Exploring the Future of AI in Education

The National Education Association states, “Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly growing technology that is actively changing how we teach, learn, work, and live.” With this in mind, BHHS Associate Principal Jessica Lupone and BHS Technology Integration Specialist Jessica Stage invited two high school and two eighth grade students to join them at the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals Catalyst Conference. This one-day event brought together students and educators to explore artificial intelligence (AI). “The idea was to collaboratively, with student voice, develop a vision and next steps for integration of AI within school districts,” explained Stage. 

Focusing on four main areas: engaging, creating, managing, and designing AI, students and administrators participated in sessions to understand AI and how to advance its use in education. Sophia Tomina (grade 11) shared, “I realized how many resources are available to students as well as teachers. Students can create podcasts, practice tests, and study guides. Teachers can use AI to create presentations, assignments, and help with grading.” Solomon Kaplan (grade 8, SHMS) added, “I attended a session about building an AI ambassador board. It stood out to me because it taught me team building skills and gave me a way to spread the word about AI.”

Participants explored the advantages and ethical implications of AI. Reflecting on the experience, Luke Atto (grade 11) said, “I gained a new perspective on how to utilize AI for good, whether it's for studying, or other purposes. Additionally, AI could be used for cheating in school or in certain professional settings. The conference really opened my eyes to the opposing sides of AI!” Connor Kyriakopoulos (grade 8, NHMS) noted, “The most memorable section was about AI and the law. This included school rules.”  Kyriakopoulos explained they were presented with various ethical scenarios which required them to examine the situations through the lens of school policy. 

Students and educators understand AI will play a huge role in their futures. Students want guidance on using these tools responsibly and effectively to enhance critical thinking. “AI should complement your thinking, not replace it,” said Kyriakopoulos. Through professional development, BHS aims to continually support staff in incorporating AI tools into their classes, including understanding how the tools are created, identifying biases and shortcomings, and ensuring digital safety and privacy. Additionally, learning the ethical use of AI is a priority for students to excel in the real world.

The team left the conference with clear priorities and next steps for thoughtful and student-centered AI integration in our educational community. BHS families can expect an opportunity to contribute to the AI discussion as the technology department prepares feedback questionnaires. Stage concluded, “Our target is that students will be AI fluent when they leave us… but still need to be the best critical thinkers, the best communicators, and the best collaborators.”