Hugh I. Peck Research Award Dr. Kollin Napier recognition highlights Dr. Kollin Napier’s work expanding AI education through the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN).
The Program of Research and Evaluation for Public Schools (PREPS) honored Napier, Director of MAIN, with the Hugh I. Peck Research Award.
Key Takeaways
- PREPS honored Dr. Kollin Napier with the Hugh I. Peck Research Award.
- The award recognizes contributions to educational research and development.
- The recognition highlights MAIN’s AI education, awareness, and training for K-12 educators in Mississippi.
- More than 2,100 educators have enrolled in AI courses through MAIN.
- MAIN has awarded more than 1,000 CEU, SEMI, and OSL credits to educators statewide at no cost.
Award Recognition
The Hugh I. Peck Research Award recognizes people and organizations that contribute to educational research and development. It also honors work that improves educational practice for students and educators.
For MAIN, this recognition points to the growing role of AI education in Mississippi schools. It also reflects strong demand for practical training that helps educators understand and use AI responsibly.
MAIN’s K-12 AI Education Work
The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) is Mississippi’s coordinated statewide AI initiative. MAIN supports AI education, literacy, workforce training, responsible adoption, and practical implementation.
In the original announcement, MAIN is described as the nation’s first and only statewide AI initiative. Through that work, MAIN has expanded AI education, awareness, and training for K-12 educators across Mississippi.
To date, more than 2,100 educators have enrolled in AI courses. As a result, more Mississippi educators can build the skills needed to integrate AI into classrooms and prepare students for the future.
In addition, MAIN has awarded more than 1,000 CEU, SEMI, and OSL credits. The announcement notes that these credits reached educators statewide at no cost.
Why This Matters
AI education in K-12 schools gives educators and students access to knowledge and tools for an evolving technological landscape. MAIN’s work supports that goal through training, awareness, and practical implementation.
Finally, this recognition from PREPS reinforces the statewide importance of advancing AI education in Mississippi.
Learn more about MAIN learning opportunities on the AI education and courses page.
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