Generative AI is rapidly reshaping conversations across education, with leaders exploring how this technology can expand access, strengthen instruction, and support student learning. Despite the seemingly ubiquitous conversations about what thoughtful adoption may look like, rural perspectives—representing more than 40% of U.S. districts—are often less visible. These schools and systems typically bring strengths like community-driven design and flexible approaches to meeting learner needs, while also navigating distinct constraints such as limitations around connectivity and specialist staffing. Rural schools present essential, yet often overlooked contexts for understanding what practical, equitable AI adoption can look like, and how promising approaches might spread to these new settings.
Recognizing the importance of capturing insights specific to rural communities, FullScale, in partnership with All4Ed, is launching the Rural AI Strategy Lab to elevate and learn alongside innovators in rural settings. Building on FullScale’s work with the School Teams AI Collaborative, the Exponential Learning Initiative, and ongoing research to address both urgent practice and policy needs, this initiative will learn directly from educators, leaders, and communities in rural regions of the U.S.
This work will unfold across two interconnected phases:
- A nationwide field scan: We’ll launch with a systematic review of how rural communities’ schools and districts are using AI today—what applications are emerging, what enabling conditions support progress, and what barriers require attention. This early work will help surface bright spots, promising opportunities, and areas where the field needs clearer guidance.
- A cohort-based learning network: Insights from the field scan will shape the design of a six-month network that will launch in early 2026. The Strategy Lab will engage 12–15 rural schools and districts in a facilitated, cohort-based learning experience where teams will receive coaching as they design, prototype, and test potential AI-enabled solutions from their local context. The goal is to generate practical models and resources that can help rural systems—and the broader field—navigate AI’s opportunities and challenges.
To extend impact beyond participating districts, we will share findings through openly available toolkits and resources, including recommendations and guidance for policy makers.
Recruitment for the Rural AI Strategy Lab will begin in January. In the meantime, if you are interested in learning more about the Strategy Lab, please complete this form or reach out to megan.benay@fullscalelearning.org for more information.
This project is made possible by generous support from Google.org.
