased academic engagement, deeper instruction, and improved learner agency. AI is being used to personalize feedback, support small-group instruction, and enable project-based learning.
Removing Barriers to Opportunity
From supporting multilingual learners to improving IEPs, AI can help meet the needs of diverse learners—if implemented intentionally. Panelist David Jarboe emphasized the importance of thoughtfully regulating AI across rural and urban districts to ensure AI is seen as a tool instead of a hindrance to educators. AI tools have the potential to ease administrative burdens, increase instructional time, and personalize pathways for students with varied backgrounds and abilities.
Engaging Educators & Communities in Shaping the Future
Educators must be involved in defining what constitutes meaningful learning. AI’s impact should be guided by instructional expertise, real-world insight, and a commitment to human dignity. As shared by panelists, successful AI integration requires ongoing reflection, ethical boundaries, and shared ownership between schools, families, and communities.
Looking Ahead
Diane Lauer offered a compelling call to action: “Our aspiration is to be as responsive as industry. If we can harness new innovations and put them in the hands of our teachers and students, they will have a strong competitive advantage that allows them to compete with anyone, anywhere.”
As AI continues to reshape the future of learning, Colorado Succeeds remains committed to advancing policies and practices that put learners at the center. Together with educators, communities, and industry partners, we can build a system that reflects the diverse talents and needs of all Colorado students.
To help guide this work, the Colorado Education Initiative has published the Colorado Roadmap for AI in K-12 Education—a resource that outlines guiding principles, ethical considerations, and practical strategies for implementation. Explore the roadmap to learn how Colorado is leading the way in using AI to support student success.