EdTech firm adds K-12 leaders to AI advisory board

The Chicago-based edtech company Otus has formed an AI Advisory Board to guide its artificial intelligence development in K-12 education. The group brings together school leaders from across the country to shape how the technology is used in classrooms.

The board, launched in January 2025, now includes district administrators, school principals, teachers, and instructional technology specialists, collectively representing more than 20 districts across 11 states. The diverse makeup of the board includes representation from urban, suburban, and rural communities with varying socioeconomic statuses.

Otus co-founder and president Chris Hull stated the board was created to give educators a direct role in shaping AI tools for schools. “AI holds incredible potential for K-12 education, but it’s essential we get it right,” he said. “Educators should have a seat at the table when it comes to shaping how AI is used in schools.”

The group meets monthly to review AI initiatives and provide feedback on new tools. During a recent session, members submitted real-world AI challenges from their districts for peers to collaboratively problem-solve. One challenge involved integrating AI tools in classrooms where teachers were initially resistant due to concerns about cheating. Suggestions from members included showcasing the relevance of AI to real-world careers, introducing AI tools with teacher-approved safeguards, and strategically using AI tools that emphasize creativity and student engagement.

Otus team members coordinate the board’s activities, bringing expertise in education technology, product development, and classroom instruction to facilitate meaningful discussions and actionable outcomes. Board members also have opportunities to test new AI features, like Otus Insights, which is designed to support educators with everyday tasks and data analysis.

Caitlin Wlezien, an instructional technology coordinator in Illinois, noted the board has helped her recognize AI’s potential to support both teachers and students. “Being part of the AI Advisory Board has really opened my eyes to how AI can support both teachers and students in meaningful ways,” she said. “It’s been great connecting with other educators, sharing ideas, and finding new, creative ways to bring technology into the classroom.”

Several board members recently participated in Otus’ webinar, “Shaping the Future of AI in Education,” showing their collective commitment to furthering responsible AI use.

Otus, an award-winning edtech company, empowers educators to maximize student performance with a full K-12 assessment, data, and insights solution. Built by teachers for teachers, Otus creates efficiencies in data management, assessment, and progress monitoring to help educators focus on student success.

As AI tools evolve, the board’s feedback ensures educator input remains central to development.