Though it may be one of the newest states, Alaska’s Department of Education is taking a leadership role in artificial intelligence with new guidance for K-12 schools on how students and educators can use the technology safely and responsibly.
Put together by the Alaska AI K12 Advisory Group, the guidance covers ethical and human-centered AI use; AI literacy; transparency, ethics, oversight, and security; cultural responsiveness and inclusivity; and policies for districts implementing and governing the technology.
“This framework provides comprehensive guidance on the appropriate and responsible integration of Artificial Intelligence tools, particularly Generative Artificial Intelligence, within Alaska’s K-12 education system,” the advisory council wrote.
“The overarching principle is that AI should serve to augment human capabilities, critical thinking, and creativity, never replacing essential human interaction, judgment, or decision making in educational contexts,” they continued, emphasizing that the document should serve as a set of recommendations rather than strict mandates.
With around 20% of Alaskans living in rural areas with varying connectivity levels, the guidance places an emphasis on AI tools and education being accessible to all students, regardless of broadband disparities or device availability.
“Ensuring fair access is fundamental to preventing a new digital divide and promoting equity for all learners, regardless of their location or background,” noted the report.
To ensure this, the document recommends that school districts use state and federal funds to purchase digital instruction materials and provide professional development. Districts should also collect and analyze up-to-date data on student access to technology and home internet connectivity to inform evidence-based AI integration strategies.
The document also said that school districts should clearly disclose when AI is used, set firm data privacy safeguards, and ensure that humans – not algorithms – make decisions that affect students.
Specifically, the council advised districts to craft communication plans and policies that spell out ethical use, academic integrity, and vendor accountability.
It also urged educators to train students to detect bias, misinformation, and “hallucinations,” adding that AI should affirm Alaska’s cultural diversity rather than erase it.
In a LinkedIn post, Andrew White, a computer science content specialist for Alaska’s DOE who helped coordinate the council, said that the document is “a work in progress.”
“A resource website is in development and will accompany this document. North to the future, right?” wrote White.
Alaska is the 32nd state to issue AI guidance for its public schools.