VBCPS families—

Over the last few months, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been at the center of educational conversations across the nation and globe, especially in the form of Generative AI. 

As we continue to integrate technology into our classrooms and curriculum, it’s important we address the growing role of Generative AI and strike a balance between embracing its potential and ensuring responsible usage. Generative AI, powered by advanced algorithms, has the capability to revolutionize education, but it also demands careful consideration to ensure its safe and effective implementation.

AI can be a powerful tool and while we know it has incredible potential, the challenge with it in the educational setting is that it’s designed as a shortcut to a product. Whether that product is an image, a paper or music, AI can help a student create it more quickly and easily than ever before. We know in schools and classrooms the process of understanding how to get to the product is just as important as the product itself. Knowing how to best write a letter or create a drawing is arguably even more important than the finished product itself. What we do not want is for these incredibly smart tools to reduce our students’ levels of understanding and capability simply because AI can provide an answer faster. 

Because of this, as we navigate this new, expansive landscape, at this time, VBCPS will not be providing students access to generative AI from school or on their school devices. That said, we know they may have the ability to gain access at home and want to remind parents that the current usage of these tools is recommended for ages 13 and up with parental supervision. It is important for parents to work with their students and help them understand the data and privacy implications of using such tools. As a division we are working to create guidelines related to how we best regulate its use and will continue to evaluate our approach as the technology advances.

By striking a balance between embracing the potential of Generative AI and implementing thoughtful regulations, we can create a learning environment that prepares our students for the future while ensuring their well-being and development. To learn more about Generative AI, we recommend checking out online resources such as this resource page from commonsense.org. Additionally, you can watch the presentation from the recent School Board retreat in July.

Thank you for your continued support of Virginia Beach City Public Schools.