The CS Breakout Sessions:
Session 1: AI Literacy - Foundations for Counselors
To navigate a world shaped by emerging technology, counselors need more than just user experience—they need literacy. This session breaks down exactly what AI is, how it processes information, and the risks of taking its outputs at face value. We will focus on the "Human in the Loop" concept, guiding counselors on how to critically evaluate AI-generated content. You will leave with strategies to help students and staff verify information and engage with AI ethically and effectively.
Session 2: AI in Schools- Advocacy, Ethics & The Future of Counseling
AI is here—how will you lead the conversation? This session empowers school counselors to take a leadership role in the responsible adoption of Artificial Intelligence. We will explore the influence of AI on the counselor's daily work and the wider school ecosystem, focusing on ethical guidelines, student privacy, and equity. Participants will learn how to advocate for safe school-wide policies and support students in building healthy, non-dependent relationships with technology. Join us to discover how to turn AI challenges into opportunities for advocacy and student growth.
Session 3: Computing + Passions = Careers of the Future
Computing is no longer just for "techies"—it is the foundational skillset for every modern industry. This session challenges the misconception that digital skills are optional, introducing the "Computing + Passion" model to connect students’ interests—from fashion to farming—with necessary technical competencies. We will explore how to shift advising conversations from "What do you want to be?" to "What problem do you want to solve?" using NCWIT’s career exploration tools. Counselors will leave with lesson plans and strategies to make computational thinking accessible and relevant to all students, regardless of their perceived tech affinity.
Session 4: From Classroom to Career: Opening Doors to AI, Data, and Computer Information Science
California’s job market is evolving rapidly as AI, automation, and data reshape industries statewide. Join us for this interactive session designed for counselors to explore how Folsom Lake College is preparing students for in-demand careers in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Computer Information Science. We’ll examine current workforce trends, discuss how AI is influencing skills-based hiring, and highlight tech careers students can pursue without leaving their communities. Participants will engage in discussion around foundational courses that launch these pathways, including AI Foundations, Introduction to Data Science and Statistics, and Computer Science Principles and Programming.
Ready to dive in? Click here to apply!
For questions, email: seasonsofcs@scoe.net
