Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Acceptable Use topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Stamford policy committee approves acceptable-use update adding AI guidance
Summary
The Stamford School District policy committee voted 4-0 to pass a revised acceptable-use policy that adds protections for student data and guidance on academic integrity related to artificial-intelligence tools; the item moves to the board consent agenda.
The Stamford School District policy committee voted 4-0 to approve a revised acceptable-use policy that adds language addressing artificial-intelligence tools and protections for confidential student information, Chair Gabby said at the committee's meeting.
District staff member Chris described the amendment as "an amendment to our acceptable use of the Internet and other computer systems policy" intended to "address not only the increased prevalence of artificial intelligence tools, but also their use among our students and staff." He said the draft pulls recommended language from the district IT team and a separate model AI policy.
The policy revisions focus on two primary elements: protecting the privacy of confidential information (particularly student data) and preserving academic integrity in the use of AI by students. "One of the main issues that we're trying to prevent is really just to ensure the privacy of any confidential or private information," Chris told the committee.
Committee member Dr. Becky Hammond raised concerns voiced by teachers about ensuring original student work. "...what are the safeguards so that students are using that... are we getting original work?" she asked, calling it "a real challenge for teachers." Amy, a district staff member, said the district is developing regulations with department leaders and teacher groups, and will endorse vetted tools for teachers to use. Amy noted districts have purchased software such as Turnitin and that regulations will address which tools teachers should use to avoid false positives and protect students from unfair accusations.
Julie Foy, a committee member, praised the policy's built-in stakeholder-review cycle and urged active engagement of teachers, students and families in reviewing AI practices. Antonia, another committee member, recommended parent training and outreach so families'including immigrant communities and English learners'understand how AI tools can be used to support learning.
Chair Gabby called the vote; four members voted in favor with one member absent, producing a 4-0 committee vote in favor. The chair said the approved policy will be placed on the regular board meeting consent agenda.
