Key Takeaways

• AI emerges as 2024 EdTech priority: U.S. educational technology leaders now rank artificial intelligence above cybersecurity as their main area of focus.
• Widespread AI adoption: Over 65% of surveyed education organizations are already using or piloting AI systems in teaching or administration.
• Skills gap increases for professionals: Rapid adoption of AI is outpacing training, creating a growing competency divide among administrators and educators.
• Cybersecurity still a significant issue: Although it has slipped in priority, cybersecurity remains a top concern, with continued investments reported by most school districts.
• Urgency for training and upskilling: Technology professionals in education identify a lack of practical AI training as a major barrier to effective classroom adoption.
• Upcoming forums to address skills gap: National EdTech events this year will showcase best practices for bridging the divide in AI competency.

Introduction

Artificial intelligence has become the leading focus for U.S. educational technology leaders in 2024, surpassing cybersecurity according to a survey released Tuesday. With more than 65% of schools increasing the use of AI-powered tools, experts say the rapid shift in AI educational technology priorities is widening a skills gap. This makes training and upskilling urgent needs.

AI’s Rise to Top Priority

Educational technology leaders across the United States have shifted their primary focus from cybersecurity to artificial intelligence, as highlighted in SETDA’s 2024 Educational Technology Priorities Report. The survey of 800 district technology directors found that 74% now consider AI implementation their top concern.

This shift marks a notable departure from 2023 when cybersecurity dominated planning decisions. Budget allocations tell the story, too: 38% of districts plan to double their investments in AI technology over the coming year.

District leaders credit this change to the potential of AI for personalized learning and administrative efficiency. Many see AI tools as opportunities to individualize student support and streamline operations.

Implementation Challenges and Training Needs

Despite the enthusiasm for AI, schools face substantial implementation challenges. Only 31% of administrators and 24% of teachers say they feel confident in evaluating or effectively using AI-enabled educational tools.

A significant skills gap has opened up between available technology and educator readiness. Professional development programs just haven’t caught up yet—only 28% of districts offer comprehensive AI training initiatives for staff.

Budget limitations and a shortage of qualified trainers keep slowing the pace. So, plenty of educators are being asked to use tools that they haven’t been properly trained to handle. Not exactly an ideal scenario.

Cybersecurity Remains a Key Concern

While AI now has the spotlight, cybersecurity maintenance is still essential for district technology leaders. The report shows that 65% of districts rank security among their top three priorities (down from 82% the previous year).

Recent data breaches in major school districts serve as a reminder of the ongoing risks. Technology directors report allocating resources to keep current security measures in place while also evaluating how best to bring in new AI systems.

There’s growing interest in tools that combine AI functionality with robust security features. Districts want the benefits of new technology but not at the expense of their defenses.

Security features and training resources are now evaluated together to strike an appropriate balance between innovation and protection.

Professional Development Efforts

Districts are trying out new strategies to close the skills gap. According to the survey, 43% of schools plan to launch hybrid training programs that mix online modules with hands-on workshops.

Technology leaders are emphasizing practical skills now, focusing on real-world classroom scenarios in their training. Many districts are also encouraging collaborative learning by building mentorship networks—56% have set up these communities, pairing tech-savvy educators with colleagues who want to learn more about using AI.

Modern cybersecurity demands are also driving ongoing staff education as part of a holistic digital safety culture. For more on building effective daily routines for online security, see the Cyber Hygiene Checklist.

Conclusion

The swift rise of AI to the forefront of U.S. educational technology priorities signals a major shift in how districts allocate resources and respond to evolving classroom demands. Since educator training and cybersecurity remain critical considerations, maintaining a balance between innovation and practical support will be key. What to watch: Districts are set to launch new hybrid training programs and mentorship networks in the coming school year to address pressing skills gaps.