At Key Center School, students recently participated in a unique project that combined creativity and technology. Speech-language pathologists Aimee Rand, Katie Huynh, and Rachael Ackerman led an initiative where students used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help design fictional class pets.
The project took place during Speech time in each classroom. Students worked together to select characteristics for their ideal class pet using picture and word cards. Choices included features like color, surface texture, wings, scales, or fur. This process helped students practice expressive communication and learn descriptive vocabulary.
After making their selections, the chosen characteristics were entered into Canva’s AI image generator. The tool created digital images of each class’s imagined pet based on student input.
Aimee Rand then decided to extend the experience by turning these digital images into physical plush toys. She printed the designs onto fabric and crafted stuffed versions of each pet. Additional tactile details such as feathers or faux fur were added so that students could interact with their creations.
Each class also developed stories around their new plush companions by naming them and defining their personalities through likes, dislikes, and requests. This narrative exercise aimed to strengthen language skills and foster collaborative storytelling among students.
“Everyone enjoyed creating an image, but turning the image into pets made it an experience that everyone loved. Teachers are creating habitats, and class jobs, and including them in lessons to continue the fun,” said Aimee Rand.
Key Center School’s approach demonstrates how integrating AI with hands-on activities can support learning goals while keeping students engaged.
Fairfax County Public Schools is continuing its focus on AI in education by inviting community members to “Meeting the Moment: FCPS Forward — AI and The Future of Learning” on Monday, November 3 at West Springfield High School. The event will include an interactive expo featuring partnerships with major AI innovators as well as discussions about future directions for innovation within FCPS.
