Artificial Intelligence has quickly become integrated into every aspect of our lives. To ensure the next generation knows how to harness this new technology, HFSV has launched a program called AI Digital Literacy to teach basic AI skills to high school graduates pursuing a STEM degree.

AI Digital Literacy is a future-ready addition to our Seed (K-12) phase, the first step in our three-phase STEM-to-career pipeline. Teaching students how to use AI better equips them to succeed in their STEM college courses.

Why AI and Why Now?

Education is rapidly evolving to integrate Artificial Intelligence in the classroom. Students well-versed in using AI to its fullest potential will be able to complete homework faster, solve problems more effectively, and study more efficiently.

Throughout the 16-hour program, students build foundational AI knowledge while developing practical digital literacy, responsible AI use, career readiness, and creative design skills. Our AI Digital Literacy program covers: AI concepts and practical uses; different tools and programs; safety and ethical use; career prep and educational resources; and graphic design with AI. This new program, launched in partnership with EveryoneOn and supported by Micron Technology, provides additional education to ensure these students can excel.

About the Program: More Than Just a Classroom

This isn’t just a traditional computer class. Our AI Digital Literacy program is a comprehensive pilot designed for high school seniors who are ready to take their first steps into a STEM major or apprenticeship.

The first 2 cohorts consist of students from East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD) Class of 2026 who attended a Cal-SOAP or TRiO public school site and are enrolled (or planning to enroll) in a STEM major or pathway at a Community College, 4-year university, or Apprenticeship Program.

What makes this program unique is the implementation of a joint parent-student curriculum. Many of these students lack reliable internet access and a computer, which is why each student receives a free laptop. By directly addressing the digital divide, students can practice what they are learning in the program with their families at home.

The Curriculum: Skills for the Future

The curriculum, developed by EveryoneOn, provides hands-on experience to take learners from AI beginners to confident creators:

• Foundations of AI: The history of AI, an overview of the concepts of Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Language Learning Models, and the differences between Generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and CoPilot
• Practical Tools & Safety: How to craft an effective prompt for Generative AI platforms, how to recognize bias through critical thinking, and what information should not be shared when using these tools
• Career & Education Exploration: Job preparation, including identifying skill gaps, editing resumes and cover letters, and simulating job interviews
• Creative Design with Canva: An introduction to Canva’s “Magic Write”, a graphic design tool, to create professional-quality images, graphics, and flyers

Building a Connected Silicon Valley

The ultimate goal of the AI Digital Literacy program is to foster a connected, confident, and AI-literate generation of Latino youth. By equipping our students with these essential tools today, we ensure they have the skills to become the STEM professionals of tomorrow. Click here to support programs like this.