A runaway speeding train called artificial intelligence (AI) is barreling toward America's schools at unstoppable speed – not just another passing vehicle on the track of educational technology, but a force as trailblazing as the invention of the Internet. Through the lens of one rural Iowa school district that wholeheartedly jumped aboard this AI express, this book serves as both an engineer’s manual and a passenger's guide for educators ready to harness this powerful engine of change. As districts everywhere struggle to get their bearings on this rapidly accelerating journey, this book charts the course of a pioneering team of educators who spent two years learning to navigate these new rails. From developing the track switches of AI policy to building the safety barriers of ethical guidelines, their story illustrates both the hazards and the incredible destinations possible when schools thoughtfully integrate AI into their educational landscape. Like skilled engineers, they tackled the mechanics of training teachers in the new languages of prompt writing, tool selection, AI basics, while carefully considering the impact on every passenger – student and teacher alike. Whether your school is still standing at the platform contemplating that first step, or already on board but seeking better navigation tools, this book serves as one school district’s trek through the twists and turns ahead. Drawing from real experiences from students and staff, we provide practical routes for essential conversations among stakeholders, ensuring safe, ethical, and meaningful AI usage for your educational community. The AI express shows no signs of slowing – this book will help you not just stay on track, but actively steer toward a future where artificial intelligence influences teaching and learning in important ways. Welcome to the AI Express.