Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping education, work, and daily life. But AI doesn’t exist in isolation—it builds on the skills and concepts of computer science (CS). For superintendents, the question isn’t just how AI will impact their districts, but how to ensure students are prepared with the CS + AI foundations to succeed.
Here are five critical questions every superintendent should be asking right now.
1. How can AI enhance teaching and learning—without replacing teachers?
AI tools can personalize student support, automate administrative tasks, and give teachers more time to focus on instruction. But they should never replace the relationships and expertise at the heart of education. Where can AI free up time and add value while keeping teachers at the center?
2. Do our students have the computer science foundations they need to understand AI?
AI literacy doesn’t start with chatbots or image generators—it starts with coding, algorithms, and problem-solving. Students who learn CS are better equipped to understand how AI systems work, how they can fail, and how to use them responsibly. Are our CS pathways strong enough to support deeper AI learning?
3. Are our students prepared to use AI responsibly and ethically?
Beyond technical skills, students need to think critically about bias, equity, and social impact. They should learn not just how to use AI tools, but also how to question them: Whose data is this? Who benefits? Who could be harmed? Superintendents can lead the way by embedding ethics discussions into CS + AI courses.
4. What professional development do teachers need?
Teachers are being asked to adapt quickly to new technology. They need support, training, and communities of practice to feel confident both using AI tools and teaching students about them. How is our district investing in teacher readiness for CS and AI?
5. How do we ensure equity in CS + AI access?
The risk of a new digital divide is real. If only certain schools or communities have access to CS and AI opportunities, gaps will widen. Every student should have the chance to learn to code, explore AI, and connect these skills to their future careers. Are we building programs that reach all students, not just some?
Leading the Way
Superintendents don’t need to have all the answers—but they do need to ask the right questions. By focusing on both computer science and AI, districts can build pathways that prepare students not just to use technology, but to understand, shape, and lead with it.
At CS + AI Ready, we’re building resources and a community to help districts navigate this moment.
👉 Sign the pledge at csaiready.org and join other leaders in making your schools CS + AI Ready.