Communicating with families and aligning with policy
Clear communication builds trust around AI use in the classroom—particularly in secondary grades, where families often have questions or concerns about how AI affects learning, assessment, and academic integrity. Strong communication starts at the school or district level, where technology policies establish shared expectations for AI use. Classroom practices should align with these policies, with individual teachers or departments defining how AI is used within specific courses. In some cases, a course may prohibit AI use entirely; in others, limited or more structured use may be appropriate.
In communications such as syllabi, family letters, or course overviews, teachers can clearly describe expectations for student AI use, including what is allowed, what requires disclosure, and what constitutes misuse under school policy. Establishing these expectations early—and revisiting them as needed—reduces confusion and supports responsible, ethical use.
While AI can draft general messages efficiently, communication about individual students (e.g., behavior, grades, sensitive issues) should always be reviewed, personalized, and finalized by the human teacher. This preserves the personal trust essential to the teacher-family relationship. Always ensure your communication aligns with current district policy.
