POLICY
The future of AI in schools
Policy foundations for responsible use
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept found only in Silicon Valley or science fiction — it is now part of the daily landscape in our lives, including in education. From student-writing tools powered by large language models to predictive analytics in district operations, AI is rapidly changing the way educators teach, students learn and administrators lead.

Recognizing the advantages, risks and complexity of AI’s integration into public education, CSBA has developed Board Policy 0441 – Artificial Intelligence, which will be released as part of the June 2025 Policy Update Packet. This new board policy provides a foundation for governing boards to navigate the fast-evolving development of AI, with a focus on responsible, equitable and transparent use.

Why a policy on AI?
The need for a formal policy on AI stems from the rapid development and widespread use of generative AI tools across educational settings. Students are turning to AI to assist with writing, research and studying. Teachers are experimenting with AI to generate lesson plans, offer individualized support and provide feedback. Districts are increasingly being approached by vendors offering AI-driven platforms for everything from student assessment to operational efficiency.

Without a structured governance framework, the unregulated use of AI raises critical questions about data privacy, bias in AI algorithms, intellectual property rights, student equity and instructional integrity. Board Policy (BP) 0441 addresses these concerns by emphasizing the ethical and human-centered use of AI, which can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each community. It outlines the board’s role in ensuring that AI tools support — rather than replace — high-quality instruction and in upholding the rights and safety of students. As with all sample policies, boards are encouraged to adapt the language in BP 0441 to reflect their local context and the specific needs of their community.

A critical time to build governance frameworks
It is a critical time for boards to establish governance frameworks for the use of AI. Several key governance opportunities include:

1. Setting clear expectations and definitions

Because AI is a broad and evolving field, governance surrounding the use of AI starts by defining what AI means in the district context, such as distinguishing between generative AI, automated decision-making tools and adaptive-learning platforms. Sample BPs 0440 – District Technology Plan, 0441 – Artificial Intelligence, 4040 – Employee Use of Technology and 6163.4 – Student Use of Technology can serve as a good starting point to establish expectations surrounding the use of AI, including definitions and terminology.

2. Aligning AI use with district values and goals

Governance is not just about compliance, and governance teams should aim to ensure that AI tools support district values and goals, such as equity, privacy, personalized learning and safe environments.

3. Clarifying roles and responsibilities

Governance frameworks surrounding the use of AI help to identify those responsible for its implementation — such as who makes decisions about adopting AI tools, who monitors their use and who addresses concerns or complaints. BPs and administrative regulations (ARs) can ensure that processes are in place for vetting AI tools, training staff and informing families. Policies can also set expectations for vendors, such as data privacy commitments and security requirements, and include guidelines for contracts and third-party software use. Relevant policies include:

  • BP/AR 0440 – District Technology Plan, which addresses planning, implementation, and evaluation of technology use aligned with district goals
  • BP 0441 – Artificial Intelligence, which supports the development of a clear and accountable governance structure for AI
  • BP/AR 4040 – Employee Use of Technology, which sets standards for staff use of district technological resources, including professional responsibilities and security protocols
  • BP/AR 6163.4 – Student Use of Technology, which outlines expectations for safe and responsible technology use and includes provisions for parent/guardian notification

4. Safeguarding data privacy

Governance surrounding the use of AI should address how student and staff data is collected, stored, shared and protected in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and other applicable laws. CSBA sample policies that contain related information include:

  • BP/AR 5125 – Student Records, which outline protocols for the confidentiality and maintenance of student records
  • BP/AR 3580 – District Records, which address records management and security
  • BP/AR 1340 – Access to District Records, which govern public access to information and help ensure transparency
Alignment with technology planning
Boards are encouraged to view AI not as an isolated innovation, but as part of a comprehensive and forward-looking technology strategy that aligns with instructional goals, digital literacy and ethical use.

In addition to the policies described above, other sample policies that CSBA has recently reviewed related to AI include:

  • BP 5131.9 – Academic Honesty
  • BP 6154 – Homework/Makeup Work
  • BP 6162.5 – Student Assessment

The many areas of these policy updates reflects the reality that AI is not confined to a single domain but spans multiple domains. These updates ensure AI is integrated thoughtfully across various aspects of district operations, from instructional materials and student interactions to staff development and the management of digital resources.

Looking ahead
As California local educationl agencies continue to explore AI’s potential, CSBA encourages boards to lead with curiosity and innovation, while proceeding with caution. Policy development is the first step toward creating a safe, thoughtful environment for AI use in schools. By adopting BP 0441 and aligning other key policies, boards can ensure their districts remain proactive and principled in the face of technological change.

For additional guidance, visit CSBA’s AI Taskforce webpages at www.csba.org/AI that offer a treasure trove of resources for board members at every step of their AI journey.