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REGISTER NOW TO EMPOWER KIDS WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL AI CHALLENGE

Parents and teachers—register in September, form a team and help kids tackle real-world issues!

By Shelby Phelan, Macaroni KID Roanoke September 1, 2025

Are your kids curious about technology? Do they enjoy solving problems, dreaming up inventions, or thinking about ways to improve their community? The Presidential AI Challenge is a national initiative that gives K–12 students, educators, and community teams a chance to explore these interests through AI-powered projects.

Supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the challenge invites students to work together with teachers, mentors, or parents to tackle real-world problems. Participants can explore AI technologies, develop solutions, and share their ideas with a wider audience.

What the Challenge Involves

  • Hands-On Experience: Students learn about AI and how it can be applied to solve practical problems.
  • Teamwork and Mentorship: Teams are guided by adults such as educators, parents, or community leaders, and can receive advice from AI professionals.
  • Exploring Local Issues: Projects focus on challenges in the community, encouraging students to think about meaningful ways to make an impact.
  • National Recognition: Selected projects may be showcased at a national level, highlighting innovative approaches from students across the country.

Who Can Participate

  • Students in Grades K–12: Teams must include a supervising adult (teacher, parent, or mentor).
  • Educator Teams: Teachers can also participate as teams.

Important Information

The challenge provides a way for students to explore AI, collaborate with peers, and practice problem-solving in a structured setting. Families, schools, and community groups can review the materials and decide if forming a team is a good fit for their students.

This is a chance to learn more about AI, experiment with creative solutions, and see how technology can be applied in everyday life.