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New AI Leadership Academy Offers Practical Professional Development for Adult Education Administrators
Posted on 09/01/2026
Image from communitylearningpartners.com/bootcamp
Adult education administrators looking for practical ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve program operations, learner support, and data-driven decision-making have a new professional development opportunity this fall.
Community Learning Partners (CLP) and the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) have partnered to launch an AI Leadership Academy for Adult Education Administrators, a national cohort designed specifically for leaders seeking to explore real-world applications of AI in adult education settings. The academy will run from October 12 through December 11, 2026, and you can expect approximately one hour of engagement per week. The total cost for this 10-week program is $350.
Rather than focusing on theory, the academy emphasizes hands-on strategies that administrators can immediately apply within their programs. Participants will explore how AI can:
- support recruitment and outreach efforts
- improve learner communication
- strengthen student orientation and retention
- analyze program data
- streamline reporting processes
- enhance staff resources
- reduce time spent on repetitive administrative tasks
Additional topics include using AI to support grant development, planning, program evaluation, and labor market research to inform curriculum development and career pathway planning. Throughout the academy, participants are encouraged to bring their own program challenges, questions, and priorities, making the learning directly relevant to local needs.
Advantages
The cohort experience includes three live sessions, individualized coaching, Administrator Spotlight Talks featuring examples from the field, practical resources, and opportunities to collaborate with adult education administrators and state staff from across the country. The academy aims to help leaders move beyond experimentation and toward thoughtful implementation of AI tools that can increase efficiency and support student success.
Attend the Webinar to Learn More
For California adult education administrators interested in learning more before committing to the cohort, CLP and COABE will host a free informational webinar on Wednesday, September 2, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Attendees will see examples of the AI skills and applications covered in the academy, learn more about the cohort structure, and have an opportunity to ask questions about participation.
As AI continues to influence educational and workplace practices, professional learning opportunities that focus on responsible, practical implementation can help adult education leaders make informed decisions about emerging technologies. California administrators interested in exploring AI's potential to support program goals may find the academy and webinar valuable opportunities to learn from peers and experts working across the adult education field.
🔗 Learn more and register for the AI Leadership Academy
🔗 Register for the informational webinar
