The People's Money (2024-2025)

Youth

Public Housing Residents

People with Disabilities

Immigrants/ Migrants

Parents

Unhoused People

Low Income People

Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color

Bridging Tomorrow: FREE Generative Learning AI Education for NYC's Young Students addresses the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative Learning is transforming our world. However, this technological shift also risks exacerbating existing disparities in underserved communities. Historically, these communities have faced significant barriers to accessing cutting-edge technology, leading to disparities in financial stability, healthcare, professional opportunities, and education. The digital divide in NYC is a pressing concern, with many low-income families unable to afford devices, internet, or AI-powered educational software. The consequences of this divide are far-reaching. The digital literacy gap is generational and cumulative, with many parents and caretakers lacking the skills to guide their children's AI education. Unsupervised screen time can hinder cognitive development, language acquisition, and social skills. To address these challenges, we need to integrate Generative Learning AI into our education system. However, many schools, especially in underserved communities, lack the training, support, and infrastructure to do so. Consistent with the Mayor's NYC AI Action Plan, we aim to upskill educators and provide them with the necessary tools and resources. Our iVirtue AI platform offers a solution. By introducing AI education at an early age (Kindergarten through 5th grade), we can provide children with a head start in a rapidly evolving arena. It's time to redefine our approach to AI education and ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive.

We propose bridging the AI digital divide through iVirtue partnerships with schools, families, and community organizations in alignment with NYC's AI Action Plan. Building on our successful two-year pilot at Dos Amigos Elementary, we've developed age-appropriate curriculum for K-4th grade students that integrates Generative AI into education. Our program concentrates on: - Parent and teacher training to guide appropriate AI technology use - Generative Art and Storytelling for grades 1-5, reinforcing core skills while fostering creativity - Mobile workshops bringing AI learning to underserved communities via equipped vans with digital devices and secure WiFi - STEAM-based activities preparing students for advanced technologies like robotics The program requires properly configured AI-optimized devices with age-appropriate safeguards and reliable connectivity. Through partnerships with local organizations across NYC's boroughs, we aim to expand access to AI education, supporting Chancellor Banks' vision of empowering young New Yorkers with responsible AI use for community benefit. Here are five Queens-based organizations and schools that could partner with this proposal to bridge the AI digital divide: ●●● 1. Queens Library (Queens Public Library) With branches in underserved areas, Queens Library offers technology access and educational programs to the community. They could host mobile AI workshops, provide space for parent and teacher training, and support outreach to children and families. ●●● 2. Urban Upbound Focused on breaking cycles of poverty in Queens, Urban Upbound offers workforce development, financial literacy, and youth programs. They could collaborate on bringing generative AI education to low-income neighborhoods. ●●● 3. The Child Center of NY Serving children and families in Queens, this organization focuses on education, mental health, and family services. Their after-school programs and community outreach would align with the proposal's goals to integrate generative AI tools into underserved areas. ●●● 4. Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation (CHLDC) – Jamaica Branch Active in Southeast Queens, CHLDC works to empower youth and families through educational programs and community initiatives. They could partner to implement AI-powered STEAM workshops and generative learning programs. ●●● 5. PS 148 - The Jacob Riis School Located in East Elmhurst, PS 148 serves a diverse student population, including many from underserved communities. Partnering with such schools could provide a platform to pilot generative AI curricula and professional development for educators. ●●● These organizations and schools are deeply embedded in Queens communities and have the infrastructure and mission alignment to support this initiative effectively.

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