Elkhart school board adopts student technology, AI use policy

The Elkhart Community Schools Board of Trustees on Feb. 11 adopted a revised student technology acceptable use and safety policy that adds specific direction about student use of artificial intelligence in the classroom.

The policy, presented by an administration representative, lays out expectations for use of district-provided resources and states that use of artificial intelligence is governed and supervised by certified teachers. "We're seeking your approval of this policy this evening," the administration representative said during the meeting.

Board members moved and seconded approval; President Scott called the vote and the motion carried. The administration described the revision as clarifying both general expectations for district equipment and explicit direction regarding artificial intelligence under teacher supervision.

Board discussion at the meeting was brief and centered on moving the policy from review to adoption. The administration characterized the policy as aligning oversight of district devices with classroom supervision and training for staff. The text presented to the board specifies that certified teachers will supervise AI use and that the policy governs student access to district-provided technology.

The policy will be incorporated into the district's policy manual; the administration noted it was presenting the item for approval that evening rather than preliminary review. No additional changes were recorded on the floor prior to the vote.

The board's action was part of a larger packet of policy items the administration brought forward for either approval or preliminary consideration during the Feb. 11 meeting.