industry needs and engages our students in realworld learning in their desired career field. MODERNIZING THE CLASSROOM WITH TECHNOLOGY AND AI Montgomery ISD’s approach to technology is strategic and integrated, focusing on tools that directly enhance instruction rather than serving as a separate track.“We wanted to find ways to use that technology to enhance our instruction,” explains Dr. Amy Busby, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Innovation.“So not to be necessarily a separate tract or a separate focus, but to be something that we just integrated within the classroom.” A cornerstone of this effort was the rollout of a one-to-one device initiative in 2023, issuing Chromebooks to all students in sixth grade and above. This significant infrastructure investment provides the necessary access for advanced learning. Dr. Ruffin connects this directly to future readiness, stating, “our kids will never live in a life without Chat GPT or AI.” The district’s stance on Artificial Intelligence is deliberately measured, acknowledging its dual nature. Dr. Ruffin notes it “can be one of those things that if not governed,it really can rob kids of critical thinking skills,” while also recognizing its potential as a resource. To navigate this, the district is taking proactive, practical steps. This includes implementing legislative-required safeguards for staff and forming a dedicated committee.“Our technology department with our instructional technology team will actually lead a committee this year with our teachers to review and select tools that kind of fit in those parameters of student privacy,” says Dr. Busby. This committee’s role is to vet and select AI tools that 290 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11
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