The Case for AI in Schools

As AI tools rapidly make their way into classrooms, the key questions aren’t just about “how” to use them but “how responsibly” and “where to draw the line.” Schools have long been hubs of innovation and learning, yet with AI now influencing how students research, create, and collaborate, the stakes are higher than ever. Even in districts that restrict AI access, students are finding ways to use it—often on their personal devices or outside school networks. Ignoring AI’s presence only drives it underground, where it becomes a “dirty secret” instead of a powerful, openly discussed educational tool.

We need to bring AI into the light, establishing clear expectations on when, how, and why it should be used. If AI is a game-changer for teachers, the same holds true for students. Without defined boundaries, we’re setting the stage for unintended consequences, from breaches of academic integrity to complex legal disputes.

A recent case in Massachusetts illustrates just how crucial an AI Code of Conduct can be. At Hingham High School, a student faced penalties for using AI to assist with a history project. The school, lacking specific guidelines on AI, downgraded his work—a decision that blindsided the student and his family. They’ve since filed a lawsuit, claiming the absence of clear AI policies led to an unjust penalty. This case highlights why schools urgently need actionable, transparent AI policies. Let’s examine why an AI Code of Conduct is essential and what we can learn from the Hingham case.

The Case for an AI Code of Conduct

When it comes to AI, having a Code of Conduct isn’t just about rules—it’s about guiding everyone in a shared understanding of how, when, and why these tools can be used. Here’s what a solid AI Code of Conduct can bring to a school setting:

1. Setting Clear Expectations
   Students and teachers alike need to know what’s acceptable when it comes to AI. Are students allowed to use AI for research? For brainstorming? For drafting? Without clear rules, everyone is left guessing, which leads to misunderstandings and inconsistent enforcement.
2. Protecting Academic Integrity
   Academic integrity is central to any school environment, but AI complicates things. If a student uses AI to assist with a project, are they still the “author” of that work? By defining acceptable use cases, schools can protect the learning process and keep the value of original work intact.
3. Respecting Student Privacy
   Many AI tools require users to input personal data, and protecting that data is a top priority. An AI Code of Conduct can include privacy guidelines, ensuring that student information is handled securely and ethically, following privacy laws and standards.
4. Boosting Digital Literacy
   An AI Code of Conduct can double as an educational tool. With clear guidelines, teachers can help students understand the ethical and practical aspects of AI, promoting critical thinking and responsible use. This kind of “AI literacy” will be a valuable skill as students move into college and careers.
5. Avoiding Legal Complications
   As the Hingham case shows, unclear AI policies can lead to legal battles, especially if disciplinary actions feel arbitrary. When schools have documented, transparent policies, they’re better equipped to handle disputes fairly, reducing the risk of legal challenges.

What We Can Learn from the Hingham High School Lawsuit

The Hingham case highlights just how important it is to be proactive about AI policies.

• Make Policies Public and Clear: Ambiguity breeds frustration. By publishing an AI Code of Conduct, schools ensure that all students, teachers, and families know the guidelines up front.
• Ensure Consistent Policy Enforcement: Without a standardized approach, punishments can feel random, opening the door to disputes and, potentially, lawsuits.
• Prioritize Ongoing AI Education: Schools that proactively teach responsible AI use and ethics set students up for success, not just in school but in future academic and professional settings.

Moving Forward: Building an AI Code of Conduct That Works

Setting up an AI Code of Conduct isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s becoming an essential part of modern education. AI is here to stay.  Districts cannot put their heads in the sand and how it will all blow over. This document should be clear, accessible, and collaborative, involving input from students, educators, and even families. And it’s not about limiting learning; it’s about creating a roadmap that lets students engage with AI in ways that are fair, safe, and beneficial for everyone involved.

Schools everywhere can take a cue from the Hingham case. It’s a reminder that as AI continues to evolve, our policies and practices need to evolve with it. Let’s make sure we’re setting the stage for positive, thoughtful AI use in our schools—because, ultimately, an informed approach to AI benefits us all.

Resources for Building Your Own AI Code of Conduct

To support your school’s journey in creating or refining its AI Code of Conduct, here’s a list of helpful resources:

1. Examples of AI Codes of Conduct:
   • Round Lake Area Schools Use of Artificial Intelligence
   • Snohomish School District AI Code of Conduct
   • Edmonds CSD Student AI Code of Conduct
   • Ditch That Textbook AI Policies Collection
   • AI-Generated Sample Code: Created by ChatGPT
2. AI in Action: Gwinnett County Public Schools
   • Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Course
3. Guidance Toolkits for Schools:
   • TeachAI’s AI Guidance Toolkit
   • Comprehensive AI Guidance from Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
4. Curated Resources for Educators in the Classroom:
   • Student AI Classroom Posters
   • Infused Learning AI Expectations

These resources offer a wide range of perspectives, from foundational policies to classroom applications, and can serve as inspiration as you work on developing or refining your own school’s AI policies.