In a forward-thinking move, New Jersey has announced the allocation of $1.5 million in grants to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its public school systems.
Governor Phil Murphy’s fiscal year 2025 budget funds 12 school districts, including traditional districts and specialized vocational schools, to experiment with AI-based learning and career preparation programs.
These grants are set to run through January 31, 2026.
The funding’s focus is twofold: enhancing classroom learning through AI-powered tools and developing new AI-related career pathways for students.
The first grant, the Artificial Intelligence Innovation in Education Grant, will directly support 10 school districts utilizing AI for various educational purposes.
These districts will explore the use of AI to provide personalized tutoring, facilitate data analysis to improve teaching strategies, and support teacher training initiatives.
Among the 10 school districts benefiting from the innovation grant, each will receive $75,000, with the exception of the Lawrence Township Public School District in Mercer County, which was awarded $72,805.
The funding in these districts will go toward testing generative AI in the classroom, helping create more personalized learning experiences for students. It will also support new curricula that dive into the ethics of AI and its real-world impact.
Additionally, some districts will establish AI-driven maker spaces, which are interactive environments where students can interact with AI technology hands-on.
The second grant, known as the Expanding Career Pathways in Artificial Intelligence Grant, was awarded to two vocational school districts in Mercer and Middlesex counties.
Mercer County Vocational School District received $338,872, while Middlesex County Vocational School District was granted $375,000.
These funds will help expand vocational training, giving students hands-on experience with AI and robotics. They’ll learn how computer systems work, explore AI theory, and see its real-world applications in fields like cybernetics and natural language processing.
Governor Murphy’s comments shine a light on the importance of these grants in securing New Jersey’s future as a national leader in technological innovation.
Murphy said the program will ensure New Jersey remains a leader in cutting-edge technology and AI advancements for years to come.
Beth Simone Noveck, New Jersey’s Chief Artificial Intelligence Strategist, further noted that by integrating AI literacy into classrooms across the state, the initiative democratizes access to transformative technologies and ensures every student has the opportunity to shape a future influenced by AI.
