Artificial Intelligence
As we continue to prepare our students for a rapidly evolving world, we are excited to share our district’s vision and approach to integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our schools. The Manheim Township School District (MTSD) has developed an AI Handbook to guide the responsible, intentional, and innovative use of AI across K–12 classrooms.
Literacy
About AI
Create with AI
Manage AI
with AI
Our Vision for AI in Education
MTSD believes that AI is a powerful tool, not a replacement for human intelligence, but a way to amplify creativity, curiosity, and engagement. We are committed to using AI to:
- Enhance student learning and support personalized instruction
- Empower teachers with tools to design meaningful, curriculum-aligned experiences
- Model lifelong learning and prepare students for a future shaped by technology
We also celebrate the irreplaceable human element of teaching, authentic learning experiences, and the nurturing of each student’s potential.
Safe and Responsible Use
MTSD is committed to ensuring that AI is used ethically and responsibly. Students will be clearly informed when AI tools are allowed in assignments, and teachers will guide appropriate use to maintain academic integrity. The district has reviewed and approved a list of AI tools for staff and student use, including platforms like Canva, MagicSchool AI, Microsoft Copilot (via Teams), and more. These tools are selected to align with our curriculum and support safe, productive learning.
What’s Inside the AI Handbook
Our AI handbook outlines how AI is already part of our daily lives, from navigation apps to voice assistants, and how it can be safely and effectively used in schools. Key topics included in the handbook:
- Definitions and examples of AI
- Guidelines for staff and student use
- Academic integrity policies
- A “traffic light” framework for classroom assignments:
- Red Light: No AI use permitted
- Yellow Light: Limited use with teacher permission
- Green Light: Encouraged use with discussion and citation
Supporting Our Community
We recognize that access to AI tools and understanding how to use them can create a new digital divide. That’s why we’re investing in ongoing professional development for staff, reviewing tools for safety and effectiveness, and providing resources to help families and students engage with AI safely, responsibly, and confidently. For additional information and resources, please visit the links below.
MTSD AI Handbook Common Sense Media: This resource provides age-based media reviews for families. Parents' Ultimate Guide to Generative AI AI Literacy Video and ToolkitWe invite you to explore the full AI Handbook and join us in embracing this exciting chapter in education. Together, we can ensure our students are not just consumers of technology, but creators, thinkers, and leaders in a world shaped by it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the district's overall approach to AI?
- MTSD embraces AI as a tool to inspire creativity, spark curiosity, and enhance learning — while preserving the irreplaceable human element of teaching. The goal is intentional, responsible use that prepares students for a future that demands adaptability and digital literacy.
- Will my child be using AI in school?
- Yes. In 2025-2026, students will have access to MTSD-approved AI resources. AI use is guided by the district's AI Policy (School Board Policy 815.2) and aligned with the district curriculum.
- How do teachers decide when students can use AI?
- Teachers use an "AI Traffic Light" system. A red light means no AI is permitted — all work must be the student's own. Yellow and green lights allow AI for specific parts of an assignment, with teacher permission. Students are always notified in advance.
- Does using AI count as cheating?
- It depends on the assignment. Unauthorized AI use violates academic integrity policy. When AI is permitted, students must disclose how they used it — just as they would cite any other source.
- Is my child's personal information safe when using AI tools?
- Student privacy is a top priority under School Board Policy 815.2. Students should never enter personally identifiable information into AI platforms. The district only approves tools that meet its privacy and data security standards.
- Can AI-generated information be trusted?
- Not without verification. Research shows roughly 39% of teens who have used AI for schoolwork have encountered inaccuracies. Students are taught to evaluate AI outputs and confirm information through reliable sources critically.
- What if my child uses AI without permission?
- Unauthorized use of AI on assignments is treated as an academic integrity violation, consistent with existing district policy on plagiarism and honesty.
- How is the district preparing students to use AI responsibly?
- MTSD uses the Digital Promise AI Literacy Framework, which focuses on three areas: understanding AI, using it effectively, and evaluating its outputs critically. Common Sense Education's digital well-being resources are also incorporated.
- Where can I learn more?
- The full AI Handbook and related policies are available on the district website. Additional resources from Digital Promise, Common Sense Media, ISTE, and UNESCO are referenced in the handbook for families who want to dig deeper.