Design Lab: Building an AI-Infused Instructional Strategy

What does it look like to bring artificial intelligence into instructional planning without losing the human heart of teaching? In this high-impact session, Shawn Petty, Chief Innovation Officer at STEMfinity, shares a practical framework for integrating AI into instructional systems, professional development, and student learning experiences—drawing from his work with school districts, state agencies, and national afterschool networks. Participants will explore real-world examples of how AI can enhance lesson planning, personalize instruction, support formative assessment, and streamline teacher workflows. The session also dives into how AI tools can be thoughtfully introduced to students—empowering them as creators, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers in a tech-rich future. Attendees will examine scalable strategies for building cross-role buy-in, aligning AI tools with instructional goals, and avoiding common implementation pitfalls. Whether you’re launching a PD initiative or integrating AI into classroom projects, this session provides strategic guidance and usable takeaways. Designed for district leaders, instructional coaches, and edtech specialists, attendees will leave with a draft roadmap, sample templates, and clear ideas for how to responsibly and effectively bring AI into both teaching and learning. You’ll walk away with the inspiration—and the tools—to lead AI-infused transformation in your own context.