Alpena Schools Team Crafts AI Guidelines for Classrooms Amid Community Debate

Alpena Public Schools Board Advances AI Policy Development

At a recent Alpena Public Schools board meeting, district staff provided an update on their efforts to establish guidelines for the appropriate use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in classrooms. Matt Poli, APS Director of Curriculum for grades six to 12, shared insights on the progress made in creating a comprehensive AI plan tailored to the district's needs.

Poli noted that a draft AI policy was initially presented last fall. Since then, a dedicated team of 13 district staff members has been collaborating to define how AI should be integrated into teaching and learning. The group includes instructional coaches, teachers from various grade levels, the ACES Academy Director, and IT leadership, supported by the Alpena-Montmorency-Alcona Educational Service District’s Instructional Technology and Data Specialist, Ashlie O’Connor.

Goals and Considerations

The team’s objectives are clear:

• Develop AI policy recommendations for the district
• Set expectations for AI use among teachers, staff, and students
• Address concerns related to AI use and plagiarism
• Support planning and implementation of AI initiatives
• Explore ethical questions and appropriate grade-level use

Poli described AI as a tool that can support the district’s strategic plan, particularly in academics and whole-child development. For instance, AI-powered chatbots could assist students with homework by explaining complex math problems in real-time.

Implementation Timeline

Since the first meeting in late May, the team has been assessing AI’s potential impact across instructional frameworks, student assessment, operations, and outreach. Upcoming meetings will focus on drafting clear use guidelines and evaluating AI platforms to determine which best fit the district’s requirements.

The rollout plan includes:

• August 2024 – February 2026: Launch an AI pilot group applying the team’s recommendations in classrooms
• March – June 2026: Expand AI implementation with professional development for staff

Platform Selection and Compliance

Board member Eric Hansen inquired about the possibility of purchasing district-wide subscriptions to AI platforms. Poli confirmed that the team is considering multiple platforms—potentially two or three—to meet diverse needs. They are currently reviewing approximately 40 AI tools, focusing on compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

Community Perspectives and Safeguards

Support for integrating AI was voiced by Board Member Sarah Costain, who emphasized the importance of protective guardrails to prevent potential harm to students.

During public comment, some community members expressed reservations. One stated, “AI is appropriate for adults, and maybe some management considerations, but if you let children use AI to teach themselves, give it up. And it’s the stupidest thing you could possibly do to our children.” Another commented that AI might be useful for administrative tasks but urged caution regarding student access.

Looking Ahead

Alpena Public Schools is taking a measured approach to AI integration, balancing innovation with responsibility. The district’s AI policy and pilot program aim to provide clear guidelines that support educators while safeguarding student interests.

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