Hillsborough schools outline phased plan for classroom AI; staff to draft standalone policy for March workshop

Hillsborough County Public Schools staff outlined a districtwide, phased approach to using artificial intelligence in classrooms and professional work on Jan. 21, and board members directed staff to present a draft standalone AI policy at a March 4 board workshop.

The presentation, led by Colleen Fawcett, chief academic officer and leader of the district's AI governance team, explained the district's "go slow to go fast" strategy for AI implementation, described early pilots and coursework, and detailed professional‑learning phases for teachers and administrators.

The plan centers on six guiding principles Fawcett said were developed after reviewing federal and state guidance and district stakeholder feedback: human‑centric use, equitable access, ethical use (including transparency and academic integrity), innovation and collaboration, professional learning, and future‑ready skills. "By being delivered in learning and implementation, we can avoid pitfalls and maximize the benefits of AI for students and staff," Fawcett said.

Presenters named products already in limited use and…