Pecatonica board eyes classroom AI and forms anti‑bullying ad hoc committee; explores door sensors and multi‑jurisdiction training

The board president told the Pecatonica Area School District board that two priorities for the next six months are researching classroom and staff uses of artificial intelligence and forming an ad hoc anti‑bullying committee.

On AI, the board president asked administrators to evaluate how technology can help staff with lesson planning and support student learning, while also developing guidance for students about appropriate use and avoiding plagiarism.

On bullying, the president proposed an ad hoc committee to include students, staff, parents and community stakeholders, with a focus on identifying patterns (including cyberbullying outside school), developing interventions and exploring curriculum and peer‑support programs. The president said she would co‑chair the committee if another board member joined.

Administrator Doctor Scott said the district will make school‑safety updates a quarterly agenda item beginning in March, is collecting pricing for sensors to detect exterior doors left open and has received a request to host a multi‑jurisdiction active‑shooter training that would involve about 50 participants on June 25. Doctor Scott noted cost and scheduling impacts, including possible disruption to summer programs housed in the building.

The board did not take a final vote on policy changes but directed administrators to research options, grants, and costs (including checking for potential Wisconsin DOJ or other grant opportunities) and to return with recommendations.