The El Segundo Unified School District has been named a recipient of a 2026 AI K-12 Student Agency Award, recognizing its leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) integration.
The awards recognized 12 school districts nationwide for their principled approach to AI implementation, with a focus on authentic student voice, community co-design, and ethical implementation.
“This recognition reflects the thoughtful, collaborative work happening across our district to ensure AI enhances, rather than replaces, meaningful teaching and learning,” said Superintendent Dr. Jason Johnson. “We are committed to preparing our students for the future workforce, which includes equipping them with the skills to use artificial intelligence responsibly, creatively, and ethically. ”
El Segundo USD was specifically recognized for empowering students to play a leading role in shaping how AI is used in their schools. The district’s approach includes:
Aligning AI use to the district’s Graduate Profile
Establishing board-approved AI policies
Prioritizing educator training and ongoing professional learning
Implementing a TK-12 progression for AI literacy and responsible use
Elevating student voice through leadership opportunities, including a student-led AI symposium, student-run AI clubs in middle and high school, and student participation in the district’s AI committee
Committing to continuous reflection and improvement as AI evolves
The award was presented at the Student and Community Voice AI Summit, held March 19-21, 2026, in Anaheim. The summit brought together approximately 800 educators, students, parents, and community leaders and was co-hosted by Anaheim Union High School District, the University of California, Irvine School of Education, Inflexion, and Youth Engage.
"AI is a double-edged sword—it can enhance student agency and learning, but used poorly, it can cause harm and negatively impact the development of students' academic and social, emotional skills," said Brian Brady, founder of Youth Engage and co-organizer of the Summit. "These award-winning districts are models for how to navigate this challenging technology in a wise, critical, and inclusive manner."
To learn more about the AI K-12 Student Agency Awards, visit the official website: https://ai-student-agency-awards.vercel.app/