Board member advocates revising AI policy for classroom use in younger grades

The St. Helens School Board meeting on May 28, 2025, focused on the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms and budgetary concerns raised by community members.

A key discussion point was the current policy regarding the use of AI tools in education, particularly for younger students. One speaker urged the board to revise the policy, arguing that it restricts teachers' ability to utilize AI-generated content, such as simplified texts and comprehension questions. The speaker emphasized that these tools do not necessarily involve student data and should be allowed to support learning, especially for students who need additional help. They proposed that students under 13 should be able to use approved AI tools with parental consent and supervision, similar to existing online learning platforms. This approach, they argued, would protect student privacy while enhancing educational support.

Following this discussion, another participant, Rene Dowling, expressed concerns about the budget and its implications for the school community. Dowling acknowledged the worries of local residents and indicated a desire to address these budgetary issues in more detail.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing dialogue about integrating technology in education while balancing privacy and budgetary considerations. The board's next steps will likely involve reviewing the AI policy and addressing the financial concerns raised by community members.