Head of Upper School Alfie Hobbs Named 2026–27 CSTA Responsible AI Fellow

Pacific Ridge School is proud to announce that Head of Upper School Alfie Hobbs has been selected as a 2026–27 Responsible AI Fellow by the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA).

The highly selective fellowship brings together 15 PreK–12 educators from across the country who are leading conversations around ethical, inclusive, and transformative approaches to artificial intelligence in education. Through collaborative learning, peer mentorship, and professional development with leading experts in the field, fellows will work to advance responsible AI practices and help shape the future of AI education in schools nationwide.

As a member of the 2026 cohort, Hobbs will participate in a six-month leadership experience that includes in-person summits, virtual learning sessions, and the development of projects focused on responsible AI innovation in education. Fellows also receive support from CSTA staff and partners, along with recognition at the CSTA Annual Conference and across the organization’s national communications channels.

At Pacific Ridge, Hobbs has been a thoughtful leader in exploring how emerging technologies can enhance learning while remaining grounded in ethics, critical thinking, and student-centered education. His selection as a Responsible AI Fellow reflects both his leadership in educational innovation and Pacific Ridge’s broader commitment to preparing students to engage thoughtfully with the rapidly evolving world around them.

Alfie Hobbs has been with Pacific Ridge since 2018. For more than fifteen years, he worked in the corporate world as a computer programmer, designer, and manager at IBM and BB&T. For three years, he taught computer science, coached basketball and soccer, and was involved in equity work at Ravenscroft, capping his successful time there by receiving the Qubain Award for Teaching Excellence in 2018. He received his B.S. in Computer Science from Hampton University, an M.B.A. from North Carolina Central University, and an Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Educational Technology from the University of Florida.

The Computer Science Teachers Association Responsible AI Fellowship was created to address the growing need for educators who can navigate the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in schools while promoting responsible and equitable implementation practices.

More information about the fellowship can be found at CSTA Responsible AI Fellowship.