approx. 2.5 minute read
Solomon Schools is consistently pushing the envelope in student education. With strong community support and parent feedback, the district integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into its 2030 Strategic Plan as a vital tool to accelerate learning and advance academic excellence. Given the growing relevance and accessibility of AI, it is more important than ever to educate teachers on best practices. This ensures they can appropriately prepare students for the future without moving away from traditional practices, instead using AI as a “multiplier” for cooperation.
Instructional Prep
Using school-provided AI tools like NotebookLM and MagicSchool, staff can transform their research and ideas into specific educational outcomes. Mr. Riordan incorporates AI into learning to leverage the different styles of learning. “This approach allows differentiation while ensuring all outputs remain grounded in the approved academic content,” stated Riordan. He directly teaches the content and students are able to choose how they would like to engage with or review the material.”
Mrs. Livingston uses AI tools in her 8th grade business class. Students have learned Google lens to help with study material and Chat GPT for projects. One student, Corey D, expanded his project at home and, by using key inputs, AI designed a multi-level, league drifting game with car customization, including tournaments and a free play option. He commented on the quality of the product noting that while some improvements were needed, “the AI made a pretty unique game.”.
Mr. Underwood has done a wonderful job introducing AI and guiding his high school students through its exploration with different units of study within his classes.
Grading & Feedback
Mrs. Gies is using AI to assist with grading and feedback as a conversation piece with her students. AI will also provide relief to teachers regarding the time spent on grading. Superintendent Justin Coup found that while the current average for grading is 15 hours per week, AI-assisted tools could save teachers upwards of 6 hours weekly. This improvement allows for a better work-life balance and an increased focus on individual student needs.
Looking Ahead
Integrating AI into the classroom comes with natural growing pains. Teachers are carefully adapting to ensure these tools remain logical and useful. Corey D. testifies to the rapidly growing use of AI stating, “it’s scary how fast it is growing but it’s really cool to play with all of the features.” As Riordan thoughtfully states, “My goal is to train students to use AI to deepen their thinking, ask better questions, and refine their own ideas — not replace them.” USD 393 recognizes artificial intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool to prepare students for a future shaped by emerging technologies. Our goal is to promote future-ready skills, enhance creativity, and support student learning through responsible and guided use of AI tools. Ultimately, the district’s AI policy is explicitly tied to the Solomon Strategic Plan’s core mission: to ensure all students are “academically, career, and life ready.”