AI in Education

Artificial Intelligence Usage in Community Consolidated School District 62

Ever wonder how computers can understand what you say, recognize faces in photos, or even play games better than a human? That's Artificial Intelligence (AI) at work. At its core, AI is the science of teaching computers to think and learn in ways that mimic human intelligence. It's a powerful tool that's becoming more integrated into our daily lives, from the smartphones in our pockets to the websites we browse.

For students, AI can be a game-changer. These tools can act as a personal tutor, helping you to learn new topics, solve complex problems, and find information more efficiently. Whether you need a hand with a writing assignment, want to generate a unique image for a project, or simply need to brainstorm ideas, AI can help you unlock your creativity and achieve your academic goals.

Examples of AI are all around us. When your phone suggests the next word you should type, that's AI. When you ask Siri or Alexa a question, you're interacting with a voice assistant powered by AI. Programs like Google Translate use AI to break down language barriers, and educational tools like Magic School AI are designed to assist students and teachers. These are just a few examples of how AI is shaping the way we learn, work, and interact with the world.

View our AI Student Expectations

View our Artificial Intelligence in District 62 Guidelines

Over the shoulder of a student looking at an iPad with Magic School AI open

Four students sitting at desks in a group with iPads and other materials out

Student in a blue sweatshirt looking at Magic School AI on their iPad

Brainstorming: AI can help students generate new ideas.
Access to Resources: AI can provide access to a wide range of content and resources at different reading levels and even in different languages.
Feedback: AI can provide feedback on work and offer suggestions for improvement.

What AI Tools can students use, and how will their data and privacy be protected?

At this time, MagicSchool AI, Canva for Education are approved for teacher-directed student activities.
These tools adhere to the privacy and security standards outlined in the Student Online Personal Privacy Act of Illinois and the Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act.
The district has online agreements with each company following these standards that restrict the collection of personal information and data from students under 13.
These tools do not use any data entered in them to teach their AI models or sell to other companies.
These tools have controls that allow teachers to turn on and off student access and monitor student usage.

Will students learn about and use AI in Community Consolidated School District 62?

While using AI in District 62 is not a requirement, teachers are beginning to realize the benefits and potential and may begin to use district-approved AI resources.
Knowing students may still access AI tools independently, it is important to begin discussing and modeling AI usage with students.
Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, K-8 students will receive several age-appropriate lessons on AI literacy. These lessons cover the background of AI, present-day usage, and what the future may hold, and AI ethics and responsible use.
Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, students and parents/guardians are asked to review and sign the AI in the Classroom Student Expectations for Artificial Intelligence document and return it to their school.