When Flemingsburg Elementary students began working on Blaze's Backpack, they weren't just learning about artificial intelligence — they were learning how to solve real-world problems.
Their journey through the Presidential AI Challenge took them from Kentucky champions to National Finalists, representing the Commonwealth on a national stage and showcasing what is possible when students are given opportunities to innovate.
"Dr. Evans and Wendy are always there for everything I could ever need or ask for," said Principal Kelly Acevedo. "I can't even begin to imagine the number of hours spent on professional learning over the past three years that helped provide the instruction, process, and platform used to develop our app."
For families, the impact was just as meaningful.
"It's inspiring to watch innovative problem-solving unfold in my own backyard," said Bonnie Brewer, parent of student Deacon Brewer. "This opportunity has encouraged our kids and facilitated the creation of a real solution."
"When students are given opportunities to explore emerging technologies, amazing things happen," said KEDC CEO Nancy Hutchinson. "The success of these students is a testament to what can be accomplished when educators, families, and partners work together to create meaningful learning experiences."
Congratulations to the students, families, educators, and partners who helped bring Blaze's Backpack to life and demonstrated that innovation can begin in any classroom, in any community, anywhere in Kentucky.