Answer: A.I.
Clues: “Fake” and “Brain”
As Wisconsin families prepare for the annual back-to-school scramble, a hidden cost is catching many parents off guard: artificial intelligence. A recent survey from Digital Promise found that 93% of 31 school districts polled are using AI tools in their classroom. 60% of teachers stated that they had integrated AI into their teaching plans.
But while schools are quick to implement these tools, they’re often slower to provide support for the devices or internet speeds they require. According to a National Retail Federation (NRF) survey, K-12 families in 2025 are projected to spend an average of $858.07 on back-to-school items, with a growing portion going toward tech and electronics. And that doesn’t account for the ongoing costs – like upgrading to faster home internet, paying for cloud storage, or purchasing app subscriptions that complement school platforms.
To help families get ahead of these surprise costs, the MarketBeat team recommends the following:
1. Start with the school.
2. Explore subsidy programs.
3. Buy refurbished when possible.
4. Check for school-sponsored software.
5. Don’t forget cybersecurity.
NRF | Back-to-School Season Begins Early for Majority of Shoppers