The West Virginia Department of Education, in partnership with Prodigy Learning and Microsoft, is offering a new opportunity for middle and high schools across the state to help students build future-ready technology skills.
The AI Ready Skills Credential Program is available to West Virginia middle and high schools at no cost. Through this program, students can develop foundational knowledge in artificial intelligence while earning credentials that demonstrate their understanding and skills.
Kanawha County Schools is sharing this information so families, students, and educators are aware of the opportunity being made available by WVDE, Prodigy Learning, and Microsoft.
About the AI Ready Skills Credential Program
The AI Ready Skills program helps students develop foundational knowledge in artificial intelligence while giving them the opportunity to earn credentials that show what they know and can do.
The program is built around four major units:
Introduction to AI
Exploring Data and AI
Coding and AI
Practicing Responsible AI
Students learn through a series of Minecraft Education worlds and demonstrate their skills through formative and summative assessments, including a capstone credential exam.
Additional Credential Programs Included
In addition to AI Ready Skills, WVDE’s offering also includes free access to the Coding in Minecraft and Cyber in Minecraft credential programs.
Coding in Minecraft - helps students build coding skills using MakeCode, JavaScript, or Python. Students also strengthen important skills such as computational thinking, reasoning, and problem solving while working toward industry-recognized credentials.
Cyber in Minecraft - introduces students to important cybersecurity concepts, including digital citizenship, networking, and security. The program is designed to help students better understand how to stay safe online while preparing for the challenges of today’s digital world.
Professional Development for Educators
Schools have access to curriculum, credential pathways, and free professional development for teachers throughout the year.
Professional development will be available in multiple formats, including in-person, virtual, and self-paced options, to support educators as they bring these programs into classrooms.
Learn More
Families and educators can learn more or sign up on the AI Ready Skills website.