Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic fund AFT program to train teachers on classroom AI

Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic are backing a multi-year initiative with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to train educators on how to use AI in the classroom. According to reporting on October 20, 2025, the effort includes financial commitments and in-kind resources to help teachers adopt AI responsibly and improve student outcomes.

• Funding details reported: Microsoft is committing about $12.5 million; OpenAI is contributing $8 million plus approximately $2 million in technical support; Anthropic is pledging around $500,000 over five years.
• Focus: Practical training for educators on AI literacy, lesson planning with AI assistants, and classroom-ready guidelines for responsible and safe use.
• Why now: Schools are rapidly adopting generative AI tools, and teachers are seeking clear guidance, safeguards, and time-saving workflows.
• Who benefits: K–12 teachers and students across AFT-affiliated districts; outcomes may include AI-integrated curricula and new professional development tracks.

Why it matters: The partnership could shape how AI is introduced to millions of students, while raising important questions about vendor influence, data privacy, and long-term costs. Clear guardrails and transparency will be critical to build trust with educators, families, and communities.

Related context: OpenAI also published a new update on disrupting malicious uses of AI (October 19, 2025), outlining takedowns of abuse networks and stronger policy enforcement—an important backdrop as schools weigh safety and security. Read the update here and the full PDF here (PDF).

Sources: Coverage of the AFT initiative: report.

Discussion: Should Big Tech help set the agenda for AI in schools, or should districts prioritize independent, open tools and stricter privacy protections?