As an eighth-grader, Ibrahim Memon from Tustin’s Legacy Magnet Academy began working on an AI-powered app designed to allow rideshare drivers to keep 100 percent of their fares.
Today, Ibrahim is a high school junior. And his app? It’s operational in Seattle.
Ibrahim’s story highlights the extraordinary potential of Orange County’s young innovators, especially when supported with cutting-edge educational tools like artificial intelligence. And his success is a prime example of the outcomes we hope to encourage and nurture at the Orange County Department of Education through our own AI initiative.
We already know that AI in schools is about more than just the adoption of a new technology. It signals a transformative shift in how we educate our students, and there’s no choice but to embrace it.
Indeed, to quote the Borg from Star Trek, “Resistance is futile” — but I don’t mean that in a menacing way. The fact is this wave of technology is already here, and now it’s up to us to harness it responsibly and strategically to enhance educational outcomes for all learners.
So far, the feedback we’ve seen from introducing AI in classroom settings has been highly encouraging. These emerging technologies not only make learning more interactive but also tailor educational experiences to individual needs, making education more effective and engaging. Survey data shows a 90 percent satisfaction rate among students participating in AI-driven activities.
That said, the foundation of our strategy must be to support educators. That’s why OCDE will be advancing AI fluency programs and comprehensive professional development opportunities to help make teachers’ work more efficient and to maximize the impact of their instruction. Additionally, we will be promoting collaborative environments where students and teachers can explore the potential of AI together, fostering inclusive and innovative educational spaces.
Our vision and goals
At the Orange County Board of Education meeting on Sept. 4, our staff outlined a new strategic vision for the integration of artificial intelligence and the empowerment of students and staff. This wasn’t about mandating a new direction, but rather supporting our districts and scaling up the innovative work many are already doing.
As we stated at that meeting, we envision a future where AI revolutionizes education, unlocking unprecedented opportunities, and we are committed to harnessing its transformative power responsibly to enhance learning, inspire innovation and prepare every student for success in college, careers and beyond. By embedding ethical principles into our AI initiatives, we strive to create an educational environment where technology uplifts humanity, fosters creativity and builds a brighter future for all.
That’s the overarching vision, but clear, measurable goals will be essential to ensure that OCDE’s AI initiative achieves its intended objectives and enhances educational outcomes.
By 2025, for example, our target is for 90 percent of local districts to adopt ethical AI guidelines that promote responsible use across all educational settings. We also commit to holding regular meetings throughout the year to review progress and adjust strategies to make sure our efforts remain aligned with our broader educational objectives. Additionally, we want to work closely with district leaders to guarantee that all students have access to advanced technologies.
The road ahead
Wes Kriesel and Kunal Dalal, who joined OCDE in late 2023 as administrators of AI and innovation, are already providing direct support to our 28 school districts, and they’re working in collaboration with Dr. Sabba Quidwai of Designing Schools. Last year Dr. Quidwai led numerous sessions under the OC AI Forward banner, which brought together local superintendents and other educational leaders to drive this important conversation.
We are also partnering with OC Workforce Solutions and the Orange County Business Council to align our efforts with workforce demands so that students are on track for fulfilling, in-demand careers. Notably, 71 percent of industry leaders already say they prefer candidates with strong AI skills. Finally, we are actively seeking support from local colleges and universities.
As county superintendent, one of my top priorities is to ensure the responsible integration of AI technologies within our educational framework, because we know that those who are adept at harnessing its potential will find themselves at a distinct advantage.
But this initiative isn’t merely about adapting to the needs of the future — it’s about actively shaping it. Through our collective efforts with our districts and other educational partners, we can and will continue to position Orange County as a leader in educational innovation, one that is actively preparing our students for success in an increasingly AI-driven world.