The Torrance Unified School District (TUSD), in Los Angeles County, Calif., is in the final stages of formally adopting new guidelines and policies that will allow for the integration of AI tech into classrooms.
The plan was developed by TUSD’ EdTech Team working in partnership with the TUSD AI committee and a group of stakeholders that includes teachers, administrators, and technology specialists. The group behind the plan’s development said its goals for incorporating AI into education are to provide equity and access for all students and to equip them with the skills necessary for future job opportunities.
The new policy is expected to go before the school board for approval in the fall. The school district said the new guidelines will also include updates to student and teacher technology Acceptable Use Policies. As part of the new Acceptable Use Policies, parents and families will grant permission for their students between the ages of 13-17 to be able to use AI tools, satisfying the terms of service for AI tools such as ChatGPT.
To develop the new guidelines and policies, the EdTech Team conducted anonymous surveys to understand how AI is being utilized in supporting curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The Los Angeles County Office of Education said that one survey found that more than 60 percent of teachers had never used AI, which highlighted the need for increased AI literacy among educators. The district acknowledges that teacher literacy is crucial for students to benefit from AI in education, as teachers need to guide and model its use.
To address unfamiliarity with AI among students and staff, TUSD is employing several approaches:
- Teacher and Student Surveys: The district launched multiple anonymous surveys with students and teachers. The survey data has been used to inform the district’s AI implementation plan and to advocate for increased AI literacy.
- Professional Development: The district has been offering workshops and webinars that cover AI basics, AI use for lesson and curriculum development, and AI’s role in supporting digital literacy and citizenship.
- Onboarding Presentation: The EdTech team has been conducting AI onboarding presentations at school sites. This month, the district will offer the presentation to all school principals, introducing them to AI concepts and best practices. Families and community members will be invited to attend a webinar later this fall to provide information on AI usage and the newly established TUSD policies.
- Pilot Program: The district has launched a paid pilot program with 25 teachers who will pilot the use of SchoolAI – an AI education platform – in their classrooms. The program will involve training and provide opportunities for feedback on the platform. The goal is to gain insights into how AI can be effectively integrated into teaching and learning.
- District Resources: A webpage of resources related to AI in education has been created for the district, offering information and guidance to staff.
