The ultimate goal is careful integration, “when we start to roll it out to students, we are clear about when AI can be used, should be used, and when it should not be used,” Smith explains, ensuring that when rolled out to students, it is done so effectively and ethically. INVESTING IN EDUCATORS The strategic direction of Stafford County is embodied by its leader, Smith, who was personally drawn to the district by the clarity of its strategic plan. “The number one thing that drew me to Stafford County was the strategic plan and the direction that we were headed in,” he says, highlighting its focus on postsecondary success and its explicit goal of investing in staff. Smith brings a unique, ground-level perspective to this work, with experience at every level of K-12 education. “I’ve taught kindergarten through 12th grade. I’ve been a principal at elementary, middle, secondary, and high school levels,” Smith explains.“I was very much about ensuring that there was high quality instruction in every classroom everyday, and that’s part of my focus here as superintendent,” noting his instructionally driven focus is on ensuring highquality teaching and removing barriers for educators. 356 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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