Earlier this summer, the Post asked our readers what issues you wanted to hear candidates running for Spring Hill Board of Education to address leading up to the Nov. 4 election.
Based on that feedback, we developed a five-item questionnaire centering the issues most important to the Spring Hill community.
Each day this week, we’re publishing the candidates’ responses to one question.
Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Artificial intelligence: Artificial intelligence is a new and rapidly evolving technology that proponents say can revolutionize many aspects of modern life, including teaching and learning. But many people in education worry about AI’s impacts and possible abuses, including facilitating cheating and making students’ and staff’s personal data less secure. How should your district approach establishing policies and protocols when it comes to the use of AI in schools?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on this issue:
Member 4
Autumn Coleman-Marconett
AI like many other advances in technology is ever-changing. Its popularity is growing at leaps and bounds. Just like the advances with computers, cell phones, etc. we cannot avoid these technologies. We must simply remember they are tools. Geared towards assisting and not replacing original and individual thoughts. It’s a tool that can be useful. But as the saying goes, trash in; trash out. Using AI carefully and within respect to the already set in place policies/procedures on citing sources, plagiarism, etc. AI can be considered such if one uses it inappropriately.
Nicole Melius (incumbent)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
Member 5
Steve Miller
I believe that AI may revolutionize education in an incredibly positive way, but we must have clear, transparent policies in place to ensure its proper use.
I support anything that automates the administrative parts of a teacher’s workload and allows them to focus more time on students. I also see value in how AI could further individualize instruction to our student’s by easily creating content tailored to a student’s ability, pace, and learning style. As with all educational technology, educators must remain at the center of teaching.
Most forms of technology carry risks and AI is no different. Data privacy must be protected through thoughtful standards and consistent audits of the tools our district uses. Furthermore, students and staff should be trained on the ethical use of AI in order to help mitigate misuse like plagiarism and data sharing.
AI is technology that our district should be excited to embrace with a cautious, policy-driven approach.
Chris Olsen
Did not provide the Post with a response.
Member 6
Ted Beauchamp
I think there are times when we shouldn’t be afraid to acknowledge we don’t have all of the answers, and this is certainly one of them. The board should recognize that this rapidly evolving, complex technology comes with pros and cons, and there may not be a one-size-fits-all strategy throughout the district.
This issue exemplifies the importance of having a highly qualified administrative staff that works as a team. I trust our staff to study the topic on an ongoing basis, and when appropriate, bring recommendations to the board for discussion. I have full confidence that our directors will keep the board updated on this, while protecting the personal data of students and staff.
I won’t proclaim to be an expert in areas that I’m still learning, but I will respect the recommendations of staff members who are analyzing the research on the effects that AI and all technologies have on our students.
I believe it is incredibly important to respect the limitations put on board members by state statute, and recognize that the experts on education are in our buildings every day. Respect for our educators and staff is critical in recruiting and retaining the best people to propose policy on new technologies.
Keith Ewing (incumbent)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
