Federal funding developments for boosting AI education and molding a future STEM workforce, led by the National Science Foundation

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has unveiled a series of new initiatives to support the Trump administration's executive order, "Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth." These announcements include two Dear Colleague Letters (DCL) and one program solicitation, all aimed at expanding resources for K-12 AI education.

One of the DCLs, titled "Expanding AI Career and Skilled Technical Workforce Opportunities in Support of High School Students," seeks to increase early access to AI learning opportunities for high school students. This could involve AI courses, certification or dual enrollment programs that focus on AI and workforce development.

The NSF STEM K-12 program, another key component of these announcements, is focused on multidisciplinary research. It seeks projects that unlock new avenues of scientific inquiry and discovery in STEM education, as well as projects that produce new tools and frameworks for STEM education. The program will also support innovative research that explores how AI and other emerging technologies can be leveraged to study and enhance STEM teaching and learning.

The research and development advances supported by the NSF STEM K-12 program are expected to be translated to STEM classroom practices. Proposals should be for specific K-12 educational efforts that address age-appropriate AI education, literacy, and/or the use of technologies in AI education.

In addition, the "Expanding K-12 Resources for AI Education DCL" invites existing awardees with K-12 AI or computer science education experience to submit supplemental funding proposals. This DCL aims to strengthen the U.S. AI workforce and advance education and innovation pipelines.

NSF Assistant Director for STEM Education James L. Moore III stated that integrating AI into education systems helps prepare learners for an AI-driven society. The NSF also plans to enhance teacher training in AI and harness AI tools and services to improve STEM teaching and learning.

It's important to note that, as of now, there are no publicly available search results identifying which specific organizations have submitted proposals in the last days following the two Dear Colleague letters and the NSF program announcement.

In conclusion, the NSF's new initiatives represent a significant step forward in the integration of AI into K-12 education in the USA. By supporting research, development, and education in this area, the NSF is helping to prepare the next generation of AI professionals and ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of AI innovation.

Federal funding developments for boosting AI education and molding a future STEM workforce, led by the National Science Foundation