Wealthy families enroll children in AI-powered schools like Forge Prep and Alpha School

A recent report highlights a growing divide in attitudes toward artificial intelligence across the United States. While a majority of Americans remain skeptical of AI’s reliability—citing examples such as the technology’s inability to reliably identify safe pizza toppings or produce appealing music—affluent families are increasingly turning to AI-driven educational platforms. Companies such as Forge Prep and Alpha School are offering premium programs that charge tens of thousands of dollars per student, positioning children as beta testers for AI tutors and participants in interactive, project‑based workshops. These services are marketed as alternatives to traditional schooling, emphasizing personalized, technology‑focused curricula.

The model has found particular traction in Silicon Valley, where tech‑industry leaders are early adopters. San Francisco venture capitalist Shaun Johnson told the Wall Street Journal that he intends to enroll his children in one of these AI‑centric schools, reflecting a broader trend among the region’s wealthy elite. The shift underscores a socioeconomic split in education, with high‑income households investing heavily in AI‑enhanced learning while broader public sentiment remains wary of the technology’s capabilities and trustworthiness. The story was originally reported by The Verge.