West Virginia State Superintendent Testifies Before Congressional Subcommittee

Washington, D.C. (February 24, 2026) — West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools and Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) Board Member Michele L. Blatt today testified before the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce’s Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education. During the Building an AI-Ready America: Teaching in the AI Age hearing, Blatt shared the state’s approach to addressing how education systems guide the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in ways that protect students, preserve the central role of educators and align with long educational goals.  

“I appreciate the Subcommittee’s interest in a fact-finding conversation about how AI is being used across schools: what is working, where hurdles remain, how teachers and parents are responding, and what supports are needed,” Blatt said in her in written testimony.  

With the use of guidance, stakeholder engagement and adaptive implementation, Blatt presented strategies West Virginia is using to address AI in schools and classrooms.  

“The West Virginia Department of Education works closely with our districts and communities to support high-quality instruction and student learning in the age of AI,” said Blatt. “The technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and we meet this challenge with our efforts to implement best practices and effective guidance and processes. This ensures that even with the changing landscape, we have a systematic approach to strengthen instruction, enhance student learning and protect student well-being.” 

Visit the Building an AI-Ready America: Teaching in the AI Age hearing webpage to read Blatt’s testimony.