Funder: South Carolina Commission on Higher Education
Due Dates: September 29, 2026 (Intent to Submit, extended) | September 30, 2026 (Mandatory workshop) | November 6, 2026 (Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: One award of up to $120,000 per year for three years, subject to available funds
Summary: Supports an AI-enhanced clinical practice model preparing pre-service teachers for effective, ethical, and responsible AI use in PK–12 instruction.
Key Information: Applicants must be full-time tenure-track faculty at eligible South Carolina institutions with fully accredited educator preparation programs.
Description
The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE) will support one Center of Excellence for AI-Enhanced Educator Preparation through its FY 2026–27 Centers of Excellence initiative. Funded through the South Carolina Education Improvement Act of 1984, the program establishes resource centers that improve teacher education, conduct research, disseminate practices, and support rural and/or underperforming schools and districts.
The Center must develop, implement, and evaluate an AI-enhanced clinical practice model that strengthens pre-service teachers’ instructional decision-making, reflective practice, and self-assessment. It should expand individualized feedback and coaching under university supervisors and PK–12 mentor teachers. Expected outcomes include evidence-based guidelines for responsible AI use, emphasizing professional judgment in instructional planning, assessment, student data privacy, and decision-making.
