AI tools are becoming more common in schools and can be valuable for learning. However, it’s important to understand the difference between using AI responsibly and misusing it.
Your teachers may set specific expectations for how and when AI can be used. If those expectations are not clearly posted in Google Classroom or explained in class, it is your responsibility to ask for clarification rather than make assumptions. Following clear guidelines helps ensure fairness and supports your success.
Think of AI like a classmate: if it were cheating with a person, it’s also cheating with AI.
For example, if your friend wrote your whole paper and you turned it in with your name on it, that’s cheating. The same goes if AI writes the whole thing for you. But if you wrote the paper yourself and your friend read it, asked questions, and gave ideas to make it stronger - that’s more like getting feedback. Using AI in that way (to brainstorm, ask questions, or improve your own work) is appropriate with teacher permission.
The golden rule: AI should support your learning, not replace it. And when in doubt, always check your teacher’s rules first.
Your personal information—and the information of your classmates and teachers—must be protected. A good rule to follow is: never share private or confidential information with AI tools. Even if a tool has security protections, it is safest to keep sensitive information out of it.
Why does this matter? Once information is entered, you may not be able to control how it is used or where it goes. Sharing private details can put you and others at risk. Practicing safe digital habits helps protect your privacy and keeps everyone safe.
Examples of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) students should never share:
Name
Home address or neighborhood details
Phone number
Personal or school email address
Student ID number or login credentials (usernames/passwords)
Date of birth
Social Security number
Names of family members or guardians
School name, class schedule, or teacher names (when combined with other identifying details)
Photos of yourself or others
Location information (current location, where you live, or places you regularly visit)
AI can be a helpful tool for learning when it’s used the right way. At school, you are expected to use district-approved tools, such as MagicSchool AI, Padlet, and Canva, which are designed to be safe and appropriate for student use.
Do not use AI chatbots or large language models (LLMs) unless your teacher gives you permission.
Using approved tools and following these guidelines helps keep your information safe and ensures you are using AI in a responsible and appropriate way.
AI is a helpful tool, but it is important to understand its limits. AI is not a replacement for real people or professional support.
AI is not:
A counselor or therapist – It cannot provide real mental health support or help with serious personal issues
A friend or relationship – AI does not have feelings, emotions, or personal connections
A human teacher – It cannot fully replace your teacher’s guidance, feedback, or judgment
A source of guaranteed correct information – AI can make mistakes or give inaccurate or incomplete answers
A decision-maker for your life – Important choices should be made with the help of trusted adults, not AI
If you need help, guidance, or support, always talk to a trusted adult such as a teacher, counselor, parent, administrator, or doctor.
AI should be used as a learning tool, not a substitute for human relationships, support, or responsibility.
AI tools may only be used for learning, instruction, or district-approved professional tasks. All use must align with ethical expectations and district policy.
AI use is not permitted for:
Creating or sharing discourteous, hostile, offensive, or harmful content
Producing misleading or deceptive information (including misinformation or disinformation)
Impersonating others or misrepresenting identity
Creating or distributing deepfakes (manipulated audio, images, or video that falsely represent a person’s words or actions)
Harassing, targeting, or damaging the reputation of individuals or groups
Any non-academic or non-approved personal use that violates district expectations
All AI-generated content must reflect responsible digital citizenship and appropriate use.