Civil Municipal - May 2024

create amazing outcomes that benefit the students at our school.” From digital newsletters to hands-on projects, students explore and experiment, building on foundational skills while becoming proficient with current technology. As a one-to-one district, each student is equipped with a device, and North Branch uses Google Suite, further enhancing the capabilities of learners. “I think a lot of our students speak Google before they speak anything else,” quips James. “Learning how to talk to the computers is such an important skill set, besides all of those soft skills that are still going to be incredibly important moving into the future.” Amber White, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, emphasizes the vital role of AI in education, stressing the importance of preparing staff and students to utilize these tools effectively. She notes that a district-wide technology committee is exploring AI integration into the curriculum, sharing,“I do feel we’re on the precipice of a new shift in education. I truly believe that if we’re not preparing our staff and our students to work alongside these AI tools that we’re using every day, they’re going to be at a deficit.” Suggesting that artificial intelligence can be used as a “thought partner” for students, instead of a generative tool, White mentions platforms like Khanmigo, offered through Khan Academy, which provides personalized learning experiences. 225 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 05 NORTH BRANCH AREA SCHOOLS