Overview

• Newsom’s office signed non-binding memoranda of understanding with the four tech firms to supply AI software, courses and credentials at no cost to California’s public education institutions
• Adobe will expand age-appropriate access to Adobe Express and Firefly in K–12 classrooms while Google offers its Generative AI for Educators course to all state teachers
• IBM will integrate AI and machine-learning modules into community college and high school programs and Microsoft will deliver AI literacy, cybersecurity training and Copilot workshops
• The partnerships follow a year-long state report recommending guard rails for ethical AI deployment and emphasize analytical skills and creative engagement
• Stakeholders have begun planning implementation under state-specified best practices as some educators raise questions about AI’s classroom effectiveness and potential risks