Use of Artificial Intelligence in Schools
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to become one of the most transformative tools in education, with an impact that may rival the introduction of the internet and the personal computer. As a school division that has embraced technology to enhance teaching and learning, Hanover School Division recognizes that AI can simplify routine tasks, amplify creativity, and support more responsive learning experiences that reflect different student needs.
This work is not about replacing educators or diminishing the human element of education. Teaching and learning are built on relationships, professional judgment, care, and meaningful human connection. AI provides another way to empower educators, create more time for students, and explore new possibilities for learning. The classroom remains a deeply human space, and AI should be used in ways that make our classrooms stronger, more responsive, and more engaging.
We want staff to have the freedom to explore, experiment, and learn what AI can offer while working within appropriate guardrails. These guidelines are not intended to provide rigid rules for every possible situation. They are about defining a responsible space for exploration, a space where curiosity and creativity are encouraged and where educators feel supported to try new things, share what they learn, and grow together.
AI use in HSD is guided by our divisional vision for developing essential learning competencies, including creativity, citizenship, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and connection to self. Integrating AI education into our broader digital citizenship framework will help students engage with emerging technologies thoughtfully,
ethically, safely, and responsibly.
As a division, we have worked to balance the opportunities presented by AI with legitimate concerns related to privacy, accuracy, bias, academic integrity, and the protection of each student’s thinking and individual voice. The following guidelines and resources are intended to help staff, students, and families understand and navigate these opportunities and concerns together. Responsible and meaningful AI use is a shared responsibility, and ongoing dialogue will be essential as our understanding and practices continue to develop.
Responsible AI Use in HSD
Our student guidelines identify several important expectations for responsible AI use:
- Show Your Learning: Be honest about how AI has been used and be prepared to
explain your thinking and learning. - Respect Direction: Follow teacher expectations for when, where, and how AI may
be used. - Think Critically: Question AI-generated responses and check information carefully.
- Protect Your Privacy: Do not share personal or private information about yourself
or others. - Understand Your Role: Use AI to support learning, thinking, and growth rather
than replace them.
Responsible AI Use in HSD (Printable PDF)
AI for Teachers
HSD has also developed a support resource to help teachers make intentional and thoughtful decisions about the use of AI in their classrooms. The resource (available to teachers) provides practical guidance for exploring AI while maintaining professional judgment, clear learning goals, appropriate safeguards, and a continued focus on student learning.
Closing Statement
Hanover School Division believes that Artificial Intelligence has the potential to enhance teaching, deepen learning, support educators, and help prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
These guidelines are not a final statement. They provide a foundation for responsible exploration while keeping student learning, safety, privacy, well-being, and individual voice at the centre. As the technology continues to change, our practices and guidelines will also continue to evolve through experience, research, professional learning, and ongoing conversations with students, staff, families, and the community.