At Overton County Schools, we are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. As part of this commitment, we are excited to introduce our new initiative focused on integrating cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology into our educational programs.

Our goal is to prepare students for post-secondary education and future careers by providing them with hands-on experience and a deep understanding of AI. Through innovative learning opportunities, we aim to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s job market.

Equally important is our dedication to teaching the responsible use of AI. We emphasize the ethics of digital citizenship, ensuring that our students not only become proficient in AI technologies but also understand the importance of using these tools ethically and responsibly. By instilling these values, we strive to create a generation of informed and conscientious digital citizens.

We also place a high priority on data security. To ensure that all data is secure, we only permit the use of Microsoft Copilot by our staff. This measure helps us maintain the highest standards of data protection and privacy, giving our community peace of mind as we embrace these advanced technologies.

Explore our resources to learn more about how we are shaping the future of education with AI. Together, we can empower our students to achieve their full potential and make a positive impact on the world.

Current Microsoft Copilot is the only approved AI technology for Overton County Schools.

1. Purpose

To establish guidelines for the acceptable use of AI programs by staff and students in the district, ensuring compliance with district policies, state and federal laws, and promoting responsible use of AI technology.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to all staff and students within the Overton County School District.

3. Definitions

• AI Programs: Software applications that utilize artificial intelligence as defined by state law.

• Approved AI Programs: AI programs that have been reviewed and approved for use by the district. (Microsoft Copilot)

4. Approval Process for AI Programs

• Staff wishing to use additional AI programs must submit a request to the Supervisor of Technology.  The request should include the program name, purpose, and how it will be used.

• District technology staff will review the program for compliance with district policies and state and federal student data privacy laws.

• Recommendations will be presented to the Director of Schools for final approval.

• Approved programs will be accessible to age-appropriate students and listed on the district website.

5. Staff Use of AI Programs

• Staff may use approved AI programs for tasks such as drafting communications, creating instructional content, and analyzing data.

• Staff must disclose their use of AI tools if:

  • It violates the terms of use of the AI tool.

  • It would mislead a supervisor or others about the nature of the work.

  • It is inconsistent with the teacher code of ethics.

• Staff must ensure the security of private student data when using AI programs.

• Outputs from AI programs must be verified by reliable sources and reviewed for accuracy.

• AI-generated outputs must not be incorporated into proprietary content or works.

6. Student Use of AI Programs

• Only students over the age of 13 may be permitted to use AI tools.

• Teachers may allow students to use approved AI programs for instructional purposes, aligning with approved instructional standards and curriculum.

• Teachers must provide students with instruction on the responsible use of AI before allowing its use.

• Students must be taught:

  • Effective use of generative AI.

  • When it is appropriate to use AI in assignments.

  • How to determine the accuracy of AI responses.

  • The difference between cheating and seeking support.

7. Data Privacy and Security

• Employees must not place personally identifiable information, financial information, intellectual property, or other confidential information into an AI system.

• Employees may only use approved AI technologies in Microsoft Copilot with sensitive data.  This excludes personal accounts.

• Emphasis will be placed on securing and properly storing any data collected by the district in compliance with state and federal laws.

8. Training and Professional Development

• Overton County Schools will incorporate AI training into professional development for district staff.

• Training will focus on responsible use of AI, best practices, and compliance with data privacy laws.

9. Notice to Parents

• Parents/guardians will be notified about the use of AI programs in the district.

• An approved list of AI programs will be posted on the district website.

10. Reporting

• The Director of Schools will submit a report to the Board of Education each June on the enforcement of this policy for the upcoming school year.

• The Board will approve the report, and the Director will submit it to the Department of Education by July 1st.