Ethics

Leafville High School Policies on AI 

I. Introduction

Purpose: The integration of generative
AI into education presents both opportunities and challenges. This policy
ensures responsible AI use that enhances learning while maintaining academic
integrity, protecting student privacy, and addressing biases. It aims to equip
students with future-ready skills while safeguarding ethical standards. 

Scope: This policy applies to all students, teachers,
and staff at Leafville High School. It outlines the appropriate use of AI
tools in classrooms, homework, research projects, correspondence, and extracurricular
activities.

II. Definitions

Generative AI: Refers to artificial intelligence
technologies that generate text, images, audio, or other content based on user
input. Examples include ChatGPT, NotebookLM, and similar AI-powered tools. 

Key Terms:

  • Academic
    Integrity:     Upholding honesty in student work and ensuring AI-generated
    content is properly acknowledged.
  • Bias:
    The potential for AI-generated content to reflect societal prejudices or
    misinformation.
  • FERPA
    (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act):     A federal law that
    protects student education records and personal information from
    unauthorized disclosure.

III. Ethical Principles

Integrity and Honesty: Students must clearly indicate
when AI tools have been used in assignments and research. AI-generated content
cannot replace original student work unless explicitly permitted.

Equity and Accessibility: AI tools must be available
equitably to all students, regardless of socioeconomic status. Training should be
provided to ensure fair access and usage. All students should be held to the same standards of integrity and honesty. 

Privacy and Security: Student and staff data privacy
must be protected. AI tools used in school settings must comply with FERPA
regulations, and no personally identifiable student data should be input into
AI systems.

IV. Guidelines for Use

Educational Use Cases:

  • AI may be used as a research assistant, tutor, or brainstorming tool.
  • AI-generated content can supplement, but not replace, student learning and critical
    thinking.
  • Teachers may use AI tools to personalize learning experiences.

Prohibited Uses:

  • Submitting AI-generated work as original student work without disclosure.
  • Using AI tools to cheat on exams, plagiarize, or generate inappropriate content.
  • Inputting private student data into AI platforms.

Collaboration and Sharing: Students and teachers
should acknowledge AI-assisted work and share responsibly. AI-generated work
should not be shared in ways that misrepresent authorship.

V. Responsibilities

Students:

  • Use AI responsibly and ethically.
  • Properly cite AI-generated content.
  • Engage with AI tools to enhance learning, not bypass it.

Teachers and Staff:

  • Guide students in ethical AI use.
  • Monitor AI-assisted assignments for academic integrity.
  • Provide instruction on how to critically assess AI-generated content.

Administration:

  • Ensure AI tools comply with privacy laws.
  • Provide resources and training on AI use.
  • Regularly review and update AI policies as technology evolves.

VI. Monitoring and Compliance

Monitoring Use: AI usage will be monitored through classroom oversight and academic reviews. Teachers may use
AI-detection tools, but acknowledge that no detection method is fully accurate.

Handling Violations: Violations will be addressed
through existing academic integrity policies. Consequences may range from
warnings to academic penalties, depending on severity and intent.

VII. Support and Resources

Training and Education: Given Leafville’s rural
setting and limited resources, the school will:

  • Integrate AI literacy into curricula.
  • Provide staff with professional development on AI in education.
  • Offer peer-led workshops for students on ethical AI use.

Technical Support: AI-related questions and
troubleshooting assistance will be available through the school’s IT department
and designated teacher mentors.

VIII. Review and Update

Policy Review Schedule: This policy will be reviewed
annually to ensure alignment with technological advancements and educational
needs.

Feedback Mechanism: Students, parents, and staff can
submit feedback through designated school forums and advisory meetings to
refine AI policies as needed.

Stakeholder Listening and Education Plan

Listening Sessions:

  • Conduct group meetings with parents, teachers, and students to discuss AI
    concerns and suggestions.
  • Engage with local businesses, colleges, and tech professionals to understand
    evolving AI trends.

Educational Outreach:

  • Provide informational materials for parents on AI’s role in education.
  • Develop online resources explaining AI literacy and ethical use.
  • Organize student-led discussions and debates on AI ethics to encourage critical
    thinking.

This policy ensures a balanced approach to AI use at
Leafville High School, fostering responsible technology integration while
prioritizing privacy, equity, and academic integrity.

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