2 Capital Region schools begin implementing AI tools, policies

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — As generative artificial intelligence becomes more present in daily life, schools around the Capital Region are beginning to make adjustments to prepare students and staff. Earlier this month, the Guilderland Central School District launched a new AI learning tool, while the Greater Amsterdam School District adopted a new AI policy.

Guilderland Central School District

At Guilderland schools, students and teachers will begin using a software called MagicSchool AI. According to the district, the tool will help teachers “create personalized and interactive learning experiences that make lessons more engaging and effective” and safely teach students about AI.

Before using MagicSchool AI, students will be required to complete a lesson on AI ethics. The district also said that teachers will be able to determine how and when the tool is used in their individual classrooms as well as supervise student usage.

In addition to the new platform, the Guilderland Central School District has released its guidelines on AI use in school, including encouraging students to question and verify information they get from AI, promoting respectful and responsible behavior when using AI, and teaching students to use AI to complement their learning rather than do the work for them. School officials also ask parents to speak with their children about AI ethics, encourage critical thinking and stay informed about current AI capabilities.

You can read the district’s full plan on the Guilderland Central School District website.

Greater Amsterdam Central School District

Meanwhile, the Greater Amsterdam School District has implemented a new artificial intelligence policy for students, staff and other users. In it, the district establishes guidelines on AI usage in a reported effort to protect academic integrity, safeguard privacy and foster essential skills amid a shifting job market and future.

For students:

• AI use must have explicit and transparent consent from the staff member overseeing the assignment
• Unauthorized AI use is a violation of the academic honesty policy and may result in disciplinary action
• All students must cite any content borrowed or generated with AI to avoid plagiarism

For staff and all users:

• AI can be used to support curriculum development, student assessment and administrative efficiency, but it cannot replace teacher expertise
• All AI use must comply with data protection laws, including FERPA and Education Law Section 2-d, to ensure privacy and security
• Staff are responsible for teaching students to be digitally literate and aware of AI’s ethical implications, ensuring AI use is fair and unbiased

You can read the full district’s full AI policy and position on the Greater Amsterdam School District website.