AI with Python for
Middle School
Preparing Students for 21st Century Skills
Why Learn Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence is transforming nearly every industry, from healthcare and robotics to transportation, entertainment, and education. Learning AI at an early age helps students develop computational thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills while preparing them for future careers in technology.
Python is the world's most popular beginner-friendly programming language and is widely used in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, and Robotics. Together, AI and Python provide an excellent foundation for students interested in STEM and future technologies.
Program Overview
The AI with Python Program at iStart Valley is a 12-week online course designed specifically for middle school students who want to explore Artificial Intelligence through fun, interactive, and project-based learning.
Students learn the fundamentals of Python programming while discovering how AI systems recognize images, understand speech, and make intelligent decisions. Through hands-on coding activities and real-world projects, students build confidence, strengthen logical thinking, and develop practical technology skills in an engaging learning environment.
No prior programming experience is required, making this an ideal starting point for young learners interested in coding and Artificial Intelligence.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the program, students will be able to:
- ✔ Learn the fundamentals of Python programming.
- ✔ Understand the basics of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
- ✔ Build simple AI-powered applications.
- ✔ Explore computer vision and speech recognition.
- ✔ Use beginner-friendly AI tools and Python libraries.
- ✔ Develop creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- ✔ Complete and present a capstone project.
Who Should Enroll?
This program is ideal for:
- ✔ Middle school students interested in technology and coding.
- ✔ Beginners with little or no programming experience.
- ✔ Students who enjoy problem-solving and creativity.
- ✔ Young learners interested in AI, Robotics, and STEM.
- ✔ Students preparing for future coding and AI programs.
AI with Python Curriculum
The curriculum introduces students to Artificial Intelligence through interactive lessons, coding activities, and hands-on projects.
Students learn:
Topics include:
- • What is Artificial Intelligence?
- • How machines learn
- • Everyday AI applications
- • Responsible use of AI
Students explore:
Students learn how AI can:
- • Recognize speech
- • Classify data & identify patterns
- • Make predictions using beginner-friendly ML tools
Experience with tools like Teachable Machine, OpenCV, and Scikit-learn. Students apply everything they have learned to build and present a final AI project demonstrating their skills.
- • 12 weeks of live online instruction.
- • Hands-on Python programming experience.
- • Interactive Artificial Intelligence projects.
- • Coding exercises and guided practice.
- • Mentoring from experienced instructors.
- • Certificate of Completion.
- • Opportunity to showcase a capstone project.
Program Schedule & Fees
The program is delivered online through live interactive sessions featuring lessons, coding demonstrations, and guided project work.
Program Fees
Please refer to the registration page for the latest program fee and available payment options.
What Our Students Say
"This Is the best course ever, I would do it any time if I could again, I recommend this to every single person who loves AI!"
Sathya J Ganesan
San Jose, CA, Winner of 2nd place Global AI Contest"The AI program was very well designed. It was a great learning experience with interactive lessons and fun exercises... I had the most fun working on my capstone project."
Renisha Loonker
Sugarland, TX, Winner of Program Level AI Contest"This AI Program is one of the best courses I have ever done. With the weekly support of the teachers and the rigorous course, anyone can learn the beginnings of AI."
Pradnesh Ganesh Thoppay
Bernardsvile, NJ"This program is very helpful. You will learn many types of machine learning, and will learn about using technology such as facial recognition and more."
Ela Adhikari
Oro Valley, AZMeet the Instructors
Navya Nandi
Navya Nandi is a passionate technologist and educator with over 7 years of experience in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Python programming, and SaaS development. Her journey began in robotics, where she built intelligent systems and developed a strong foundation in problem-solving, innovation, and automation. Over the years, she has trained students from schools to colleges, designing engaging, project-based programs that make technology learning interactive and inspiring. Navya’s expertise includes Robotics, AI model development, computer vision, speech recognition, and OCR. She excels in simplifying complex technical concepts and inspiring curiosity in young innovators.
Baishakhi Mukherjee
Baishakhi Mukherjee is a technology leader with over 10 years of experience in digital transformation, customer experience, and strategic growth. She holds a degree in Computer Science from Vels University and an MBA. At global organizations like Amazon, she has led impactful technology initiatives focused on AI, Data Science, and data-driven decision-making. Baishakhi excels at aligning business strategy with innovative tech solutions to drive efficiency and growth. She is passionate about STEM education and mentors middle school students in Python and Artificial Intelligence. Her approachable teaching style helps simplify complex topics and inspires young minds to explore coding.
Dr. Anwesha Banerjee
Anwesha Banerjee, DTM, currently residing in California, is a neuroscientist, nonprofit executive, and advocate for lifelong learning whose work bridges science, education, and leadership.
She earned her PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Texas at Dallas and serves as a Medical Science Liaison at Axsome Therapeutics, partnering with healthcare professionals to translate complex scientific research into meaningful clinical insights that improve patient care. During her doctoral studies, Dr. Banerjee received the Women in Bio Behavioral Scholarship and was later selected as a Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation Fellow to conduct independent research. She has authored multiple scientific publications in autism, Fragile X syndrome, and myotonic dystrophy.
As Executive Director of iStart Valley, she leads initiatives that connect education, industry, and innovation to prepare students and professionals for careers in emerging technologies. Under her leadership, iStart Valley expanded workforce development programs and launched virtual STEM initiatives that have reached hundreds of students across North America.
A dedicated Toastmaster since 2013, Dr. Banerjee served on the Toastmasters International Board of Directors from 2022 to 2024, helping shape the organization's strategic direction. Her communication journey also includes delivering a TEDx talk in 2019, reflecting her passion for empowering others to communicate with confidence and purpose.
Check out the Videos of Presentations from Previous Participants
Frequently Asked Questions
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Affiliations
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