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Valley Stream 24 launches 2026'2030 strategic plan and rolls out AI, STEAM pilots in elementary schools
Summary
Superintendent presented a five-year strategic planning process and described pilots of AI tools (Abi robot, Magic Student, Canvas AI) and expanded STEAM work in school libraries; students and library media staff showcased hands-on projects that the district says support Vision 2030.
The Valley Stream 24 Union Free School District announced the launch of its 2026'2030 strategic planning process and highlighted new technology and STEAM initiatives aimed at elementary students.
Superintendent (speaker 1) told the board the district has begun staff and family surveys and will invite students in grades 4 through 6 to contribute to focus groups as a strategic planning committee prepares a draft plan for board review. "If you have not yet done so, we kindly encourage you to complete the survey that was sent through ParentSquare," the superintendent said.
The superintendent also described professional learning and pilots intended to increase AI literacy for teachers and students. The district trained administrators and technology staff in use of the Abi instructional tutoring robot and plans a kindergarten'grade 2 pilot to "monitor its impact on student learning," the superintendent said. The district is piloting Magic Student in grade 6 to provide supportive feedback for students and continues to employ Magic School and Canvas AI tools to assist teacher planning.
Dr. Keogh (speaker 4) framed the work as part of a broader innovation strategy that includes partnerships with a successful practices network and a learning consortium to develop materials for responsible AI use. "Major focus this year is AI literacy, which is part of year three's plan for Vision 2030," Dr. Keogh said.
Library media staff and students gave concrete examples of the district's hands-on work. A library media specialist (speaker 7) described libraries as "vibrant, beating hearts of our schools," with flexible seating and STEM activities that support collaboration. Students Isla Cowley and Malini Sain (speaker 6) told the board about classroom STEAM projects, such as a dish soap experiment and building structures with sticks and connectors. "Steam... always feels like an adventure," one student said.
The superintendent said a parent academy series on technology and AI will be offered to help families understand classroom tools and practices. The district plans to use survey and focus-group input to shape a draft strategic plan, which will be presented to the board for consideration and further public review.
Next steps: the strategic planning committee will review gathered data and present a draft plan to the board; the superintendent encouraged community members to participate in surveys and upcoming parent academy sessions.
