The Montana Digital Academy established the Frontier Learning Lab at the University of Montana, an experimental space for incorporating emerging technologies including AI into schools. The lab conducts AI training events in schools across the state and operates an AI help desk recognized by Google as a resource for educators.
The Frontier Learning Lab has graduated its first cohort of 20 teachers trained in AI, who now serve as resources on AI implementation for their districts. The program demonstrates strong demand, with additional teachers seeking participation in the training cohort.
This model addresses teacher preparation needs by creating a dedicated space for educator professional development in AI, recognizing that teacher capacity is essential for effective classroom implementation.
Scoring note: Dimension 4 (teacher training mandated and funded) scores 1 as the lab provides professional development for teachers in AI, though participation is not yet mandated. Dimension 13 (free/public resources) scores 1 for the state-supported lab offering free AI training to educators.