Pender County Schools holds first read of generative‑AI policy updates; staff seeks feedback

Pender County Schools staff presented a first reading of three policy updates and a new policy specifically addressing generative artificial intelligence on May 13, telling the board the documents reflect committee review and input from students and parents.

Staff described generative AI as tools that create new content rather than merely suggesting content, and they urged the board to consider student‑age appropriateness, data privacy, plagiarism and professional development for teachers. "Not all AI tools are appropriate for all… the type of tools we would make available to elementary students are not the same type of tools we would make available to secondary students," a staff presenter said.

The draft policies address (1) acceptable uses, (2) staff training and safeguards, and (3) data protection and parental notification. Staff said they had already solicited feedback from the superintendent’s student advisory committee and the parent advisory committee and invited further input before second reading.

Board members generally supported the district’s forward‑looking approach, highlighting concerns about academic integrity and student privacy. Staff emphasized the policy is a first read only and requested the board send feedback to refine the documents before a scheduled second reading.