Artificial Intelligence is Sending Shockwaves Throughout our Educational System


In these transformative times, Vermont educators need the knowledge to use AI effectively in their practice and to empower students to navigate these technologies safely, responsibly, and productively.

“Your AI Therapist Will See You Now”

Join us for our next community speaker series which examines AI's role in mental health care. This panel discussion brings together experts from technology, medicine, and student wellness. Panelists will examine emerging tools and strategies, including a demonstration of an AI-powered chatbot therapist, weighing both their promise and potential risks.

$15 in Advance | $20 at the Door, Cash Only
Complementary Tickets for Students with Student ID

Learn More

"AI is the most powerful technology humanity has ever created and it’s being deployed faster than any other tech in history."

Tristan Harris, co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology from ON with Kara Swisher June 2, 2023


aiVermont was founded in November 2023 as a nonprofit focused on AI literacy. Its mission is to help fill gaps in the support of education professionals, students and decision makers regarding the use of artificial intelligence for teaching and learning.


70% of teens say they have used at least one type of generative AI tool

Common Sense Media 2024 Report, The Dawn of the AI Era

97% of school leaders agree AI can positively impact education but only 35% say they have a generative AI initiative in place

Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) EdTech 2024 Report

58% of students do not feel that they have sufficient AI knowledge and skills, and 48% do not feel adequately prepared for an AI-enabled workplace

Digital Education Council Global AI Student Survey July 2024

Our Support Strategy

01

Education + AI Annual Summits

Explore AI in Education with our June flagship program, which offers educators networking and professional learning opportunities facilitated by renowned experts.

02

Regional Meetings and Professional Development

Between our larger gatherings, aiVermont will offer more targeted PD and discussions to delve deeper into issues with AI’s use specific to content area, educator roles, and student and local needs.

03

Online Collaborative Platform

Share and discuss experiences and research within a virtual community to help crowdsource the most effective uses of AI at the classroom, system, and policy levels.

What’s Next?

SECOND ANNUAL SUMMIT ON EDUCATION + AI
For All Levels (Pre K-College) & Disciplines
HULA, BURLINGTON
SATURDAY, JUNE 28, 2025

Questions or suggestions? Want to connect with us? Send us an email.
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Our team

aiVermont is working at the forefront of educational leadership and innovation, with a collective history that includes eight successful AI events attended by hundreds of participants over the past two years, a decade of pioneering K-12 STEAM programming through Burlington’s Generator makerspace, and nearly forty years of award-winning pre-K to college teaching, administration, and professional development.

Chris Thompson - Co-Founder

Chris Thompson
Co-Director

Denise Sherkerjian - Co-Founder

Denise Shekerjian
Co-Director

Marc Natanagara - Co-Founder

Marc Natanagara
Facilitator and K-12 Educator

Advisory Board

Katharine Shepherd
Dean of the College of Education & Social Services University of Vermont

Josiah Raiche 
Director of AI
State of Vermont 

Michael Metz
Board Trustee
Champlain College and
Vermont Academy of Science & Engineering 

Veronica Newton
Senior Director Programs & Partnerships Generator
Formerly, Program Manager
Vermont Agency of Education

Dan Harvey
Director of Operations
University of Vermont 
Office of the VP of Research 

Laurel Butler
Startup Business Advisor & Student/Educator Entrepreneur Specialist
Vermont Small Business Development Center

Laurie Quinn 
President of
The Stern Center for Language and Learning
Formerly,  President of
Champlain College

Ron Yara 
Formerly, General Partner
Tallwood Venture Capital, Sonic Blue, Intel 

Michelle LaFrancis 
Work Based Learning Coordinator
Spaulding High School, Barre

Our Sponsors

The Ruth & Peter Metz Family Foundation • David and L.J. Stiller • Maggie Eaton & Ron Yara