My proposal requests a $75,000 Spencer Foundation planning grant to research AI integration in rural special education across South Dakota and Wyoming. Rural SPED teachers face overwhelming challenges – managing 37% more students while spending over half their time on paperwork. Our team from Black Hills Special Services Cooperative, Dakota State University, and University of South Dakota will develop research frameworks to examine how AI can reduce administrative burdens and improve personalized learning for students with diverse needs, while ensuring equity and protecting student privacy. The 12-month project will position rural districts to benefit from technological innovation rather than falling further behind.

Links for Context

• Spencer’s Initiative on AI and Education
• Spencer Vision Grant Guidelines

Proposal Narrative