2nd Annual Michigan Virtual AI Summit
December 17, 2024
Lansing Center
333 E Michigan Ave
Lansing, MI 48933
Join Michigan Virtual and the Statewide AI Workgroup, bringing together K-12 educators and national AI experts for a day of conversation and innovative learning around the thoughtful integration of AI in education!
Topics will span from classroom, administrative, and central office perspectives, from novice to expert levels of use to support where you are in your community's learning journey.

Refund Policy: The AI Summit will take place regardless of winter weather (it’s Michigan). Refunds will not be offered for attendees unable to join due to travel or weather circumstances.
Earn 5 SCECH Credits at the AI Summit!
Participants who attend the AI Summit all day on December 17, 2024, will earn 5 State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs).
Keynote Speakers — Live and in Person!

Ethan Mollick
Ethan Mollick is an Associate Professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he studies and teaches innovation and entrepreneurship, and also examines the effects of artificial intelligence on work and education. His papers have been published in top journals and his book on AI, Co-Intelligence, is a New York Times bestseller. His research is highly cited by other academics, and has been covered by CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and other leading publications.
In addition to his research and teaching, Ethan is the Co-Director of the Generative AI Lab at Wharton, which builds prototypes and conducts research to discover how AI can help humans thrive while mitigating risks. Prior to his time in academia, Ethan co-founded a startup company, and he advises numerous organizations. Mollick received his PhD and MBA from MIT’s Sloan School of Management and his bachelor’s degree from Harvard University.

Matt Mervis
Matt Mervis directs AI strategy at EdAdvance (the Educational Service Agency in Litchfield, CT) and is co-host of the AI in Education Podcast ChatEDU.
In addition, Matt leads the Skills21 team at EdAdvance where he's focused on enabling project-based learning and AI. Matt has deep experience in education having served in a range of roles including teacher, professional development specialist, district technology director and product developer. Matt presents frequently on AI and the future of education for regional and national audiences.
Agenda
Bring your device as many sessions will be interactive explorations!
7:45 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration and Breakfast
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Opening Keynote: Matt Mervis
Presenter: Matt Mervis, Director, Skills21 & AI Strategy at EdAdvance
Session Description: Artificial Intelligence tools are influencing our lives and redefining the education landscape at a rapid pace. Vital skills such as critical thinking, managing ambiguity, and creativity are becoming increasingly important as we prepare students for a future deeply intertwined with AI.
This talk and hands-on illustration will cover:
- A brief history of AI, setting a foundation for understanding its evolution.
- An objective look at AI's potential risks, addressing ethical and privacy concerns.
- A deep dive into AI's role in education, showcasing its potential to elevate student learning and teacher practice.
- A framework to address the "cheating" concern and strategies for educators to harness AI for curriculum and administration.
During the presentation, individuals and teams will have an opportunity to examine prompting with multiple AI tools and understand how to leverage AI in their work.
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Breakout Sessions
Presenter(s): Shana Ramin, Technology Integration Specialist, Oakland Schools
Session Description: Ever wondered which AI chatbot reigns supreme? In this interactive session, we'll pit today’s leading chatbots head-to-head, exploring their unique features, strengths, and limitations. Witness the AI titans clash as we break down their power moves and reveal where they might stumble. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the best AI sidekick for your specific needs, whether for boosting productivity, sparking creativity, or enhancing learning. May the best chatbot win!
Presenter(s): Andrea Watkins, Technology Integration Specialist; Kelly Meyering, Technology Integration Specialist, Oakland Schools
Session Description: Come explore how to harness the power of AI to implement Universal Design for Learning and create a flurry of possibilities for all students! Just as no two snowflakes are alike, every student is unique—learn to create inclusive, engaging, and supportive environments where each one can thrive. Don’t miss this opportunity to forge new, accessible paths through the snowy landscape of education!
Presenter(s): Danielle Peck, Professional Learning Specialist, Michigan Virtual
Session Description: AI poses a lot of ethical quandaries: it can interfere with academic integrity, perpetuate a myriad of biases, and introduce misinformation (and those are just a few examples!). How can we start and sustain conversations around these issues, both for ourselves and with our students? In this session, we'll use a helpful anchor resource to identify possible answers to this question. You'll discover how AI ethics are relevant to your subject area and identify ways to incorporate this important topic into your practice.
