West Jordan — In a positive move, Jordan School District educators are bringing artificial intelligence into the classroom.
More than 2,000 teachers in the district are currently using School AI. The program has evolved from a year-long pilot phase to widespread adoption by more than two-thirds of the district's teachers, other school districts across the state, and across the country.
West Jordan Middle School teacher Andrew Holmes was one of the first teachers to test Student AI and played a key role in fine-tuning the program for education during the pilot. He informed developers of the needs of teachers in the classroom and how it would best benefit students and educators.
Jordan School District Superintendent Anthony Godfrey described School AI as “a tutor for each student and an assistant in each teacher's classroom,” and said it would help shape the K-12 educational environment. We emphasize its vital role.
Introducing the transformative impact of AI, Holmes said: I use this to create analysis-filled assignments. ”
The program replaces traditional memorization and worksheets and demonstrates the innovative approach that AI brings to the classroom.
Emphasizing the broader perspective, Holmes says: “As a teacher, you can't expect kids to memorize every little fact. Hopefully, you can teach them how to use those tools a little better.”
Holmes uses School AI in her classroom. (KSL TV)
He said this sentiment underscores his educational philosophy of equipping students with not just information, but the skills to effectively navigate and analyze information.
Godfrey said the Jordan School District is a pioneer in education transformation, with more than 2,000 teachers voluntarily implementing AI into their classrooms. He expressed excitement that the role of AI continues to evolve and foresees the potential for AI to further enhance the classroom.
Amid this transformative journey, safety concerns from parents are growing. To address these concerns, School AI ensures robust data protection measures and provides a safe environment for students to explore and learn about AI.
According to School AI developers, this commitment to safety aligns with broader education goals to keep teachers at the center of the classroom experience and foster a safe and collaborative learning environment.
As AI continues to revolutionize education, the Jordan School District hopes to be a promising example by successfully integrating technology while prioritizing student well-being and academic growth.
The district hopes the combination of innovative tools and dedicated educators will set the stage for a future where AI and education coexist seamlessly, preparing students for tomorrow's challenges.
