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Minooka CCSD 201 outlines proactive AI rollout: Magic School pilots, teacher PD and classroom safeguards
Summary
District instructional staff said the AI task force is piloting Magic School and Gemini with teacher professional development, classroom controls, and student safeguards, aiming to finalize a playbook and launch training by August.
District instructional leaders told the Minooka CCSD 201 board they are taking a proactive approach to artificial intelligence in classrooms, piloting vetted platforms and building teacher professional development and student safeguards before a wider launch.
"We're choosing to be proactive," said the district instructional coach, Haley Bazan, describing the district’s AI task force work. Bazan told the board the task force has reviewed tools since January, held a March half-day professional development session with a Magic School representative, and is currently observing classroom pilots and collecting feedback.
Presenters emphasized safety and teacher control. One presenter described Magic School’s safeguards, noting that student interactions are redirected and that the tool explicitly reminds students "I am just a machine, but I can help you learn," when off-topic prompts occur. Teachers can assign a single tool per lesson, see student activity, lock or pause access, and receive notifications if students use inappropriate prompts. Presenters said Gemini and Magic School are "SOPA approved" and meet district safety requirements as presented.
Early classroom use produced practical results: writing-feedback tools gave students instant revision suggestions, which teachers then used as the basis for follow-up conferences. Bazan framed the district’s stance as an "80/20" model: AI can produce an initial draft or support (the 80%), but teachers must contribute the final 20% and apply professional judgment.
Board members asked about data retention and whether tools learn from student inputs. Presenters said district technology staff and vendor safeguards are in place to prevent improper learning or retention of student data and that teachers control what tools students can access. The board also discussed parent outreach and community education; presenters said PD and community-facing sessions are planned so families can understand the district’s goals and safeguards.
Next steps: the AI task force will continue classroom observations and feedback collection through the coming month, finalize an AI playbook, assemble professional development, and aim for an August rollout during staff institute days. No formal board action was taken at this meeting.
