Title and Board Action Requested
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Presentation on the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidance Framework
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Executive Summary
The Supervisor of Instructional Technology, on behalf of the Superintendent of Schools, hereby requests the Board to review the presentation on the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidance Framework.
Purpose and Context
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidance Framework was developed by the district’s AI Task Force as a companion to School Board Policy 7540.08 - Artificial Intelligence. Its purpose is to provide clarity, consistency, and practical guidance for staff and students regarding responsible and instructional use of AI tools. The framework does not constitute new policy or mandates; rather, it translates existing policy into actionable guidance for classrooms and district operations.
Guiding Philosophy
The framework is grounded in the principle that AI is a tool to support learning - not a replacement for student thinking or professional judgment. All AI use in Hernando County Schools is expected to be learning-focused, teacher-guided, ethically responsible, transparent, inclusive, and aligned with student privacy and safety requirements.
Student Use of AI
Student use of AI tools is not permitted by default. Teachers must explicitly authorize AI use for specific instructional purposes, clearly defining appropriate and prohibited uses. When permitted, AI may support tasks such as research planning, data analysis, writing feedback, language supports, or accessibility accommodations, while original thinking, analysis, and academic integrity remain central expectations.
Approved Tools and Developmental Alignment
The framework establishes approved AI tools by grade band to ensure developmentally appropriate implementation. Elementary use is limited and highly supervised, middle school use emphasizes guided academic support, and high school use allows for expanded instructional applications with clear disclosure and accountability. Staff use if AI is permitted for professional tasks but must comply with data privacy, security, and professional standards.
Ethical Guardrails and Protections
The guidance explicitly prohibits harmful or unethical uses of AI, including deepfakes, impersonation, harassment, misinformation, privacy violations, or misrepresentation of individuals or district communications. All AI use must comply with state and federal laws, including FERPA and COPPA, as well as district technology and acceptable use policies.
Oversight and Ongoing Review
To remain responsive to evolving technologies and legal guidance, the framework is intended to be a living document. The district will conduct regular reviews supported by an AI Advisory Committee, ensuring continued alignment with instructional goals, community values, and Board direction.
Board Awareness
This presentation and executive summary are provided for informational purposes to share the outcomes of the AI Task Force’s work. The framework reflects extensive collaboration, discussion, and consensus-building and represents the district’s current approach to responsible and educationally sound AI use.
My Contact
Jesse Diaz
Supervisor of Instructional Technology
352-797-7000 ext. 70150
diaz_j@hcsb.k12.fl.us
2023-28 Strategic Focus Area
Priority 1: Student Success
Financial Impact
See attached budget sheet.
If expenditure is not currently budgeted, this will serve as the budget amendment when Board approved. If the agenda item includes the purchase of goods or services, the funds requested are an anticipated amount and may fluctuate depending on such factors as current market conditions, product availability, additional funding sources, and the needs of the District. Should the actual cost exceed the anticipated amount, the Board approves the additional cost, after review by the superintendent, but not in excess of the funds available in the site’s approved annual budget.