Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming part of the world our students live in and the one they will inherit. At Manhasset, we believe schools have an important responsibility: to help students understand this technology thoughtfully, ethically, and with strong human judgment.
Our approach is grounded in a simple principle: technology should support learning, not replace it. Relationships, strong teaching, critical thinking, and authentic student effort remain at the heart of the educational experience.
As AI tools evolve, we are committed to moving forward thoughtfully, transparently, and in partnership with our families. Our goal is not to chase trends, but to ensure that students develop the knowledge, habits of mind, and ethical awareness they will need to navigate an increasingly complex world.
Our Instructional Stance on AI
Artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool when used thoughtfully, but it does not replace the essential elements of learning.
At Manhasset, we believe:
- Teachers remain central to instruction. AI does not replace professional judgment, expertise, or relationships with students.
- Students must continue to think, question, analyze, and create independently.
- Knowledge and foundational skills matter. AI should not replace the process of learning and practicing important concepts.
- Human judgment, ethics, and responsibility guide how technology is used.
- AI is a tool to be understood—not a shortcut to avoid learning.
Our goal is to help students develop discernment—knowing when technology can be helpful and when their own thinking must take the lead.
Why Schools Are Addressing AI
AI tools are already present in many aspects of daily life—from search engines to writing assistants to emerging workplace technologies. Students will encounter these tools in college, careers, and everyday decision-making.
Schools therefore have an important role in helping students:
- understand what AI is and how it works
- recognize its benefits and its limitations
- question the accuracy of AI-generated information
- identify bias, misinformation, or fabricated content
- use technology responsibly and ethically
Avoiding the topic would leave students underprepared. At the same time, embracing technology without clear expectations would not serve students well. Our approach is to move forward with care, clarity, and strong instructional purpose.
What AI May Look Like in the Classroom
The use of AI in classrooms will vary depending on grade level, subject area, and instructional goals. In many cases, AI may be used as a tool for exploration, questioning, or analysis, rather than as a source of final answers.
Students may learn to:
- ask thoughtful questions of AI systems
- evaluate whether AI-generated information is accurate
- identify errors, bias, or incomplete responses
- reflect on when AI use is appropriate and when independent work is expected
- use technology responsibly within clear teacher guidelines
Teachers may also use AI tools to support their professional work—for example, in brainstorming ideas, differentiating materials, or improving efficiency in non-instructional tasks. However, teachers remain responsible for instructional decisions, curriculum design, and assessment of student learning.
What AI Will Not Replace
While AI is an emerging technology, many aspects of education remain unchanged.
AI will not replace:
- the expertise and relationships provided by teachers
- meaningful classroom discussion and collaboration
- the district’s curriculum and learning goals
- student responsibility for thinking and learning
- the importance of authentic effort and perseverance
Students will continue to engage in reading, writing, problem-solving, discussion, experimentation, and creative thinking. These experiences remain essential to learning and growth.
Our Commitment to Families
Artificial intelligence is a rapidly changing field, and we recognize that families may have questions about how it will impact teaching and learning.
We remain committed to clear communication, thoughtful implementation, and ongoing reflection as we navigate these changes together. Above all, our focus remains on supporting students as they grow into capable, ethical, and thoughtful individuals.
Questions or Additional Information
If you have questions about AI in the classroom or how these topics are being addressed in your child’s school, please feel free to reach out to your building administration, Dr. Richard Sevilla, Director of Instructional Technology at richard_sevilla@manhassetschools.org, or Dr. Rebecca Chowske, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at rebecca_chowske@manhassetschools.org.
We look forward to continuing this important conversation with our community.