Science and Technology

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Grades 5–8 · 14 Weeks · In Person · Fall 2026

About the Instructor

Chirag Menon is a sophomore in high school with a keen interest in Computer Science and AI, as well as a passion for coaching younger kids. He is Vice President of both his school's AI Club and Computer Science Club, an Inspirit AI Scholar, and an instructor at Code Ninjas. He has built several AI projects of his own, including real-time object detection for self-driving cars and an AI grade analyzer.

This course gives students a hands-on introduction to Artificial Intelligence. No background in programming or AI is needed. Students will first learn some Python basics, then explore what makes AI different from regular programming, and spend the final weeks building and presenting their own AI project. By the end of the course, every student will understand the basics of programming and how AI works.

All work is done in class with no mandatory homework. Each class typically starts with a fun game or demo, followed by a short discussion, a hands-on activity, and a one-question exit ticket.

14-Week Curriculum

Learn Python:

Week 1: Icebreakers + Quick Draw game

Week 2: Python basics: print, input, variables

Week 3: More Python: if/elif/else, comparisons

Week 4: More Python: while loops, random library

Week 5: More Python: build a simple chatbot

Discover AI:

Week 6: How programming (deterministic) and AI (not deterministic) are different

Week 7: AI basics: training, tests, shortcuts, and more

Weeks 8–9: AI build walkthrough

Build Your Project:

Weeks 10–13: Project build days

Week 14: Project Showcase Day

Classes are held in person on Saturday, from 11am to 12pm.

$800 Donation

For more information, please contact: ai.class@hindusamajmandir.org

STEAM

Passionate about creating a dynamic learning environment, Vaishali brings over 17 years of experience in technology and strategic project management to her role as a STEAM Program instructor, having worked across IT consulting, Fintech, energy, government, retail, and real estate. With dual MBA degrees in Management Information Systems and Marketing and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, she is committed to making STEAM education engaging for elementary and middle school students. Vaishali’s extensive background includes managing multi-million-dollar projects and leading digital transformation initiatives for prominent organizations, such as the New York City Office of Technology and Innovation. She has been an entrepreneur and investor in business consulting and retail initiatives. She is founder of a FinTech company called Katalyst Payments.

Certified as a PMP, Salesforce Consultant and a SAFe 5 Agilist, Vaishali integrates the latest technological advancements and agile methodologies into her teaching. Her hands-on approach to STEAM education, including robotics, coding, and engineering, fosters curiosity and problem-solving skills in students. Passionate about creating a dynamic learning environment, Vaishali also dedicates her time to community service/fundraising with organizations like Hindu Samaj Temple, CRY and St. Jude Children's Hospital. Outside the classroom, she enjoys singing, hiking, and swimming with her two daughters, she often incorporates the same spirit into her lessons to make learning both fun and interactive.

She looks forward to guiding students on her STEAM journey and helping them discover her passions and potential in these exciting fields.

For more information: steam@hindusamajmandir.org

$765 Donation including supplies. Classes are held from September to June.

Classes are held on Sundays. For class dates and timings, please click on the Schedule link on the Main Classes/Programs page.

STEAM Program Summary (2026-2027)

· September: Introduction to STEAM and Basics

· October: Engineering and Design

· November: Scientific Exploration

· December: Technology and Coding

· January: Mathematics in Action

· February: Artistic STEAM Integration

· March: Environmental STEAM