Your AI PD isn’t working: a values-based framework for district leaders

Most districts treat lagging AI adoption as a training problem. The research says otherwise. Studies with K-12 teachers reveal a persistent gap between professional development participation and actual classroom AI use, and the stronger predictor of adoption is the professional values educators already hold. This round table discussion introduces a research-based diagnostic framework of three educator typologies, Restrictors, Cautious Integrators and Advocates, and examines what each group needs to move forward. You will explore the training paradox: why more professional development does not reliably produce more AI use. Learn how to use the framework as a staff diagnostic through surveys, observation or structured conversation, then design differentiated PD: values-level dialogue before skill-building for Restrictors, low-stakes structured practice for Cautious Integrators and autonomy and peer leadership roles for Advocates. Come ready to discuss what your district assumes is blocking AI adoption, and what happens if that assumption is wrong.