Boardman Local School District Approves AI Policy to Support Responsible Classroom Integration
As artificial intelligence tools continue to evolve and make their way into classrooms, the Boardman Local School District is taking proactive steps to manage their use thoughtfully and effectively. On Monday, the Board of Education approved a new policy aimed at guiding how AI is used throughout the district, to embrace innovation while safeguarding educational integrity.
Superintendent Chris Neifer emphasized the importance of being prepared. “We know AI is coming. It impacts our students. It impacts the world around us,” he said. “So we wanted to make sure we were in the right position to work with it as it grows.”
The newly approved policy lays out expectations for both students and staff, offering clear guidance on how artificial intelligence can be used responsibly in educational settings. One of the central themes is balance: ensuring that while AI tools are available, they do not replace the development of essential human skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
“It gives us the ability to make sure that we’re using it appropriately,” Neifer explained, “and to make sure we continue to harness those important things for our children, creative thinking skills, so there’s not too much of a reliance on the AI software.”
In preparation for this policy, Neifer and several district leaders participated in nine professional development sessions on AI, provided through the state of Ohio. These sessions ranged from basic AI concepts to the broader implications for education and the job market of the future. Neifer said the training was instrumental in helping district leaders understand how to structure the policy to best support both students and teachers.
The district is also in the process of evaluating AI detection tools and other software that may help ensure AI is being used properly. While those decisions are still being considered, Neifer noted that the district is approaching the process with care and intention.
“It’s been fairly unregulated at this point,” he added. “We want to make sure the resource is being used for good and not evil, and that we’re supporting our teachers so they’re not trying to figure this out on their own.”
Although the policy has been formally adopted, implementation is still underway. District leaders say they are committed to an intentional rollout that prepares students to use AI effectively, while continuing to think critically, creatively, and independently.
