First Lady Melania Trump chaired a key session of the White House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Education this week, emphasizing the transformative role of AI in shaping America’s classrooms and preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving workforce.

Framing AI as America’s Next Engine of Progress

In her remarks, the First Lady described artificial intelligence as “the greatest engine of progress in the history of the United States of America,” adding that even in its early stages, the technology demands both ambition and responsibility. She urged leaders and educators to approach AI with a sense of guardianship, comparing its growth to raising a child—requiring both freedom to innovate and careful oversight.

She framed the current moment as one of “wonder,” urging schools and policymakers to act swiftly to prepare children for an AI-driven future.

Building on April’s Executive Order

The task force meeting followed President Trump’s April executive order establishing a national strategy to promote AI literacy in schools. The initiative seeks to ensure that students not only use AI but also understand its mechanics, ethics, and impact on society.

The September session marked the task force’s second gathering and was used to accelerate plans for curriculum development, teacher training, and collaboration with technology companies.

Spotlight on the “Presidential AI Challenge”

One highlight of the meeting was the promotion of the Presidential Artificial Intelligence Challenge, launched in August. The competition invites students and teachers across the country to design AI-based solutions to problems facing their local communities—ranging from environmental monitoring to public safety.

The challenge aims to foster creativity, technical skills, and civic engagement, while also showcasing how AI can be applied beyond the classroom. Early interest has been reported from schools in both urban and rural districts, with students proposing projects on topics such as water conservation, tutoring tools, and disaster response.

Balancing Innovation with Responsibility

Beyond excitement about innovation, the First Lady stressed the need for careful stewardship of AI. She highlighted both the opportunities and risks, urging that children’s safety, mental health, and ethical exposure remain central to any adoption in schools.

Educators at the event echoed these concerns, noting the importance of equipping teachers with the right training and resources so that technology complements, rather than replaces, human guidance in education.

A First Lady’s Ongoing Youth Focus

Melania Trump’s leadership on this initiative builds on her long-standing advocacy for children’s welfare, previously seen in her Be Best campaign. She has also personally embraced AI in creative ways, including featuring AI-generated narration in her recently released memoir.

By taking an active role in guiding AI policy in schools, the First Lady is positioning herself as a key voice in shaping how America’s youngest learners will grow up in a world where artificial intelligence is as fundamental as reading and math.