Designing for Depth: AI for Teachers, From Foundations to Innovation - Florida Council of Independent Schools

THREE-PART VIRTUAL SERIES OVERVIEW

September 22 | October 6 | October 20, 2026

Series Description: This three-part workshop series empowers educators to become intentional designers of authentic learning in an AI-enhanced classroom. Participants will explore how AI can deepen student thinking, increase engagement, and support meaningful, real-world learning experiences. Through exploration and practical examples, educators will move from understanding AI’s possibilities to designing lessons that align with their goals and values. Each session builds on the last—guiding teachers from foundational concepts to innovative classroom application. By the end of the series, participants will leave with ready-to-use strategies and a clear vision for integrating AI in ways that elevate teaching and learning.

Session 1

Session 1: Foundations for Depth: Rethinking Teaching and Learning with AI
Date: September 22

Session Description: This session introduces educators to AI through the lens of authentic learning design, focusing on why it matters—not just how it works. Participants will explore how AI is reshaping the skills students need and what that means for classroom practice. Rather than focusing on tools alone, this session centers on shifting mindsets from content delivery to intentional design for deeper thinking. Educators will begin identifying opportunities where AI can enhance, not replace, meaningful learning experiences. By the end, participants will have a clear foundation for using AI purposefully and responsibly in their classrooms.

Bonus: Hear from FCIS teachers on how they have rethought teaching and learning with AI. Also join a breakout room specifically for your division (LS, MS, US) to have a discussion specific to your unique learners.

Session 2

Session 2: Designing with Intention: Creating Authentic Learning Experiences with AI
Date: October 6

Session Description: Building on foundational understanding, this session moves into practical application and lesson design. Educators will learn how to use AI to craft engaging, student-centered learning experiences that promote inquiry, creativity, and critical thinking. Through real classroom examples and guided design time, participants will explore how AI can support differentiation, feedback, and deeper engagement. The focus remains on aligning AI use with instructional goals and authentic outcomes. By the end of the session, educators will have started designing or refining a lesson that integrates AI in a meaningful way.

Bonus: Hear from FCIS teachers on how they have designed instruction with AI for authentic learning experiences, including seeing their examples and garnering resources. Also join a breakout room specifically for your division (LS, MS, US) to have a discussion specific to your unique learners.

Session 3

Session 3: From Practice to Innovation: Elevating Learning Through AI
Date: October 20

Session Description: In the final session, educators will push beyond initial implementation to explore innovative and transformative uses of AI in teaching and learning. Participants will examine how AI can support student agency, collaboration, and real-world problem solving. The session will also address ethical considerations, responsible use, and how to guide students in becoming thoughtful users of AI. Educators will reflect on their designs and consider how to scale and sustain impactful practices in their classrooms or schools. By the end, participants will leave with a forward-looking vision and actionable strategies to continuously evolve their teaching with AI.

Bonus: Hear from FCIS teachers on how they have guided students in using AI in creative and impactful ways, including seeing their examples and garnering resources. Also join a breakout room specifically for your division (LS, MS, US) to have a discussion specific to your unique learners.

SERIES SPEAKER

MEET THE SPEAKER

MEET THE SPEAKER

Evelyn McCulloch is Director of Technology and Accreditation Support at FCIS, where she leads technology operations and supports accreditation systems for our member schools. Previously, she and her team started i-Tech for Schools, supporting over 50 independent schools with technology and launching the Orlando Learning Summit.

With 20 years of experience in schools including Park Maitland and the International School of Beijing, she has led innovation in teaching and learning. Evelyn serves on the board of Konekte Haiti, is a Google Certified Trainer, and presents at major education conferences. She and her husband have three children adopted from Central Florida’s foster care system.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registration:

Member - $59 Individual Session | $199 Three-part Series
Non-Member - $89 Individual Session | $299 Three-part Series

Location: Zoom
Zoom information, link to connect, and password will be shared closer to the event.

Registration Deadline: 1 week prior to the event date

Cancellation & Refunds: Workshop refund requests must be made in writing and emailed to Keara Danger at kdanger@fcis.org. There is a $10 per person processing fee for requests made up to 1 week prior to the event date, with no refunds after this date.

Questions? Contact Nicole Robison at nrobison@fcis.org.