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The Google EDU Update

📨 Google Admin Weekly: Help your teachers learn AI

Published about 19 hours ago • 2 min read • Google Admin Weekly

Hello Reader,

I feel bad that I’ve spent a lot of time talking about negative and scary uses for AI, but not much time discussing the cool, positive ways that teachers can use tools like Gemini and Gemini Notebook in the classroom.

I want to take a short break from heavy, technical topics to introduce you to a cool (and free) professional learning resource for teachers called the Google AI Educator Series.

Introducing the Google AI Educator Series

The Google AI Educator Series (GES) is a collection of short courses (10-15 minutes) and micro-credentials developed by Google for Education. It focuses on practical applications of Gemini, prompt crafting, and workflow integration for teachers.

There are actually two tracks available - one for K-12 educators and one for higher Ed faculty. It's a great program with easy to follow, practical instruction.

The part that has teachers 🐝 buzzing is the opportunity to earn an official badge from Google at the end of each module. There are 30+ modules with new content being added each month.

Join me for the Fall Chromebook Academy!

  • Date: Nov. 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 2026 (Tues. / Thurs.)
  • Location: LIVE via Google Meet (sessions are recorded)
  • Time: 1-2:30 pm EST
  • Cost: $299/person

FREE AI Webinar for Teachers

This Wednesday (tomorrow), I’m hosting the first of two virtual badge sessions for teachers. I’d like to invite your teachers to join me! This session is being funded by Google, which means I can make it 100% free for educators!

✨ Session 1: Intro to Gemini:

🌟 Session 2: Advanced Gemini

Build Internal AI Capacity

You don't need to build an in-house AI professional development course from scratch. Here are three quick ways to help your district build AI literacy this week:

  1. Pass this along to your team: Forward this link (chrm.tech/ges-webinar) to your instructional coaches, building tech leads, or department heads.
  2. Hop in and join me: It’s a great way to see what features teachers are most excited about and what questions they are asking about AI in the classroom.
  3. Build your own capacity: Have you explored how Gemini and Gemini Notebook can help you? The more you use it, the more you can help others!

Upcoming Events for Google Admins

Want to host a Google Admin workshop in your area? Get in touch!

Hope to see some of your teachers tomorrow!

John R. Sowash

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John Sowash is a former teacher and an "accidental" Google Administrator. For more than a decade John has been helping schools use technology in meaningful ways. John lives in Michigan with his wife and five kids.

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The Google EDU Update

by John Sowash

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