Supporting Practical AI for Real K–12 Classrooms
SPARK
About SPARK
SPARK is an 18-month initiative designed to help Florida school districts use artificial intelligence in thoughtful, responsible, and practical ways. The initiative is led by Impact Florida in partnership with the University of Florida’s CSEveryone Center for Computer Science Education, with alignment to the Florida K-12 AI Education Task Force and support from partners including Microsoft, Google, and other key stakeholders across the state.
Cadre at a Glance
Districts receive ongoing support throughout the 18 months, including:
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Monthly coaching sessions
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Hands-on implementation guidance as they test and refine their approach to AI in real classrooms
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Three in-person convenings, with travel covered, where district teams come together for deeper learning, collaboration, and planning.
Through this combination of internal alignment, cross-district collaboration, and sustained support, SPARK helps districts move forward with clarity, confidence, and a strong foundation for long-term success with AI.
Why It Matters
Artificial intelligence is already shaping classrooms, teaching, and learning. Without a clear approach, districts can quickly find themselves reacting instead of leading. SPARK helps districts take a more intentional path by building systems that support responsible use, strong instruction, and long-term decision-making.
In Partnership
SPARK is led by Impact Florida in partnership with the University of Florida’s CSEveryone Center, in collaboration with Microsoft and Google.
Impact Florida
Impact Florida exists in the vital middle space between the classroom and the statehouse. We help educators grow their practice, connect leaders to share what works, and shape systems so that great teaching can reach every Florida student, in every classroom, every day. By bridging these spaces, we ensure that data become action, and that every Florida student benefits from excellent instruction. Since 2019, we’ve worked across 70% of Florida school districts which serve 93% of the state’s student population.
CS Everyone Center
The CS Everyone Center for Computer Science Education was created to boost teachers’ capabilities around computer science (CS) and artificial intelligence (AI) education, responding to student demand and preparing the workforce of tomorrow. Teachers across Florida and the nation, regardless of their subject area, will have access to professional development and resources, enabling them to seamlessly integrate CS and AI into their teaching. Our approaches include the use of instructional best practices to promote participation of all students and the establishment of a network of CS and AI school leaders and professionals in Florida and beyond.
How It Works
SPARK is built around the idea that policy and practice should not be developed separately. As districts explore AI in classrooms, they are also developing the policies and systems that guide its use. This includes everything from data privacy and ethics to professional learning and classroom implementation. By designing these areas together, districts are able to create approaches that are both practical and sustainable.
The program moves through three phases over 18 months.
Phase 1
Phase 2
Phase 3
Learn more
If you are interested in learning more about SPARK or receiving updates and insights in your inbox, subscribe to the Impact Florida email list.
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AI in Florida Schools
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