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Local educator urges scrutiny of AI scoring after reported MCAS grading errors; district schedules community forums
Summary
A Malden resident questioned the growing use of AI in scoring statewide MCAS essays and urged the district to examine potential bias; the School Committee's technology subcommittee plans community forums on AI in learning.
At the Oct. 6 meeting, Malden resident and educator Charlene Bridal urged the School Committee to probe the use of artificial intelligence in scoring Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) essays, citing news reports of mis-scored responses in other districts.
"Before DESE decided to have 90% of essays graded by an AI score without human oversight, was there any independent assessment that the AI score works as well as humans?" Bridal asked, adding concerns about bias against students with disabilities and English learners. She said the district should demand scientific evidence before relying on AI-driven automation for consequential decisions.
Bridal's comments followed a summary from the superintendent and technology subcommittee members about a Sept. 29 technology subcommittee meeting and plans to develop local guidance on AI applications in Malden Public Schools. Technology Subcommittee Chair Gray said the district will host multiple community forums to invite parents, students and stakeholders to weigh in and that DESE will provide high-level guidance as it is released.
The district scheduled two community forums on AI and learning for Oct. 21 and Oct. 27; Gray encouraged committee members and the public to participate. The district is also testing a range of teaching platforms, some of which include AI features, and plans to create local expectations while awaiting statewide guidance.
The School Committee did not vote on policy during the Oct. 6 meeting but the subcommittee committed to community engagement and to bringing findings back to the full committee.
