Board bans use of generative AI to make likenesses of students, staff without consent; full AI policy to be drafted

The Southern York County School District Board of Education on Sept. 17 approved an interim prohibition that bars staff and students from using generative artificial intelligence tools to create any likeness of a student, staff member, or district official without that person’s permission.

Why it matters: Board members said the restriction addresses an immediate misuse risk — for example, deepfakes — while the district finalizes a more complete generative AI policy through the board’s policy-review process.

The motion — to “prohibit staff and students from using generative AI tools or resources to create any likeness of any student, staff member, or district official without their permission” — passed on a voice vote after discussion at the personnel and policy committee meeting earlier in the week. Board members and administrators said the language was designed to be enforceable immediately while administrators work on an expanded AI policy.

Board members urged residents to review the draft policy when it is posted and submit suggestions. The board’s policy chair said the district will publish the policy for public comment ahead of a second reading and vote. One board member noted the new prohibition was intended to prevent “deep fakes” that could, for instance, falsely announce school closures or otherwise mislead the public.

Next steps: Board members said a fuller generative AI policy will be available for first reading at the October meeting; residents were directed to contact Sue Green for policy documents and to submit suggestions by email prior to the second reading.