AI for Parents and Educators (Presented by Candy Baracat-Donovan)

Have you ever wondered…

• What tools fall under the umbrella of "AI"?

• Is using ChatGPT or other tools just an updated form of cheating?

• What is the real environmental impact of using tools like ChatGPT?

• What do I need to teach my kids about AI ethics and safety?

• Can students use AI in ways that support creativity and critical thinking?

• Is there a way to use AI in a way that feels manageable, responsible, and actually helpful?

AI for Parents and Educators is a practical workshop that explores how parents and educators - whether homeschooling, in private schools, or public classrooms - can use AI as a tool for deeper learning, smoother planning, and modern-day skill building. We’ll break down what AI is (and isn’t), discuss its environmental impact and impact on the future job market, talk about how to use it ethically, and outline ways to empower your students with digital discernment and curiosity. You’ll walk away with sample prompts, creative use cases, and ideas for both academic and home organization support - plus, answers to your big questions about AI in society and education 

Presenter Candy Baracat-Donovan is a homeschooling parent, educator, small business owner, and digital strategist who works at the intersection of progressive values and practical tools. She helps families manage the mental load of parenting, supports civic engagement, and teaches others how to integrate AI into their workflows in ways that are ethical, accessible, and empowering. At home, she uses AI to streamline lesson planning, spark creativity, and encourage independent learning across grade levels - and she believes every parent and educator can do the same with the right mindset and tools.