Montana Digital Academy

About two dozen Missoula-area teachers pondered the uses and risks of artificial intelligence in the classroom at a first-of-its-kind AI “playdate” Thursday night.

A first-of-its kind guide to help Montana schools develop artificial intelligence policies released Tuesday.

As Montana schools struggle to fill classrooms with qualified educators, a growing number are turning to virtual teachers to fill the gap. But, online learning isn’t a great fit for every student, and some schools are struggling to balance student needs with the reality of the teacher shortage.