Washington school district transforms AI policy with teacher-guided framework for education

Kelso School District in Washington state has introduced an innovative policy framework for AI use in education, marking a significant shift in how K-12 schools approach artificial intelligence. The district’s comprehensive approach includes a sliding scale for teachers to determine appropriate AI use levels for assignments, alongside training programs addressing ethical concerns about the technology. This thoughtful implementation represents how educational institutions are working to balance technological advancement with critical thinking skills development.

The big picture: After a year of development by the district’s AI Advisory Committee, Kelso School District has transitioned from blocking AI tools like ChatGPT to implementing structured guidelines that prepare students for responsible AI use.

Key details: The district officially changed its policy in October 2024, making AI programs accessible by default on school devices while providing teachers with the option to block them when necessary.

• A standardized scale now helps teachers determine appropriate levels of AI assistance for each assignment.
• Elementary school students are not actively encouraged to use AI tools under the new policy.

What they’re saying: District officials frame the policy as preparing students for future workforce demands while maintaining educational integrity.

• “We really wanted it to be a tool for our students to use in an ethical and responsive and educated way,” said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack.
• Instructional Technology Specialist Brenda Sargent noted that “teachers are really liking how it’s saving them time with basic writing skills and being able to analyze articles.”

Early adoption patterns: Prior to implementation, approximately one-third of Kelso students and staff reported using AI tools, according to district surveys.

• Students at middle and high schools received formal training on the new policies during January and February 2025.
• The district plans to conduct follow-up surveys after spring break to measure changes in AI adoption rates.

Ethical considerations: Training programs specifically address concerns about AI’s environmental impact, copyright issues, and content reliability.

• Students learn about water consumption by data centers that power AI systems.
• Discussions include the controversy surrounding training data sources and potential copyright infringement.
• Content accuracy and bias in AI-generated materials are emphasized as critical evaluation points.