An independent judging panel will review submissions and assign scores based on the selection criteria. The judging panel will recommend up to 10 winners. Winning teams will receive an equal share of the $50,000 prize pool.

Selection criteria

All eligible submissions will be evaluated by an independent judging panel. Judges will assign up to 5 points for each of five selection criteria (for a total of up to 25 points).

AI understanding

The extent to which the submission demonstrates a clear understanding of how and why an AI solution would be effective, as well as implications of the solution, including safety and ethical use.

Impact

The extent to which the proposed solution creates a positive impact for a specific career path, employer, or industry.

Feasibility

The extent to which the proposed solution presents a realistic approach to incorporating AI, drawing on technology that is already available.

Collaboration

The extent to which the submission leverages the broader ecosystem, including employers, postsecondary institutions, community organizations, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Student engagement

The extent to which the submission demonstrates meaningful student involvement in planning and execution, including participation from a broad group of students and CTE programs.

Additional considerations

The Department of Education will review the judges’ recommendations. To ensure an even distribution of awards, the Department will consider additional characteristics when selecting winners from the top-scoring submissions; these characteristics include:

  • Geographic location and local population density.
  • Percentage of students enrolled in free and reduced price lunch programs under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1759), as amended through P.L. 116–6.
  • School size (number of students).
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