Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world around us—fast. From the apps on our phones to the jobs in our economy, AI is no longer something students will encounter someday. It’s here now, shaping the skills they’ll need to thrive.

That’s why every school needs to be CS + AI Ready.

The World Our Students Are Entering

Every industry—from healthcare and finance to manufacturing, media, and the arts—is being reshaped by AI. The students in today’s classrooms will graduate into a workforce where:

  • AI fluency is expected, not optional.

  • Computational thinking is a foundation skill like reading and math.

  • Critical thinking about ethics and bias in AI systems is essential to citizenship.

Schools can’t afford to wait. Preparing students with computer science (CS) and artificial intelligence (AI) literacy is part of preparing them for life.

Why CS + AI Together

Computer science lays the groundwork: coding, problem-solving, logic, and digital citizenship. AI builds on top of that foundation: understanding how algorithms learn, applying data responsibly, and building tools that augment human creativity.

Together, CS + AI education helps students:

  • See how the technologies they use every day actually work

  • Understand the impact of AI on society and democracy

  • Explore career opportunities in fast-growing fields

  • Gain confidence as creators—not just consumers—of technology

The Risk of Doing Nothing

If schools don’t act now, we risk widening gaps:

  • Equity gaps: Only students in well-resourced districts get access to AI education

  • Opportunity gaps: Students graduate unprepared for high-demand careers

  • Civic gaps: Future citizens lack the literacy to engage in debates about AI’s impact

Every student deserves the chance to be prepared. CS + AI readiness isn’t just an advantage—it’s a matter of fairness.

How Schools Can Start

Getting CS + AI Ready doesn’t mean overhauling everything overnight. It means taking the first steps:

  • Commit to a vision of CS + AI for all students

  • Audit your current programs—where are the gaps in CS and AI education?

  • Invest in professional development so teachers feel supported

  • Adopt age-appropriate pathways from elementary through high school

  • Join the CS + AI Ready alliance to learn from others and share your progress

Join the Movement

This is a moment of possibility. Schools have the chance to lead, to inspire, and to prepare the next generation for a world being reshaped by AI.

At CS + AI Ready, we believe every student—no matter their background or zip code—should graduate with the skills and confidence to thrive in the age of AI.

👉 Sign the pledge at csaiready.org and join schools, districts, and educators nationwide in making sure we’re ready for the future.