North Carolina school district launches AI pilot with strict privacy controls

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced plans to implement artificial intelligence initiatives across dozens of “AI champion schools” starting this fall, while addressing significant privacy and data security concerns. The North Carolina district is developing comprehensive AI policies through community engagement sessions with students, teachers, and parents, positioning itself as a national leader in public school AI adoption.

What you should know: CMS will roll out AI programs in select schools to evaluate and shape district-wide policies before broader implementation.

• The district plans to update K-12 curriculum and staff training programs before releasing detailed policy guidelines in August.
• Currently, students cannot access AI tools on campus, and beginning next year, AI will remain locked on CMS devices even when connected to home networks.
• “We are proud that CMS is leading the way nationally in how public school systems approach artificial intelligence,” said Candace Salmon-Hosey, the district’s chief technology officer.

The approach: District leaders emphasize using AI to enhance rather than replace critical thinking and human skills development.

• Executive director of educational technology Rebecca Lehtinen said the focus is on “empowerment rather than misuse,” with AI used to “enhance” learning but not to “create content.”
• Superintendent Crystal Hill stressed the importance of “prosocial classrooms” that focus on emotional connection and human development, noting these skills cannot be replaced by AI.
• “You are not going to be able to AI your way out of the skills that are needed for today’s workforce,” Hill said.

Privacy concerns drive cautious implementation: District officials highlighted data protection as a primary consideration in their AI strategy.

• Hill expressed concern that information entered into AI systems during students’ K-12 years could resurface later, potentially impacting future educational or career opportunities.
• “I don’t think the average person understands the connection between AI and data privacy,” Hill said, explaining the district’s careful approach to protecting student and employee data.
• CMS is exploring “very protective” generative AI options and considering both Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot as potential service providers.

What they’re saying: Leaders acknowledge both AI’s potential benefits and risks while emphasizing responsible implementation.

• “Anything can be abused and misused. It happens all the time,” Hill said. “But that doesn’t mean that AI itself is bad.”
• Salmon-Hosey noted that community feedback consistently emphasized the need for “a safe approach” to AI integration in schools.