Utah students in grades 10–12 have an opportunity to win up to $1,000 and represent San Juan County in a statewide conversation about artificial intelligence in education.
The “Shaping Utah’s AI Future” Essay Contest asks students to propose specific policies for how AI should be used in Utah schools. Students may address questions about when AI should be allowed, how student data should be protected, who should approve AI tools and which decisions should be made by the state, school districts, schools or teachers.
The top three essays will receive cash prizes:
First place: $1,000
Second place: $500
Third place: $250
One student from each of Utah’s 29 Senate districts will also be selected to attend the Utah Student AI Policy Congress at the Utah State Capitol on Nov. 20–21.
Delegates will debate AI proposals, participate in student caucuses and vote on a Utah Student AI Policy Resolution. The final resolution will be presented to state policymakers as a statement of students’ perspectives on AI in Utah schools.
Essays must be 1,000–1,500 words and are due Oct. 1. Winners and Senate district delegates will be announced Oct. 15.
The contest is open to students in grades 10–12 attending public, charter or private schools, as well as microschools and homeschool programs.
San Juan School District encourages eligible students to participate and help ensure San Juan County has a voice in decisions about the future of AI in education.
View the complete contest rules and submission instructions: