Acadiana School Embraces AI Instead of Banning It
Preston Castille, a native of Opelousas and former valedictorian of Plaisance High School, returned to his hometown with a mission: to support the community that shaped him. With a background as a lawyer, law professor, and member of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, Castille now leads Helix Community Schools, a network of six charter schools in Louisiana.
After two failed attempts to pass a tax in St. Landry Parish intended to increase teacher salaries and build new schools, local leaders turned to Castille for a fresh solution. He proposed partnering with the school district to establish a school centered around artificial intelligence, a technology shaping many industries.
Building a School Around AI
Together, Helix and the district created the Helix AI and Medical Academy, a 40,000-square-foot facility near Opelousas set to open in August. The academy will serve up to 600 students from kindergarten through fifth grade, focusing on teaching students how to work with AI tools and prepare for future careers involving this technology.
The school emphasizes AI’s medical applications but also integrates AI into coding and traditional subjects. Castille explained, “Children now are starting to explore and understand that artificial intelligence really is a powerful tool. How do we get kids to learn about the concept, become inspired, and develop the building blocks to create and invent new ideas? What you're seeing now is just the beginning.”
Keeping Pace with AI
The curriculum will evolve as AI technology changes. The school is also planning partnerships with local healthcare providers, such as Opelousas General Hospital, to give students real-world experience and exposure to professionals in medical and tech fields.
When Castille first pitched the idea around 2022, generative AI was just emerging. The school board found the concept novel but began to recognize AI’s potential as applications like ChatGPT became popular. While some educators worry AI could encourage cheating or dependency, Castille compares AI to calculators: tools that, once integrated wisely, enhance learning rather than hinder it.
He shared his experience from teaching law students, requiring them to use AI for a research paper. The AI provided foundational information, which students then expanded on with their own analysis. “AI is here to stay,” Castille said. “Students should learn how to use the technology and understand its limits.”
Plans for Growth and Community Impact
The Helix AI and Medical Academy plans to expand with a middle school section by the end of the year, followed by a high school. Castille hopes this initiative will attract investment to Opelousas and support development along the Interstate 49 corridor.
For educators interested in integrating AI into their curricula or professional development, exploring comprehensive AI training courses can provide valuable tools and strategies. Resources are available to help teachers and administrators equip students with skills for an AI-influenced future. For example, Complete AI Training offers up-to-date courses on AI applications suited for various education levels and roles.
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