Artificial intelligence is a tool widely used in schools and learning environments to support students. However, many students use AI to complete their work instead of relying on their own abilities. Teachers discourage students from using AI in this way and encourage them to rely on their own knowledge.
AI is commonly used in schoolwork to solve problems, write essays, and cheat, rather than serving as a support tool for students who are struggling. Students only have to insert a problem or prompt into an AI program to receive a quickly generated and well-developed answer. This misuse hinders their academic development and promotes academic dishonesty.
Those who misuse AI often do not realize how it negatively affects them now and in the future. English teacher Ms. Evelyn Hidalgo said, “I fear that students using AI kind of decreases their critical thinking skills, and it doesn’t prepare them.” Students risk losing their ability to rely on their own critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and creativity if they continue to abuse AI.
Teachers are also affected by this misuse. Because of the growing reliance on AI for assignments, teachers struggle to accurately assess their students’ knowledge. When a student submits work, the teacher cannot always tell whether it was completed by the student or by AI, requiring extra time to confirm authorship. Although AI detection tools exist, they are often unreliable, making fair grading difficult. Teachers want to trust their students, but constant AI use complicates this.
Recognizing both the potential and the risks of AI, the district has taken proactive steps to guide its responsible use. ABCUSD created the Future Ready Task Force, which includes an AI Literacy Track. Members of this task force are chosen for their willingness to learn about emerging AI technology frameworks for K-12 education, collaborate on comprehensive AI literacy curriculum guidelines, revise the technology scope and sequence based on feedback from students, educators, and community partners, and brainstorm possible model AI campus programs for future deployment.
The Task Force focuses on two key tracks: AI Literacy and Digital Wellbeing, spearheading the district’s commitment to preparing students for an AI-integrated future while fostering healthy digital citizenship. The initiative aims to develop a comprehensive K-12 AI literacy and digital scope and sequence, culminating in an “AI Responsible and Ready” certification for students upon graduation. Its philosophy prioritizes human-centered, student-focused learning, moving beyond restrictive device management and instead teaching students to use AI in ways that spark curiosity, build community, and solve problems.
AI should not be misused as a tool that does all the work for students. Instead, it should serve as a stepping stone to assist learning, similar to using spell-check and grammar-check tools to improve writing. Misusing AI can have long-term consequences, and teachers strongly disapprove of abusing its capabilities.