Presenter(s): Aaron Baughman, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, Northville Public Schools
Session Description: As AI and other cutting-edge technologies reshape education, how can school leaders build a culture that embraces innovation and leads the way in unfolding these great opportunities for your teachers, students and districts. This session will focus on leadership strategies to foster collaboration, creativity, and responsible AI integration throughout your school or district. Learn how to drive continuous improvement and student success by adopting forward-thinking practices and creating an environment where educators and students thrive with the help of AI. Participants will leave with actionable steps to lead their schools into the future of learning.
Presenter(s): Ryan Bruder, Executive Director of Instruction; Beau Kimmey, Instructional Coach; Matt Bell, Technology Specialist II; Dalton Fietzer, Technology Specialist; Sarah VanDeRyt, Technology Specialist, Dexter Community Schools
Session Description: The DCS AI Team will give an overview of how we created, set guardrails and are hosting our own LLM tool on district servers for teacher and student use. The thought process, challenges, opportunities and lessons learned will be shared with participants.
Presenter(s): Dr. Shawn Bishop, Associate Executive Director, MASA; Dr. Tovah Sheldon, School Design Strategist, Michigan Virtual
Session Description: How does AI show up in coaching? With a variety of coaching spaces (for/with leaders, educators, & students) we will explore AI tools and multiple uses/behaviors that might be helpful in coaching. Such as– Notetaking & concept development tools assisting leadership coaches with full engagement; Video/Sound Usage tools and tips for instructional coaching to come beside teachers with modeling, co-observation and more; Content/Subject-specific coaching tech that is direct/immediate customized feedback for student learning). The audience will also generate and share their experiences/ideas for use… Crowdsourcing a mass number of resources and ideas for everyone attending. Additionally, we’ll unpack why we need to be intentional in the use of AI, as well as, where/when to keep the ‘human in the loop’ since safety and trust are key aspects of highly effective coaching experiences.
Presenter(s): Ben Hicks, Associate Executive Director of Training and Development, MAASE
Session Description: Numerous innovative a.i. tools have been developed to help special education practitioners increase efficiency with everything from paperwork completion to IEP creation. This session will explore some of those tools and engage participants to think of creative ways that they can apply the learning in their context.
Presenter(s): Karle Delo, AI Strategist, Michigan Virtual
Session Description: Do your students suffer from post-test amnesia? Why is it so common for students to forget information shortly after a test? In this session, you'll discover how to use research-based strategies from the popular books Make It Stick and Powerful Teaching to interrupt the forgetting process and promote long-term retention. We'll explore how AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini can be used to enhance these strategies by generating retrieval practice activities and ideas for spaced repetition. You'll leave with a toolkit of low-prep, AI-infused activities that you can implement immediately in your secondary or upper elementary classrooms, regardless of subject area.
Presenter(s): John Brahier, Associate Superintendent for Catholic Culture, Archdiocese of Detroit
Session Description: This session, guided by the words of Pope Francis, will explore four primary questions: What is AI? What are four education-specific concerns related to AI? What is a principle we can use to guide our use of AI in schools? How might AI provide us with a particular evangelical opportunity?
Presenter(s): David Young, Director of Research and Development, Michigan Virtual
Session Description: In today's world, students need to develop fluency in basic AI literacy skills to navigate the growing presence of AI in everyday life and work. This session explores strategies and provides resources to support students in developing essential AI literacy skills. We will offer practical approaches for integrating AI literacy into your curriculum, whether you're looking to add elements of AI awareness to subject-specific lessons or develop a comprehensive AI literacy program. This session will draw heavily from AI Literacy resources and curriculum developed at Michigan Virtual for middle and high school students. Key topics include: An introduction to AI (what is AI and how does it work), navigating ethical issues related to AI (copyright and ownership, bias, data and privacy), and preparing for an AI future (education and work in light of AI). You'll leave with specific ideas and resources to support students in developing their understanding of AI and how to use it effectively.
Presenter(s): Danielle Humphrey, REMC Support Specialist; Stefani Boutelier, MACUL Board Member; Anna McCrumb, REMC 12E Director; Lauren Villaluz, Instructional Design Consultant, Oakland Schools; Kerri deBest, Middle School Teacher Bridgeman Schools
Session Description: Step into a dynamic, open-format conversation with the MACUL Women's Forum as four inspiring women share their unique journeys through the evolving world of AI in education and technology. "Humanizing AI" delves into real experiences and challenges of addressing AI biases in our schools, offering a fresh perspective on building inclusive, ethical, and empowering digital spaces for all learners. Join us in this un-panel—where your voice is just as essential as our panelists'—to explore how we can collectively shape AI to support diversity, equity, and belonging in education. This is more than a session; it’s a community conversation, and you’re invited to be a part of it!
