During the Ross Local School Board meeting on December 19, 2024, students from Ross Middle School's Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) presented a compelling case for the development of a policy regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The eighth-grade members, including Josie Albus, emphasized the importance of addressing AI's role in learning environments, highlighting both its potential benefits and challenges.

The students articulated that while AI can enhance educational experiences by simulating learning and problem-solving, it also raises concerns about academic integrity. They pointed out that tools like calculators and spell checkers are often accepted in educational settings, yet the use of AI for tasks such as writing essays could be perceived as cheating. This duality prompted them to advocate for clear guidelines that would allow the use of AI for research while discouraging over-reliance on it.

The presentation included a reference to a recent legal case in Massachusetts, where a student faced disciplinary action for using AI inappropriately for a school assignment. This incident underscored the need for a structured policy that could help prevent similar situations in Ross Local Schools. The students noted that 22 states have already established official guidelines regarding AI in K-12 education, and they provided the school board with a toolkit developed by Ohio's Department of Education to assist in policy formulation.

In response to the students' presentation, board members engaged in a discussion about the implications of AI in education. Concerns were raised about the reliability of AI-generated information and the importance of teaching students to critically evaluate sources. Board members acknowledged the inevitability of AI's presence in both education and the workforce, emphasizing the need to cultivate skills that would enable students to use AI responsibly.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of developing a policy that addresses AI's role in learning, ensuring that both staff and students understand its appropriate use. The board plans to review the toolkit provided by the students and explore the possibility of implementing a policy similar to that of neighboring districts.

This meeting highlighted a significant step towards integrating modern technology into educational practices while maintaining academic integrity. As the Ross Local School District moves forward, the development of an AI policy will be crucial in preparing students for a future where technology plays an increasingly central role in both education and career landscapes.