School District Unveils New AI Policies for Staff and Student Usage Guidelines

The Fayetteville School District is taking significant steps to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its educational framework, as discussed during the FPS Regular Board Meeting on July 24, 2025. The board proposed two new policies aimed at guiding the use of AI within the district, reflecting both state requirements and the district's proactive approach to technology in education.

The first policy, designated as 2.01, serves as a comprehensive administrative guideline for AI use across the district. It outlines the necessary components mandated by recent state legislation, specifically Act 848, which requires school districts to adopt an AI policy. This policy prohibits certain uses of AI, such as political activities and illegal behavior, and emphasizes that final decisions must be made by humans rather than relying solely on AI tools. It also includes training requirements for district employees to ensure they understand the appropriate use of AI in their roles.

The second policy, 5.2, focuses specifically on student use of AI. While it references the broader administrative policy, it is tailored to instruct students on how to appropriately utilize AI tools in alignment with the district's code of conduct. Both policies mandate that any AI tools used in classrooms must receive prior approval from the district, ensuring a controlled and safe implementation of technology in educational settings.

The board's discussions highlighted the importance of these policies in fostering a responsible approach to AI, with an emphasis on training and oversight. The district plans to involve a committee in the ongoing development and refinement of the AI plan, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective in guiding both staff and students.

In summary, the Fayetteville School District is not only complying with state mandates but is also setting a precedent for responsible AI use in education. These policies aim to enhance learning while safeguarding against potential misuse, reflecting a commitment to both innovation and student welfare in the digital age.