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Lunch & Networking
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Afternoon Keynote
Presenter(s): Karle Delo & Justin Bruno, AI Strategists, Michigan Virtual; Aaron Baughman, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Northville Public Schools
Keynote Description: Hear from Michigan Virtual's AI Strategists, Karle Delo and Justin Bruno, in a conversation with Northville Public School's Aaron Baughmann, as they share an overview of the landscape of artificial intelligence in Michigan's K-12 education system. This discussion will examine current AI integration initiatives including policy rollouts, tool pilots, professional development initiatives, and what the future of AI in schools will look like as we settle into a new normal.
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
Breakout Sessions
Presenter(s): Tammy Maginity, MACUL Executive Director; Ann Smart, Tech Consultant/Lenawee ISD; MACUL Board
Session Description: Get ready to dive into the world of educational AI in this interactive “Shark Tank”-style session! In teams, you’ll take on a classroom scenario, select an AI tool, and pitch your solution to our panel of expert “Sharks”—each with a unique focus on pedagogy, ethics, tech integration, and student experience. Expect quick thinking, collaboration, and real-world insights as you aim to earn the Sharks’ “investment” in your idea. Leave with fresh AI tools, practical tips, and inspiration for impactful classroom innovation. Are you ready to swim with the Sharks?
Presenter(s): Katie Booth, Principal; Deavon Caudill, Principal; Deagon Jewett, Principal; Kelly Lindsay, Principal; Joe Reimann, Principal; Amy Terry, Principal; Northville Public Schools
Session Description: Looking to build stronger connections with staff? Feeling buried behind paperwork getting in the way of moving your school forward? In this session, five principals give authentic examples of how Artificial Intelligence can enhance your current practices, streamline administrative tasks, and improve student outcomes. Whether your biggest challenge is preparing for a difficult conversation, the time it takes to prepare impactful professional development, being stuck on observation feedback, or the myriad of "Other Duties As Assigned," this differentiated approach will support you with targeted tools you can use starting tomorrow. Take the non-essential off your plate to spend time on what matters most!
Presenter(s): Aaron Baughman, Asst Superintendent, Northville Public Schools; Jen Baughman, Middle School Teacher, South Redford School District
Session Description: Discover how AI can transform student engagement in your classroom through innovative tools and strategies. A conversation between a brave assistant superintendent and a bold classroom teacher reveals the benefits they’ve learned together. This session will explore AI-driven technologies like AI-based learning activities, learning apps, and real-time AI-assisted feedback platforms that can boost student motivation, interaction, and participation. Whether you’re new to AI or already incorporating it into your lessons, you’ll leave with practical tips and ready-to-use tools that can enhance the learning experience and foster deeper student involvement.
Presenter(s): Andy Mann, Instructional Technology Consultant,Director REMC 4
Session Description: Empower your students to generate study guides, podcasts, and summaries using Gemini, ChatGPT, and NoteBookLM. Explore AI apps to convert PDFs, videos, and handwritten notes into concise summaries and engaging content. Learn how AI can streamline content creation, making it easier for students to analyze texts, extract key ideas, and create personalized learning aids, all while saving time and fostering creativity.
Presenter(s): Melinda Waffle, Professional Learning Coordinator, REMC
Session Description: The AI Summit is over, what is next? Michigan Educators can join a Community of Practice cohort to engage in learning, collaboration and networking between the AI Summit and the end of the school year. Cohorts will meet regularly, using interactive workshops, resource sharing, and peer-to-peer discussions to continue relevant learning. Participants will develop practical applications for generative AI through a professional network that fosters ongoing reflection and innovation.
Presenter(s): Chad Williams, MEA UniServ Consultant; Julie Darling, School Librarian, Ann Arbor Public Schools; Rebecca Lowe, School Librarian / President Elect - Michigan Association of School Librarians, Lake Orion Community Schools
Session Description: This breakout session explores the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Michigan education, with a unique focus on how the Michigan Education Association (MEA) and its members engage with AI through policy advocacy, instructional practice, and collaborative roles. Participants will gain insights into the intersection of AI with state and national education policy, examining how MEA’s advocacy efforts shape ethical AI integration in institutions of learning in the K12 and higher education setting. An additional focus will be given to the role of school librarians who are often the heart of the school, uniquely bridging student learning, educator collaboration, and provide critical support and resources, ensuring equitable access and ethical engagement with AI tools.
