Oxford High School Launches Groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence Course

Oxford High School Pioneers Groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence Education

The Oxford School District (OSD) is making headlines with an exciting new initiative: the launch of "Introduction to Artificial Intelligence I & II" at Oxford High School this fall. This isn't just another new class; it marks a significant milestone as Oxford High becomes the first public high school in Mississippi to offer a dedicated, comprehensive course in artificial intelligence.

Developed through an innovative partnership with EdgeTheory, a Mississippi-based AI-powered narrative intelligence company, this course bridges the gap between cutting-edge industry and K-12 education. It's a testament to a forward-thinking approach aimed at equipping students with the skills crucial for the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

What Students Will Gain: Practical Skills for Tomorrow's World

Offered within Oxford High School’s robust Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, the course will be housed in the new Career Pathways Building. Students enrolled will delve into the fundamentals of AI, gaining a foundational understanding of this transformative technology. But the learning extends far beyond textbooks:

• Industry Insights: Students will benefit from direct engagement with professionals in the AI field, providing invaluable real-world perspective.
• Hands-On Experience: Field visits to EdgeTheory’s lab will offer practical exposure to AI applications and development.
• Valuable Certifications: A unique opportunity awaits students to earn certifications directly through EdgeTheory, enhancing their resumes and future prospects.

The immediate impact of such practical, career-focused education is already evident. Carter Kirk, a 2025 Oxford High graduate, shared his transformative experience interning with EdgeTheory during his high school years. He highlighted gaining "hands-on experience with CRMs" and tackling "real challenges alongside an experienced and driven team," emphasizing how it "opened new doors" for his future. This is precisely the type of real-world preparation the OSD aims to deliver through its CTE offerings.

Collaborative Vision for a Future-Ready Workforce

This pioneering curriculum is the result of a concerted effort by key leaders: Dr. Duncan Gray (OSD’s Director of Community and Workforce Development), Nate Flake (Director of Programs at EdgeTheory), Ryan Miller (CEO, Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation), and Thomas Herrington (OSD’s Instructional Technology Coordinator and class instructor). Their collaborative vision has shaped a course designed not just to teach about AI, but to empower students to critically engage with it.

As instructor Thomas Herrington aptly puts it, "For students today, AI is like a lightbulb. It not only is a useful tool, but it affects how they see everything else." He stressed the course's dual objective: teaching students "how to use AI as a tool and also discern what is real and what isn’t — and then to make wise decisions based upon that." This emphasizes a crucial aspect of AI literacy – critical thinking and ethical use.

This initiative aligns perfectly with the broader mission of the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation, which actively seeks strategies to fortify the region's future workforce. Ryan Miller, their CEO, articulated this connection clearly: "I believe ALL education is work-force development. We educate students to be life-long learners, but we’re also equipping them to be professionals in whatever field they choose. AI is a tool to help them navigate this process, to more acutely prepare them."

The course strategically intersects with key growth areas identified for the region: financial services technologies (fintech), entrepreneurship and innovation, pharmaceutical and medical device technology, and research and development. By providing foundational AI skills, Oxford High School is directly contributing to building a talent pipeline for these emerging industries, ensuring its students are prepared for a diverse range of high-demand careers.

Investing in Innovation for Student Success

The "Introduction to Artificial Intelligence" course represents more than just an academic addition; it symbolizes the Oxford School District’s deep commitment to innovation, workforce readiness, and fostering meaningful community partnerships. In an era where technology constantly reshapes our world, Oxford High School is taking proactive steps to provide its students with the essential tools, experiences, and knowledge needed not just to adapt, but to thrive and lead in future careers.

This proactive approach ensures that Oxford students are not just learning about the future, but actively shaping their place within it. It's a clear signal that the district is dedicated to delivering immediate, tangible value that genuinely sparks student interest and empowers their educational and professional journeys.