Atlanta Public Schools Hosts International Journalists to Showcase Innovation in Technology and AI Integration

Written by APS Department of Instructional Technology 

Atlanta Public Schools (APS) welcomed a delegation of international journalists as part of the Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists, providing an opportunity to highlight the district’s innovative approach to technology integration, digital citizenship, and artificial intelligence in education.

Approximately 20 journalists representing 16 countries, including Poland, Italy, Croatia, and others, visited APS to engage in discussions and experience firsthand how the district is preparing students for a connected, technology-driven world.

During the visit, APS’ Instructional Technology team shared how technology is intentionally embedded into teaching and learning to enhance, not replace, strong instructional practices. The session focused on helping students become active participants in their learning by emphasizing creation, collaboration, and critical thinking over passive consumption of digital content.

A key highlight of the visit was a dynamic conversation around “active versus passive” screen use, exploring how APS prioritizes meaningful, student-centered technology experiences that build digital literacy and responsible online behavior. Journalists also participated in an interactive demonstration using 99math, led by integration specialist James Wilborn, experiencing firsthand the level of engagement and excitement that technology-supported learning can bring to the classroom.

“We are intentional about ensuring that technology is used as a tool to deepen learning and expand opportunities for students,” said Dr. Natasha Rachell, Director of Instructional Technology for Atlanta Public Schools. “Our goal is to equip students not only with access to devices, but with the skills to think critically, create responsibly, and navigate digital spaces with confidence.” 

Content integration specialists, Jennifer Hall and Krynica Drake,  also highlighted how technology is meaningfully embedded into the curriculum with a clear focus on content and the learning task rather than the tool itself. Through specific examples across mathematics, science, social studies, and English language arts, they demonstrated how digital resources are used to deepen content understanding, support critical thinking, and enhance student engagement while remaining grounded in standards-aligned instruction.

The visiting delegation expressed strong appreciation for the session, noting APS’ leadership in one-to-one device access, meaningful classroom integration of technology, and forward-thinking approach to artificial intelligence in education. Many shared that the district’s work stands out globally in preparing students for the demands of an increasingly digital and information-rich society.

The visit reflects APS’ continued commitment to innovation, equity, and preparing all students for success in college, career, and life.