In response to growing concerns about the integration of artificial intelligence in educational settings, several parents voiced their opinions during the Bend-La Pine School Board meeting on Tuesday night. They are asking the district to reevaluate its approach to AI technology in classrooms.
Natalie Houston, a mental health therapist from Bend, shared that this initiative arose from a mounting frustration regarding the perceived sluggish response from district officials. She stated, “The sign-on letter emerged from parents’ increasing concern about the seemingly slow and inadequate response to the urgent issue of rising screen use in schools.”
According to the group Well Wired, over 1,000 parents have joined their cause. Houston emphasized that while families recognize the importance of students becoming technologically savvy, they believe that education should not be solely reliant on digital tools. “Parents want their kids to be AI literate. They desire an AI curriculum but do not want their children learning subjects like art history solely from an AI chatbot,” she explained.
Brendan Bouffard, another concerned parent and an attorney specializing in generative AI policy, pointed to research highlighting potential long-term risks. “Especially with generative AI, the drawbacks often surpass the possible advantages. A recent report by Brookings specifically noted how generative AI tools can hinder educational outcomes and impede critical thinking,” Bouffard cautioned.
The issue became particularly personal for Sharee, a mother of a kindergartner. She recounted an incident where her son encountered a disturbing image on a school-issued iPad. “Recognizing the potential harm, I believe it is the district’s responsibility to either enhance safety measures or eliminate such technologies altogether. It seems negligent to place these tools in children’s hands without stronger safety protocols,” she remarked.
In a statement to Central Oregon Daily News, the district explained that it has disabled or blocked access to popular generative AI platforms on district devices. They currently utilize a closed system called MagicSchool, which allows teachers to manage student access. District leaders emphasized that technology should serve to enhance instruction rather than replace it, maintaining that the student-teacher relationship is of utmost importance.
As discussions around the role of technology in education continue, it is clear that parents are eager for a balanced approach that ensures both safety and effective learning. Moving forward, it will be essential for schools to navigate these challenges carefully, integrating technology in a way that truly benefits students.
