To the editor:
Drive-thrus, cars, and customer service have one feature in common: Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is transforming the world, automating tasks that were once daunting, like building an app or running a business. However, as a school, we need to educate the next generation on the ethical use of AI. Wellesley Middle School must integrate the ethical use of AI through a clear policy given to all students and teachers while also educating students about the proper use of it.
Firstly, a schoolwide survey verifies the presence of AI: over 90% of the school utilizes it, with 50% of students and 30% of teachers frequently interacting with it. However, respondents rated the clarity of the current expectations on AI use at a 6 out of 10. This mediocre rating proves that change is needed. Kids are using AI in schools, this can’t be stopped. Therefore, embracing AI is essential, as an NPR study shows it can help students learn efficiently and effectively while also letting teachers save time, but only if used properly.
Furthermore, AI education could be implemented into the already existing advisory period where we already discuss bullying, emotions, and social media. AI is just as important as those topics, so it makes sense to educate students on it. Integrating interactive lessons about how to use AI ethically during advisory multiple times a month would provide students with the skills to use AI. This simple, feasible solution demonstrates that AI integration doesn’t require a schedule overhaul, just a small fraction of a student’s time.
Even if incorporating AI into everyday school life may increase unethical use, that risk is why we must teach kids how to use AI. If we lock down on AI use instead of allowing it, then today’s kids will be lost in the inescapable AI filled future. Right now, kids are hindering their development and learning with AI. The only solution is to teach AI literacy to kids in the place where they learn everything else: the classroom.
Ultimately, Artificial Intelligence will become a part of our daily life; that’s for sure. It will become a part of every student’s life at some point. We must embrace the inevitable instead of rejecting it. The time is now to educate students on AI with a clear policy and expectations while also allowing AI use in school.
Thank you,
Krish Gupta
Grade 8 student, WMS
