Embracing AI: Pender County schools discuss policy changes to integrate AI in the classrooms

In their approach, they are set to revise four policies already established and add another to the list.

PENDER COUNTY (WWAY) –Artificial intelligence is woven into nearly every aspect of our daily lives, enhancing the tools and technologies we rely on. Rather than shying away from this transformative force, the Pender County School District is embracing it. In their approach, they are set to revise four policies already established and add another to the list.

These four policies include:
4310: Integrity and Civility – Includes updated language emphasizing academic honesty and addressing the ethical use of AI.
3220: Technology in the Education Program – Clarifies how generative AI can be integrated into instructional practices.
3225 / 4312 / 7320: Technology Responsible Use – Expands the acceptable use policies outlining behaviors, expectations, and responsibilities related to AI use.

Superintendent Brad Breedlove acknowledges the negative connotations associated with AI. However, the district is considering using “Generative AI” to enhance student learning opportunities.

For students, AI’s advantages include content creation, language translations, and interactive materials, such as quiz design and simulations, which are expected to improve student performance.

It’s important to note that AI is not tolerated if used for plagiarism, bullying, or privacy violations.

“There are times we don’t want students to use it because when you talk about cheating, we want it to be authentic to the student– it’s about critical thinking. Right? But, also taking the educational process of what resources are out there? What credible resources are out there? How do I know it’s credible? And How do I make it my own,” Breedlove explained.

In April of 2024, data from the online plagiarism detector called “Turnitin” revealed that out of 200 million papers reviewed for AI writing detection, over 6 million were found to be at least 80 percent AI-generated.

Breedlove mentioned that these policies are still in the development phase and expects to have revised policies available in the near future.