Bright Spots: How One Student's Voice Changed a District's AI Policy
Dear Educator,
The conversation around technology in education is at a tipping point. With concerns about distractions and academic integrity, many schools are opting to block AI and other tech tools rather than engaging with them. But what if there was another way?
This week’s Bright Spot highlights a powerful moment where a middle school student challenged the status quo—sparking a district-wide shift toward curiosity, conversation, and responsible use.
With Gratitude,
BRIGHT SPOT OF THE WEEK
How One Student's Voice Changed a District's AI Policy
Sometimes the most powerful shifts start with a single question. In a district-wide strategic planning session with board members, central office, school leaders, educators, community members, and students(!), a middle school student stood up. In front of 30 district leaders, she shared how she uses AI, even though it’s blocked at school. Her honesty sparked a conversation that no one saw coming.
When I asked the district team why AI was blocked, they weren’t sure. Within two hours, they reached out to their tech team, confirmed the block, and requested to lift it. Even better, the Director of HR personally walked over to the 7th-grader who started the conversation and had her send the text that set the change in motion—opening up AI access districtwide.
This moment was about more than technology; it was about student agency—a core outcome connected to learner-centered learning. A single student voice led to real action, and now the district is having the conversations that truly matter—about access, responsible use, and the future of learning. This is what learner-centered leadership looks like. How is your school or district handling AI? What questions are still unanswered? I'd love to hear your stories!
Listening to learners is essential when leading change. This tool will help you spark conversations with your students to understand what’s working and where innovation may best serve your school. Access this tool here.
MORE FROM LEARNER-CENTERED COLLABORATIVE
?? From Data to Storytelling: How Scorecards are Transforming School Accountability in Hawai’i. "Uniquely, these scorecards offer leaders the evidence they need to tell unspoken stories. Some stories highlight triumphs and cultural celebrations, while others may reveal opportunities for iteration and improvement. All of them reflect a more complete picture of student development that honors the desired outcomes of the local community." Explore the research.
??? Reimagining Learning Through Co-Design and Agenc. "Allie Wong discusses her experiences co-designing projects with students, fostering deep engagement, and empowering learners to take ownership of their education. Her journey led her to leadership roles where she championed teachers, protected their time, and cultivated a strong culture of collaboration and improvement science." Tune-in here.
?? Learner-Centered Bright Spots: Making Learning Public and Closing the Year Strong. "This session will guide you through reflective practices and strategies to wrap up the year in a way that celebrates the learning across your school community." Register for this April webinar.
SUBSCRIBE TO BRIGHT SPOTS
Want this newsletter delivered directly to your inbox? Sign up here.
This is great! It would be helpful to understand exactly how the student used AI so we know what aspects of AI are valuable to educators and changed the policy.