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Modesto school board moves quickly on AI guidance; first readings of technology policies approved
Summary
After an extensive presentation on district AI tools and training, the Modesto City Schools board approved first readings of revised employee and student technology policies, directing staff to clarify language on surveillance, consent, and definitions before final adoption.
Modesto City Schools trustees approved first readings of updated technology policies on Aug. 18 after a detailed presentation from the district’s AI committee and district technology staff.
The committee—led by director of EdTech Matthew Ketchum and including teachers, administrators and a student representative—recommended adding clear guidance about district‑approved AI tools, staff and student training, and safeguards for student data. Ketchum told trustees the district has piloted and deployed educator‑controlled AI tools such as PowerBuddy and MagicSchool and highlighted Writable for immediate student writing feedback.
Trustees and speakers emphasized two priorities: protecting personally identifiable information and avoiding unmonitored, surveillance‑style AI. “Employees must be cognizant of information they are sharing with any open AI system and shall not share any confidential information or personally identifiable information of another student,” language from the administrative regulation was cited as central to the proposed protections.
Public commenters praised district PD but raised concerns about bias, job displacement and the accuracy of AI outputs. CSEA representative Fawn Peterson urged the board to ensure AI remains a tool that “does not replace jobs,” and local teachers said they appreciated hands‑on PD but want more training for classified staff and parents.
Trustees requested edits before final adoption to tighten the definition of prohibited surveillance (including consent requirements for wearable recording devices), to transfer a few clarifying rules from the administrative regulation into board policy, and to make the student-facing exhibit explicit that teacher approval is required for any AI use on assignments unless the tool is district‑approved.
The board voted unanimously to approve the first reading of BP 4040 (employee use of technology) and BP 6163.4 (student use of technology) with those directed changes; staff will return revised language for a second reading. The district said it will continue rolling out student and parent AI literacy materials and training in tandem with any policy changes.
