Gen AI in ABSS Guidance

As of now, ABSS staff can leverage the capabilities of the following AI tools.

Gemini

*MagicSchool AI

**Brisk Teaching

**Diffit

September 2026 Update: Approved AI Tools & Access

To provide a consistent, secure, and supported AI experience across the district, we are refining the list of approved AI platforms available to staff and students. Moving forward, access will be limited to the following tools, and all other AI tools will be disabled. This update is intended to simplify access while ensuring that AI tools are aligned with instructional needs and district guidelines.

District-Supported AI Tools

Gemini – Available to staff; high school students also have access.
NotebookLM – Available to staff; high school students also have access.
*MagicSchool – ABSS now has a district subscription for grades 6–12. Staff in grades 6–12 can access MagicSchool through Clever.
**Brisk Teaching – Available in a free/limited version with an ABSS email account.
**Diffit – Available in a free/limited version with an ABSS email account.

MagicSchool Update

Through the North Carolina Magic School Academic Support Program, ABSS was awarded funding to provide MagicSchool for grades 6–12. This subscription does not currently include elementary schools, as grades K–5 were not included in the state-funded program.

Access: Grades 6–12 staff can access MagicSchool through Clever.

A World Transformed by AI: Embracing the Future of Learning

We understand that opinions vary on our district's approach to Generative AI (Gen AI). Some might feel we're behind the curve, while others might question its place in education altogether. Regardless of these viewpoints, the reality is that Gen AI is shaping our world, and we have a responsibility to prepare our students for success in this evolving landscape.

As the world continues to rapidly change, Gen AI is undeniably a part of it. Our goal isn't to chase trends but to ensure our students are well-equipped to thrive in a future saturated with this technology. This may require us to rethink traditional teaching and learning approaches, but ultimately, our focus remains on innovation: making schools better.

It's important to remember that Gen AI excels at computing, not critical thinking. The ability to analyze information, solve problems creatively, and foster a love of learning is what truly sets educators apart. These human elements will remain essential in the age of Gen AI.

Our focus will remain on innovation, not just to keep pace, but to truly make school better for all learners. By embracing Gen AI as a tool, not a replacement, we can create a dynamic and empowering learning environment that prepares students to thrive in the world within and beyond the classroom.

While we're currently laying the groundwork for responsible Gen AI integration, behind the scenes, we've been actively preparing by evaluating resources, attending professional development opportunities, consulting with educational leaders across NC and beyond, and drafting resources and guidance. We have exciting plans to support school leaders, educators, and students in the near future. Continue to visit this site for upcoming resources and professional development opportunities!

Doc Link: Navigating the Gen AI Landscape: Knowledge, Resources, and Guidance for ABSS

Doc Link: NCDPI Generative AI Implementation Recommendations and Considerations

DRAFT: ABSS + AI LAndscape (Site Slides)

ABSS + Gen AI Landscape (1).pdf

15 Ways to Save Time with Gemini .pdf

Teacher Edition_AI in the ABSS Learning Environment (1).pdf

Student Edition_ AI in the ABSS Learning Environment .pdf

NotebookLM (avalaible to ABSS staff and students), powered by Gemini, is a personalized, source-grounded AI tool from Google that helps you organize, analyze, and create resources from your materials. It becomes an instant expert on the documents you provide.

Notebook LM | Overview of Notebook LM

NotebookLM for Educators (ABSS-2025) (3).pdf

💎 ABSS Gemini Gems:

Your AI Partner for Teaching & Learning Goals

A Shared ABSS Gemini Gem is a custom-built AI tool designed to support district-aligned teaching goals through preset, consistent instructions.

While the Gem acts as a powerful thought partner, you must always provide a final professional review to ensure all outputs are accurate and ready for classroom use.

Doc Link: ABSS Gemini Gems: Your AI Partner for Teaching & Learning Goals

These Gems are available for you to use, yet are not available to copy.

You are welcome to create your own custom Gemini Gems.

Site Link: Tips for Creating Custom Gems

💻ABSS Gemini Gems: Your AI Partner for Teaching & Learning Goals

Be on the lookout for additional in-person Gen AI-focused PD offerings in Fall 2026!

Image Below: Teachers Leading Gen AI Professional Learning Experiences at the In-Person Secondary Conference, October 2025.

Kyle Pycraft (AVS) & Stacey Mangum (SEAHS)

Jennifer Habla (HMS) & Becky Johannesen (GHS)

📚Ready to Use AI Literacy Resources & Lesson Plans

ABSS teacher leaders created these lessons to support the integration of AI literacy into our classrooms. Recognizing the demands on your time, these brief lessons (under 25 minutes) are designed to help you get started with teaching AI literacy. We hope this collection will continue to grow, but our focus will remain on simple, high-impact lessons that are easy to integrate into your existing content.