7:15The workshop commenced with a presentation by the Chief Academic Officer, who introduced the district’s AI Governance Team, established in July 2024. This team is tasked with developing local AI protocols, drawing inspiration from diverse district approaches. The presentation underscored AI’s pervasive influence, from personal assistants to predictive text features, and detailed the district’s “go slow to go fast” strategy. This approach prioritizes deep understanding and careful implementation to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. The presentation highlighted collaborations with organizations like Microsoft and participation in AI-focused conferences.

25:46A significant portion of the meeting focused on the AI software Amira, designed to support struggling second and third graders. The board discussed the newly adopted Florida Computer Science standards, effective for the 2025-2026 school year, which incorporate AI components. A representative from the Career and Technical Education (C.T.E.) department elaborated on the development of an AI course framework, prompted by a state initiative to prepare students for AI-related careers. Jefferson High School had piloted AI courses, with plans to expand offerings to other schools. The framework covers machine learning, human-AI interaction, and societal impacts of AI.

43:04Board members highlighted the importance of clear guidelines and policies to address these issues. Notably, a college professor’s approach to AI in coursework was shared, where students could use AI tools but were required to annotate their sources and prompts, maintaining high standards for submissions.

Digital citizenship policies were another focal point, with a member stressing the need for a clear framework to guide student behavior online. Questions arose about whether parents were adequately informed about digital citizenship expectations, prompting calls for improved communication and documentation processes.

1:14:43The board also debated the necessity of a standalone AI policy, emphasizing clarity and accessibility for both students and educators. Members highlighted the need for adaptive policies informed by community feedback and the evolving educational landscape.

25:46Teacher training and support were critical discussion points, with calls for a phased professional learning plan to equip teachers with the skills to integrate AI effectively. This plan would begin with basic AI concepts, progressing to specialized training on lesson planning and data analysis. Board members stressed the importance of involving experienced teachers in the training process to maximize the effectiveness of AI integration.

1:14:43The meeting concluded with a commitment to equitable access to AI resources, particularly for students who face language barriers. The board acknowledged the technology’s potential as an equalizer, providing additional support for students whose parents may be unavailable due to work commitments. The board plans to organize a future workshop focused on refining policies and further exploring AI’s implications within the district’s curriculum.