Austin, September 11, 2025
News Summary
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Alpha School to explore its innovative AI-driven learning model. The school leverages artificial intelligence to create customized lesson plans that accommodate individual learning needs, while employing guides instead of traditional teachers. With a dual focus on academic and life skills, Alpha School aims to enhance education accessibility, with the majority of students receiving financial aid. McMahon’s visit underscores the importance of integrating AI in education and her commitment to supporting diverse educational models across the country.
AUSTIN — U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Alpha School on Tuesday to investigate the innovative use of artificial intelligence in educational practices. The school has adopted an AI-driven learning model that enables students to progress through AI-generated lesson plans at their own pace, catering to individual learning needs and styles.
Co-founder MacKenzie Price explained that the school’s structure is markedly different from traditional education systems. Students only spend two hours in a conventional learning environment each day; the rest of their time is allocated to workshops and project-based learning. In lieu of traditional teachers, the school employs “guides” who help facilitate the learning process and motivate students.
While Alpha School utilizes AI technology, it does not permit the use of chatbots like ChatGPT. The AI is specifically harnessed to generate tailored learning resources for students, enhancing their educational experience without replacing human interaction. McMahon expressed her enthusiasm regarding the school’s innovative approach, noting its potential to combat the decline in student test scores recently reported in the Nation’s Report Card.
McMahon does not support imposing federal mandates on schools; instead, she aims to promote the sharing of best practices among successful educational models. According to Price, Alpha School’s AI model plays a significant role in bridging educational gaps exacerbated by the pandemic, creating personalized learning plans designed to address individual student needs.
Although Alpha School charges an annual tuition of $40,000, around 75% of its students receive some form of financial aid, making the school accessible to a broader population. The forthcoming Texas Education Savings Account program seeks to further assist families with the costs associated with private education, potentially aiding between 80,000 and 100,000 students.
McMahon’s visit to Alpha School is part of her goal to tour all 50 states to examine diverse educational models and advocate for school choice initiatives. Her observations emphasized the potential for schools to implement AI-driven models that empower educators and optimize educational outcomes.
Alpha School currently operates five campuses across Texas, with plans for expansion into additional states, reflecting its growing influence on alternative education. The Texas Education Commissioner has also expressed interest in integrating features of Alpha School’s model into public education across the state.
In line with these educational innovations, Texas lawmakers recently passed House Bill 8, which dismantles the STAAR exam system in favor of a series of three assessments throughout the academic year, designed to better align with individual student knowledge levels.
The educational approach at Alpha School aims to maintain a balance between academic preparedness and the development of life skills, ensuring that students not only grasp academic concepts but also gain valuable experience for real-world applications.
Key Features of Alpha School’s AI Model
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| AI-Powered Learning | Lessons are tailored to individual student needs using AI-generated plans. |
| Flexible Learning Environment | Two hours of traditional learning, with the remainder in workshops and projects. |
| Guidance Over Teaching | Guides assist students instead of traditional teachers to foster motivation. |
| Financial Aid Accessibility | 75% of students receive financial aid, making it more inclusive. |
| Expansion Plans | Current operations in five Texas campuses with plans for further expansion. |
FAQ
Why did U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visit Alpha School?
To explore the school’s innovative use of artificial intelligence in education.
What is unique about Alpha School’s learning model?
Students learn at their own pace with AI-generated lesson plans and spend significant time on project-based learning.
How does Alpha School financially support its students?
Alpha School charges an annual tuition of $40,000, but approximately 75% of its students receive financial aid.
How is technology being used in Alpha School?
AI is utilized to generate personalized learning resources while prohibiting the use of chatbots to maintain educational integrity.
Is there a new assessment system being implemented in Texas?
Yes, House Bill 8 was passed to replace the STAAR exam with three assessments throughout the academic year.
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