Utah State Board of Education honors AI leaders for statewide innovation impact

The Utah State Board of Education celebrated a significant milestone in educational innovation during the Standards and Assessment Committee meeting on May 2, 2025. The highlight of the gathering was the recognition of the board's staff for their groundbreaking work in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 education, which earned them the prestigious Education Innovation Showcase for Impact Award.

Deputy Superintendent Lee Voorhees expressed excitement over the recognition, emphasizing the board's commitment to academic excellence and the mission to create opportunities for all students. The award, presented on April 8, acknowledges the impactful AI initiatives led by staff members Sarah Young and Matt Winters, who spearheaded various projects, including Google fellowship programs and AI summits across Utah.

The committee members praised the award's significance, noting that it reflects the extensive reach of their efforts, impacting over 672,000 students statewide. The recognition stands out as a testament to the collaborative work of the entire steering committee for artificial intelligence within the agency.

In addition to the award, Young and Winters have garnered national attention for their presentations at conferences, inspiring other states to adopt similar AI strategies. The committee discussed the importance of showcasing their achievements, with plans to find a prominent display location for the award.

As Utah continues to lead the way in educational technology, the board's initiatives are setting a benchmark for other states, demonstrating the power of innovation in transforming education. The meeting concluded with a sense of pride in the collective efforts that have positioned Utah as a trendsetter in the integration of AI in schools.