Edward M. Kennedy Institute
Boston, Massachusetts
Overview
Day of AI and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate have partnered to create a program that empowers students to take the lead in shaping their own schoolwide AI policy. Through the program, students explore how AI impacts their communities, learn about the legislative process, gather stakeholder input, and take on the role of U.S. Senators to draft, debate, and vote on an AI policy for schools. The program builds both AI literacy and civic leadership, culminating in a policy that students can present to school leaders or share nationally.
Designed for classroom or after-school use, the freely available curriculum and professional learning workshops equip educators to guide students through the lessons at their own pace. Educators are encouraged to facilitate the lessons with their students at this time, please view the Program Resources section.
Ultimately, as part of the America's Youth AI Festival, two students from every state will be selected to come to Boston, Massachusetts, in July 2026 to debate a national Policy on AI Use in K-12 Schools on the Senate floor at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute. More information on next steps for that process will come later this spring.
Program Resources
Step-by-step guidance, including implementation tips, links to suggested lessons, and activity ideas to build student understanding.
Printable handouts, brainstorming sheets, and checklists to help students plan, reflect, and document their work.
Ready-to-use presentation slides to introduce the project, guide student discussions, and support classroom implementation.
Key Dates
Program Details and Materials Released
November 10, 2025
Senators & Educators Selected
April 21, 2026
Initial Bills Submitted
June 1, 2026
Student Senate Sessions at EMK Institute
July 18-19, 2026
What Leaders Are Saying
...companies have the ability to lead the world in innovation, but it is our responsibility to ensure it doesn't come at the expense of our children's health.
Steve Padilla
California State Senator, District 18
We cannot prepare our youth for a future where AI is ubiquitous by preventing their use of these tools altogether.
Gavin Newsom
Governor of California
AI can have serious consequences for our democracy and we must work with urgency to put guardrails in place.
Amy Klobuchar
Senator from Minnesota
Details about how students and schools can participate in this exciting program will be published on November 10, 2025. Stay tuned for updates on application processes and participation requirements.