Artificial Intelligence
At West Ottawa Public Schools, we believe in preparing students to be college, career, and life ready. A skill that has recently emerged as vital in today’s economy is the ability to navigate, utilize, and understand artificial intelligence (AI). While AI has existed since the 1950s, recent advancements in technology have and will continue to make a significant impact on our economy and future professions. West Ottawa is committed to preparing our students for these changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Artificial Intelligence
What is Generative AI?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to systems designed to complete specific tasks and has existed for many years. Your smartphone’s facial recognition, virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri, and social media algorithms all use AI. Generative AI (GenAI), however, is a newer technology that generates original content—including text, images, and music—by learning from existing data. It enables the creation of innovative, customized educational materials that foster creativity and enhance learning.
What is AI’s Role in West Ottawa Classrooms?
The purpose of AI in our learning environment is to enhance—not replace—the human effort invested in teaching and learning. Its use is intended to support and facilitate learning, not to complete tasks on behalf of students or teachers. AI can provide tailored support to meet diverse learning needs by breaking down complex concepts and summarizing information, thereby enriching the overall educational experience.
What is the district's stance on Data Privacy and Protection with AI?
Ensuring data privacy and security is paramount when using generative AI (GenAI) tools. To safeguard privacy, it is essential to avoid entering any personally identifiable information (PII) or confidential data into AI systems. This includes student and staff contact details, demographic information, and class rosters. By adhering to this guideline, we can use generative AI technologies effectively while protecting the integrity and confidentiality of personal information.
What is appropriate and inappropriate use of AI?
Please see the bottom of this document for more information on the classroom guidelines for AI use in West Ottawa Public Schools:
What are the principles and beliefs of AI in WOPS?
Please see the document below for more information:
How are students and staff learning to use AI appropriately?
West Ottawa staff have received extensive training in generative AI using the resources adopted by WOPS. The tools WOPS has implemented for AI integration include MagicSchool.ai, Google Gemini in the Education Workspace, Read&Write, Canva, and Screencastify. Listed below is an overview video for each resource.
Students will receive classroom instruction from their teachers on how to navigate and use generative AI tools appropriately, as well as the expectations for their use within each course. All of the resources listed comply with privacy laws and do not sell or share student data.
What opportunities will students have for course offerings with AI?
Students at West Ottawa Public Schools have the opportunity to take a dedicated AI course at the high school level called AI Foundations for College and Careers. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and explores its applications in education, industry, and everyday life.
What was the timeline for implementing AI into WOPS?
The infographic below outlines the timeline of West Ottawa’s AI journey—from the initial pilot phase to full adoption and implementation—showing how AI tools and training were introduced to staff and students across the district.
Who do I contact if I want to learn more about AI in West Ottawa Public Schools?
To ask questions about AI in the secondary programs, please contact Todd Tulgestke: tulgestket@westottawa.net
To ask questions about AI in the elementary programs, please contact Kristin Graham: grahamkr@westottawa.net