Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a regular part of everyday life, from how we search for information to how we create, learn, and solve problems. In our schools, AI tools can be powerful supports for student learning when used appropriately.

As with any tool, the key is understanding when and how to use it responsibly.

Why AI Matters in Education

AI is not going away. In fact, it’s becoming an important part of college, careers, and the modern workplace. Our goal as a district is not to avoid AI, but to help students learn how to use it:

• Thoughtfully
• Ethically
• Effectively

When used well, AI can enhance learning, deepen understanding, and support student growth.

Understanding Appropriate Use

To help guide students, we think about AI use in three categories: Prohibited Uses, Use with Caution, and Safe and Encouraged Uses.

Prohibited Uses

Some uses of AI violate academic integrity expectations and are not allowed.

These include:

• Using AI to complete an entire assignment or essay
• Using AI to cheat on quizzes, tests, or exams
• Submitting AI-generated work as your own without permission

These uses prevent real learning and do not reflect a student’s own thinking.

Use with Caution

AI can be helpful in these situations, but students should think critically about how they use it.

Examples include:

• Getting feedback on writing drafts
• Improving clarity, organization, or grammar
• Asking for help refining ideas or arguments

In these cases, AI should act as a support tool, not a replacement for thinking. Students are still responsible for understanding and evaluating the content.

Safe and Encouraged Uses

There are many ways AI can support learning in positive and appropriate ways.

These include:

• Brainstorming ideas for projects
• Creating outlines to organize thoughts
• Generating research questions or search terms
• Checking grammar and spelling
• Exploring creative projects like images or presentations

When used this way, AI helps students become more efficient and confident learners.

A Simple Guiding Question

Before using AI, students should ask themselves:

“Does this reflect my own thinking and understanding?” If the answer is no, it’s probably not appropriate.

Our Commitment as a District

We are committed to:

• Teaching students how to use AI responsibly
• Supporting staff with clear expectations and guidance
• Encouraging innovation while maintaining academic integrity

AI is a tool and like any tool, its value depends on how it’s used. AI can help along the way, but it should never replace the most important part of learning: the student’s own thinking.