U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Austin, Texas as part of her Returning Education to the States Tour. During her visit, Secretary McMahon toured Alpha School, a private K-8 institution that uses artificial intelligence to personalize learning for students. She participated in a roundtable with school leaders focused on AI and educational innovation.
Later in the day, Secretary McMahon met with University of Austin President Carlos Carvalho to discuss how the university encourages innovation among its students and faculty.
“Harnessing AI thoughtfully will be critical to expanding opportunity and preparing students for tomorrow’s workforce,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “During my visit to Austin, I saw how AI can open doors, but also how it is curiosity, critical thinking, and open debate that drive learning. As we return education to the states, it’s vitally important that innovation is guided by the fundamentals – so that the classroom remains a true marketplace of ideas.”
Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath joined Secretary McMahon during her visit. He stated: “I am grateful to have joined Secretary McMahon at today’s visit and appreciated the thoughtful discussion on the responsible use of innovation in schools. At the Texas Education Agency, we are always searching for transformational best practices that can be shared with Texas public schools to help them best meet the needs of students and help our dedicated educators focus on what they do best - teaching.”
Photos from the visit are available online.
