To Technology Services
To Instructional Technology

Prompt Pioneers | LTG ✨

Guiding Teachers to Leverage Generative Tools Through Coaching

Buffalo Public Schools launched an initiative to explore how artificial intelligence can support teaching and learning in meaningful, practical ways. As part of the LTG grant, secondary teachers and instructional coaches are taking part in Prompt Pioneers: AI Integration & Instructional Coaching for 7–12 Classrooms which launched in September 2025.

As artificial intelligence tools become more advanced and widely available, it’s essential for students, educators, and families to understand the appropriate and inappropriate uses of these technologies in academic settings. BPS had developed guidelines to outline what AI is, highlight academic integrity concerns, and address key safety, privacy, and learning challenges associated with its use.

2024 LTG Grant Application
Teacher/Coach Artifacts
AI in BPS

Training & Coaching

Buffalo Public Schools is launching a new initiative to explore how artificial intelligence can support teaching and learning in meaningful, practical ways. As part of the LTG grant, secondary teachers and instructional coaches will take part in Prompt Pioneers: AI Integration & Instructional Coaching for 7–12 Classrooms beginning Wednesday, September 25, 2025.

AI Integration & Instructional Coaching Kickoff

This professional learning experience will feature:

  • A live virtual visit with Magic School

  • A thought-provoking session with Dr. Jeremiah Okal-Frink

  • Ongoing learning opportunities focused on AI integration in the classroom

Instructional Technology Coaches will provide ongoing support as educators implement AI tools to enhance teaching and learning.

Virtual Training Sessions

Live virtual sessions featuring AI-focused professional learning, expert insights, and ongoing support for integrating AI tools into teaching and learning.

AI is simultaneously revolutionary and something that's been quietly helping us out for years a slide show prevention during a virtual meeting

virtual meeting. Dr. Jeremiah Okal-Frink spearking consultant impact edvisors
Kristen Mietus project leader BPS IT Supervisor speaking in virtual meeting
Group people in virual meeting

Our Prompt Pioneers

Group photo of large group of educators

IT Supervisors

Kristen Harrington | Brianna Pride | Maria Muhlbauer

Teachers

Timeline

Prompt Pioneer Day Sessions

Our Teacher Leaders participating in School Development with our Tech Coaches.

3 teaches at desk
group training in a library
3 teachers at a desk
2 teachers and a coach in deep discussion
Jerimiah fink teaching a class of teachers
Training session in auditorium
Collaborative Work Session
Jerimiah fink teaching a class of teachers

Leadership Conference

AI: From Policy to Practice | NYSCATE, NYC Public Schools, Buffalo Public Schools.

Kristen Mietus Sitting on a Panel | AI: From Policy to Practice
Kristen Mietus Sitting on a Panel | AI: From Policy to Practice
CTO Julianna Sciolino in front of a Board that says AI: From Policy to Practice with two other people
CTO Julianna Sciolino Sitting on a Panel

Empowering Future Minds | AI in Action Prompt Pioneers Showcase

A culminating celebration and share‑out of classroom innovation through the NYS Learning Technology Grant.

Save the Date Flyer
Large room with people sitting at tables
Q & A Panel
Teacher presenting their research findings to another professional
Students waving
Students waving
Students Talking to Magic School Rep
Two Teachers talking about laptops

Magic School Logo

Magic School

Magic School is a popular AI-powered platform designed for educators to streamline tasks like lesson planning, rubric generation, and assessment creation. It offers over 60 tools, including a chatbot named Raina, to assist with teaching, personalized learning, and generating instructional materials across various subjects

Magic School Challenge

From September 18, 2025– October 6, 2025 educators will had the chance to compete in the Magic School Challenge. Participants explored innovative AI-powered tools designed to:

  • Save time on lesson planning

  • Boost student outcomes with curriculum-aligned supports

  • Enrich instruction with high-impact planning resources

Magic School tools available include:

  • Standards Unpacker

  • Common Misconceptions

  • DOK Questions

  • Assignment Scaffolder

  • Real World Connections

  • Buffalo Custom Lesson Plan Generator

Magic School Virtual Training Sessions

Magic School Educator Spotlight

Click to View Spotlights

Cohort Fall Ambassador Fall 2026

BPS staff Kristen Harrington and Shana Powers have been selected as AI Ambassadors for Magic School.

Magic School Challenge | Winners

Top participants were recognized, with special prizes on October 14, 2025.

WInners are Grant Gillan PS 198, Shana Powers PS 304, Hannah Blum PS 74,Nikky Abernathy

Magic School Challenge Winners of Dinner at Tappo Restaurant | Grant Gillan PS 198, Shana Powers PS 304, Hannah Blum PS 74 (Also Pictured Nikky Abernathy, Maria Muhlbauer, Kristen Harrington, Brianna Pride)

BPS Highlighted in Magic School Article!

Districts Leading the Way in AI Adoption 2026 | Magic School

Discover how leaders across nine school districts are approaching AI adoption in schools, supporting educators, and creating new opportunities for teaching and learning! Read Article.