Last week, eighteen outstanding Okaloosa County educators recently completed the FSU InSPIRE teacher certification program—an immersive, week-long professional learning experience focused on artificial intelligence (AI) prompt engineering and robotics integration in the classroom. Hosted by Florida State University’s InSPIRE (Institute for Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Research & Education), this transformative opportunity equips teachers with the tools and knowledge to create future-ready learning environments. Participants earned industry-recognized certifications and gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge instructional technologies thanks to FSU’s dynamic partnerships with Microsoft, MantisEdu, and Sciberus.
“Empowering our teachers to embrace innovation is essential to preparing students for the careers of tomorrow,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Through the FSU InSPIRE program, our educators are gaining new strategies and technologies to spark curiosity and creativity in their classrooms.” Throughout the 35-hour course, teachers received personalized mentoring, access to a standards-aligned curriculum, and networking opportunities with regional STEM leaders. The program is designed and facilitated by experts at FSU’s Learning Systems Institute, home to the Florida Center for Research in STEM and a recognized leader in STEM development and teacher support.
FSU InSPIRE’s work across Northwest Florida is part of a long-standing effort—over a decade in the making—to support teacher growth, student achievement, and workforce readiness in the region. Initially funded by Triumph Gulf Coast, the initiative remains a vital investment in the future of education and the local economy. To learn more about the InSPIRE program and its impact on educators across Northwest Florida, visit https://inspire.fsu.edu.