Future teachers learn ways to incorporate AI

Linsky said the use of MagicSchool provides valuable learning opportunities for future educators to use AI in productive and ethical ways rather than as a shortcut.

"The goal is to help teachers be more productive and prevent them from burning out," Linsky said. "We train students on the best practices of AI usage. What AI spits out should never be a finished product."

Dr. Jennifer Sears, associate professor of education, said she uses MagicSchool to help her students with differentiating lesson plans based on specific student needs, coming up with questions and creating assessments.

"You have to know what to put into AI to get what you want," Sears said. "We want our students to use AI as a resource. They are able to put it on their resumes, which is really attractive."

Livi Blackstock, a May 2025 graduate with a degree in elementary and special education, is teaching fifth grade at Jefferson Academy in Jefferson, Georgia, for 2025-26. She first used MagicSchool while studying at UNG and serving as a student teacher at Cottrell Elementary School in Dahlonega, Georgia, during her senior year.

Blackstock said the AI platform is particularly helpful when trying to tailor the difficulty of lessons for her students.

"It's a great way to generate ideas," Blackstock said.

Sears is excited about the possibilities of AI leveling the playing field for students in special education. MagicSchool helps educators create smart goals for students based on information the teachers enter, without putting any names in the software.

In a time when everyone is still figuring out the best ways to use AI, Sears said her syllabus will feature assignments ranging from green light (being told to use AI) to red light (not allowed to use AI). Ultimately, Sears sees MagicSchool as a tool that should be used thoughtfully.

"We don't want our students to stop thinking," Sears said. "We want them to use AI to get started."