Trustees debate opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence in Richland II schools

The Richland School District Two board discussed a draft approach to artificial intelligence use in schools and for staff during the June 24 work session, with trustees sharing examples of everyday AI use, noting potential instructional benefits and flagging privacy and accuracy risks.

Trustee Tamika Washington opened the discussion and asked trustees to share how they use AI. Members described using AI for email summaries, spreadsheets, creating social‑media calendars, lesson‑plan scaffolding and student study guides. Trustee Joe Trapp noted limits of AI in hands‑on trades, saying AI "cannot weld or turn wrenches," while others said AI can save teachers hours by summarizing material and helping prepare lesson outlines.

Concerns centered on accuracy and data privacy. Trustees emphasized the need for human review of AI outputs, safeguarding student-identifying information, and consistent platform use across schools. Several trustees suggested guardrails: clear training, definitions of what may be uploaded, a requirement that students submit the prompts or transcript of AI interaction with assignments, and community engagement (workshops) to gather input.

Dr. Moore and administration agreed to continue drafting a policy and suggested developing a board position statement to communicate the district’s approach to families and staff. Trustees asked that the draft include practical guidance for employees and students and recommended piloting training and templates for classroom use.

No vote was taken; the discussion will inform a policy draft returned to the board for review.