PEF AI Innovation Fellows

A yearlong fellowship for Hamilton County Schools classroom teachers and instructional coaches exploring responsible AI in real classrooms.

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Educators gathering for a learning session

Real questions. Practical experiments. Shared learning.

PEF AI Innovation Fellows is an applied learning experience for Hamilton County Schools educators interested in exploring thoughtful, responsible uses of artificial intelligence in real classrooms. AI expertise is not required. Curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to experiment responsibly are.

The Opportunity

Teacher and instructional coach teams will design and test strategies, gather evidence and feedback, and share what they learn — including what does not work. Together, Fellows will develop resources and recommendations that can inform future AI implementation across Hamilton County Schools.

The Opportunity

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How it works

Cohort

15 teacher and instructional coach teams will learn alongside one another. Each team includes one current Hamilton County Schools classroom teacher and the school-based instructional coach who supports that teacher’s school. Different grade levels, subjects, schools, and AI experience levels are encouraged.

Four Sessions

Both members attend full-day sessions at Public Education Forward in downtown Chattanooga, 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Eastern: October 28, 2026; December 3, 2026; January 14, 2027; and March 11, 2027.

Shared Impact

Between sessions, Fellows put ideas into practice, gather evidence, exchange resources, and connect through a community of practice. Plan for approximately 3–4 hours per month outside scheduled meetings. The culminating showcase is May 3, 2027, 4:00–7:30 p.m. Eastern (tentative).

What Fellows Will Explore

Make Teaching More Effective

Explore ways AI can support planning, assessment, feedback, differentiation, everyday educator workflows, and meaningful time savings.

Deepen Student Learning

Investigate how AI can support personalization and acceleration while protecting critical thinking, academic integrity, authentic student work, and meaningful learning experiences.

What Fellows Receive

Each Fellow who successfully completes the program receives a $1,000 stipend, up to $200 for approved AI tools, a completion badge, and public recognition.

Stronger Together

PEF AI Innovation Fellows is made possible through support and partnership from Benwood Foundation and Hamilton County Schools, helping educators explore responsible approaches to AI that strengthen teaching and learning.

Your Next Experiment Starts Here

Bring a partner. Bring your curiosity. One application. Two educators. A year of possibilities.

Apply by September 23, 2026 at 11:45 p.m. ET.

Applicants should be ready to participate in all sessions with principal support. Schools provide substitute teacher costs or other coverage for the four full-day sessions.

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