Artificial Intelligence Policy
The Board recognizes the need to prepare staff and students for an increasingly technological future. Thus, the Board is committed to providing staff and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate emerging technological innovations effectively and appropriately, including generative artificial intelligence (AI).
For purposes of this policy, “AI tool” is defined as AI applications, algorithms or systems that make use of AI or machine learning to generate outputs based on human inputs, with an emphasis on generative AI.
Data Privacy, Management, and Security
The District is committed to protecting the privacy and security of all student and staff data. The adoption and implementation of any AI tool must adhere to existing data privacy and security policies that include, but are not limited to, Personally Identifiable Information (PII), FERPA, and any other relevant state of Ohio and federal laws. AI tools should only access, store, or process data that is necessary, and must do so in a secure, transparent, and ethical manner. AI tools and systems must be vetted to ensure they meet rigorous standards for data encryption, access control, and responsible data use. Users must also follow the terms of service, including appropriate age limits.
Procurement and Evaluation of AI-Embedded Tools
To accomplish the District’s mission and comply with the law, the District must collect, create and store confidential and critical information. The District must maintain and protect this data for efficient District operations, compliance with laws mandating confidentiality, and maintaining the trust of the District’s stakeholders. Individuals with access to District data are required to follow State and Federal law, District policies and procedures created to protect the information.
The adoption of AI-enabled tools should be conducted in accordance with existing procurement policies and in alignment to the District’s core values, goals, and priorities. Selection procedures must ensure that any AI tool must adhere to data privacy and security policies. Potential vendors are required to sign the Ohio Data Privacy Agreement or similar agreement that is in compliance with Ohio law. All third-party vendors providing AI tools must comply with District standards, state and federal law for data protection, ethical use, and accessibility.
Evaluation of AI tools must also address alignment to instructional and operational goals, accessibility, and cost.
Ethical Use of AI
The safe and responsible use of AI tools should empower students, educators, and communities through AI-directed, AI-support, and AI-enhanced opportunities. AI tools are, therefore, meant to support learning and teaching, and should not be a substitute for student effort or the role of the educator. Accordingly, users should critically analyze AI output, respect safeguards and rules, and be transparent about its use.
Acceptable Use
The District recognizes that responsible and appropriate uses of AI by students and educators will vary depending on the context, including but not limited to grade level, subject, and/or the nature of the classroom activity or assignment. Existing policy prohibits use inconsistent with expectations for staff and student conduct, including discrimination, harassment, hazing, bullying, and academic integrity.
Expectations for acceptable student uses should be clearly articulated by educators in alignment with provided guidelines and aligned with the District’s instructional priorities. This includes, but is not limited to, requiring transparency and accountability regarding the use of AI and AI tools.
AI tools approved for use should be clearly communicated to students and staff. All district approved AI tools, expectations, and permissive use will be continually reviewed and updated as part of the AI Use Guidelines for Teachers and Students.
Students and staff with concerns regarding inappropriate use that violates District policies and/or applicable state or federal laws should contact the Superintendent or appropriate designated staff member.
Review of AI Use
The District will regularly review its use of AI tools and recommend updates to the Board that address safety, privacy, staff and student needs and other relevant areas. Recommendations to the Board will also address relevant updates to State and Federal laws and guidance concerning regulation of AI.