Presenter(s): Matt Mervis, Director, Skills21 & AI Strategy at EdAdvance
Session Description: In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore how AI is transforming education and the ways in which we can adapt to create more meaningful assessments. You’ll learn how to identify vulnerable tasks that AI can easily complete, and how to shift toward building durable assignments that challenge students to think critically, collaborate, and engage deeply. Through guided practice using AI tools, you’ll develop lessons and assessments that resist AI shortcuts. Once you've mastered these durable techniques, we’ll dive into how AI can be integrated into these new assessments in a safe, productive, and ethical manner—empowering you to enhance student learning in the age of AI.
Presenter(s): Dr. Shawn Bishop, Associate Executive Director; Phil Marrah, Creative Strategist; Kayla Horton, Communications Coordinator; Chelsey M.B. Martinez, Chief of Staff, MASA
Session Description: Join us for a lively and interactive session where we'll dive into the exciting world of AI through a playful lens. Designed for educators, instructional coaches, administrators, and anyone curious about AI, this session offers a low-pressure, fun-filled exploration of innovative AI tools.
Our team will showcase a variety of AI applications that spark creativity and joy—from art generators and logo creators to music composition and voice synthesis. We'll present tools like Suno, NotebookLM, Adobe Firefly, Perplexity, and more, sharing interesting features and demonstrating how they can be used both professionally and just for goofy fun. Want to be completely serious and startched shirt, don’t attend.
Presenter(s): Melissa Gordon & Jennifer Colby, Teachers, Ann Arbor Public Schools
Session Description: Are you looking to work smarter, not harder? AI tools can be your assistant in developing instructional resources. These tools have blended in with society and in this session educators can learn to leverage them for more engaging and effective classroom instruction. This session will cover best practices for integrating AI into lessons, guiding students on ethical use, and preventing over-reliance. Through hands-on activities and a customized flowchart, teachers will explore how AI can enhance creativity, streamline lesson planning, and create personalized learning experiences for diverse student needs.
Presenter(s): Andrea Zellner, Learning Design Consultant, Oakland Schools
Session Description: With the arrival of Generative AI chatbots and agents, school, districts, and communities have rushed to make sense of how this technology will impact teaching and learning. In this session, we will explore a project based learning experience designed to engage students in critical reflection and speculative futures that invites student agency to the AI conversation.
Presenter(s): Tom Lietz, Associate Director of Training and Development; Colin Ripmaster, Deputy Executive Director, MASSP
Session Description: Schools and districts are on the cusp of integrating AI, yet conversations with stakeholders—from parents to staff—remain critical. This session will guide participants in crafting a communication plan that addresses community concerns, raises awareness, and fosters transparency about AI’s role in education. Through group activities and shared insights, participants will develop a customizable outreach strategy that respects ethical considerations and strengthens community buy-in, drawing on the Michigan Virtual AI Framework to support a robust approach to AI integration.
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Closing Keynote: Ethan Mollick
Presenter: Dr. Ethan Mollick, Associate Professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
Keynote Description: In this thought-provoking speech, join Wharton Professor Ethan Mollick as he dives into the highly discussed, transformative realm of AI. Discover how AI, including chatbot technologies like ChatGPT, has disrupted our work and our entire way of life, leaving an indelible mark akin to the Covid pandemic. Rather than fight the current we’re already in, Ethan shifts the conversation towards a more pivotal question: How can we thoughtfully and consciously embrace AI to propel innovation and shape our future?
With dynamic and interactive elements integrated into his speech, Ethan sparks curiosity. He takes audiences on an exploration of the boundless opportunities and incredible possibilities in this era of AI revolution.
4:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Closing Remarks and Conference Wrap-Up
Hotel Room Block
For your convenience, Michigan Virtual has reserved a block of rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton Lansing; for out-of-town participants of the AI Summit. Please note the cutoff date for the room block is Sunday, November 17 and when these rooms are gone, they're gone!
How to make a room reservation:
- Visit DoubleTree By Hilton Lansing
- Select room type and complete the Hotel Booking Form.
- For date adjustment needs, please change Check-in and Check-out date box at the top of site.
- The booking form will ask for the guest details and email address.
- Secure payment option is the section of the booking form that holds your credit card details. Input your credit card information.
- Once you have completed this step click the “Make Reservation” button and your reservation will be sent immediately to the Hotel.
To make a room reservation by phone call 1-833-904-2206, and reservations can assist with securing rooms. It is important that each of your guests identify themselves as part of the 2nd ANNUAL MI VIRTUAL SUMMIT group and provide reservations the code “AMV” to receive the discounted group rate.
Sponsored By

Special gratitude to Michigan Premier Events as event-management partner of the AI Summit