Training Tomorrow’s Innovators

MMS Middle School Students Are Using AI to Get Ahead

At Milwaukee Montessori School, we recognize the ongoing concerns—shared by parents and other educators—about the misuse of artificial intelligence in academic settings. Yes, some students, even here, have experimented with using AI to cut corners: asking it to write parts of papers, translate assignments, or solve tasks without real understanding. But rather than ban these tools out of fear, we take a more intelligent path by teaching students how to use AI responsibly, ethically, and powerfully.



Because here's the truth: we’d rather they make mistakes now, in a learning-centered environment, where a misstep means a month without tech privileges—not later, in high school or college, where the consequences could include academic probation, failing grades, or even expulsion. At MMS, we see these early misuses not as failures, but as teachable moments.

Real-World Applications Start Here

Our middle school students don’t just talk about the future—they build it. Some of the ways they use AI include:

• Strategic Planning: Students begin projects by using AI to generate structured outlines—whether for persuasive essays or for designing a fully functional delivery service website for pastries. They use AI to research, prototype, and even generate code, which they then review, debug, and customize for functionality.
  
  
• Full-Stack Web Development: Students use AI to assist with coding websites—from front-end design to back-end logic—learning to verify AI-generated code and tailor it for real-world usability.
  
  
• Game Development in Unity (C#): In our advanced groups, students are developing original games using Unity, writing scripts in C#, designing and rigging 3D characters, and building immersive environments. AI becomes their partner in troubleshooting code, refining gameplay mechanics, and even exploring advanced rigging techniques.
  
  
• Custom GPTs & Prompt Engineering: Students are learning to design their own GPTs (Generative Pre-trained Transformers) to assist with specific components of their projects. They’re mastering prompt engineering—a critical skill in the evolving tech landscape—learning how to ask the right questions, iterate based on feedback, and fine-tune AI performance.



• Machine Learning & Image Generation: With tools like Teachable Machine and Runway ML, our students explore the fundamentals of machine learning, creating models that classify images or generate media—essential skills in both creative and technical domains.