Navigating the AI Frontier: How Wisconsin Schools Are Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Education

Navigating the AI Frontier: How Wisconsin Schools Are Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Education

In the heart of Wisconsin, a quiet revolution is taking place in the classrooms. Monroe High School's associate principal, Josh Wilson, stands at the forefront of this change, aware that his students are already tapping into the vast potential of artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT. These tools, freely accessible online, are reshaping how students approach their schoolwork.

The Monroe School District, like many others across the state, currently lacks a formal policy on AI usage. However, Wilson and his fellow administrators are actively engaging in discussions to craft guidelines that balance educational integrity with technological advancement. "Even if we block it at school, kids will find a way to use it," Wilson acknowledges. "The real question is, do we want to ban it entirely, or teach students to use AI responsibly while still challenging themselves academically?"

This dialogue, which began informally among principals, has now expanded to include a broader coalition of teachers and administrators. The goal is to shape a comprehensive AI policy that addresses the diverse opinions within the educational community. Some educators express concern over AI potentially doing students' work for them, while others are eager to harness its capabilities to enhance learning experiences.

Wilson's journey with AI began with skepticism, mirroring the concerns of many of his colleagues. However, as he delved deeper into tools like ChatGPT, he recognized their potential to prepare students for a future where AI literacy is crucial. "AI shouldn't replace the classroom experience," Wilson asserts, "but it should challenge us to rethink what we want our students to learn and achieve."

Corralling the ‘Wild West’

Meanwhile, the Unified School District of De Pere is taking proactive steps to integrate AI into their educational framework. In December, the school board approved a pilot program for Brisk Teaching, an AI software designed to assist with writing assignments in grades 7 through 12.

Kathy Van Pay, the district’s director of elementary curriculum and instruction, explains that Brisk is already in the hands of teachers and will soon be available to students. "We aim to create a safe environment where AI is used appropriately," Van Pay says. "Brisk offers feedback and suggestions, enhancing writing without doing it for the students."

This approach, described as "freedom within fences," ensures that AI serves as a tool for learning rather than a shortcut. Teachers are provided with a curriculum that Brisk uses to guide students, ensuring that the AI's input is aligned with educational goals.

The introduction of Brisk is not without its challenges, as teachers must adapt to this new technology. However, the potential benefits are significant. By automating some aspects of feedback, Brisk can reduce teachers' workloads, allowing them to focus more on personalized instruction.

The district has communicated with parents about the new software, outlining its role in the classroom. Depending on the pilot program's success, De Pere may expand Brisk's use or explore additional AI tools. As they navigate this new landscape, other Wisconsin school districts are watching closely, eager to learn from De Pere's experiences.

Key Takeaways

1. AI Integration: Schools are exploring how to integrate AI into education responsibly.
2. Policy Development: Districts are working on policies to guide AI use in classrooms.
3. Teacher Adaptation: Educators are learning to use AI tools to enhance teaching.
4. Parental Communication: Schools are informing parents about AI's role in education.
5. Future Expansion: Successful pilot programs may lead to broader AI adoption.

As Wisconsin schools continue to explore the possibilities of AI, they are not just preparing students for the future—they are actively shaping it.