The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) today announced the release of a comprehensive guide designed to empower TK-12 school districts to navigate the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The "Generative Artificial Intelligence in TK-12 Education Guidelines" offers a roadmap for harnessing the potential of AI to personalize learning experiences, improve student engagement, and support educators – all while prioritizing responsible technology use.

This resource, developed by a dedicated AI Task Force of over 40 members comprised of educators, non-profit groups, universities, philanthropic organizations, and most importantly students from across Los Angeles County, addresses the practical needs of educators and students, while remaining aligned with best practices for ethical AI development.

"This guide is a valuable asset for any school district considering or already exploring AI integration in their schools," said Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. "It empowers educational leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to implement AI responsibly and effectively to enhance student learning.”

Key areas covered in the guide include:

• Needs Assessment: A framework for evaluating your district's specific needs and identifying areas where AI can offer the most significant support.

• Benefits & Risk Assessment: Understanding the potential advantages and drawbacks of AI in education.

• Vendor Selection: Strategies for vetting and selecting trustworthy AI vendors whose products align with your district's goals.

• Pilot Testing: Best practices for pilot testing AI tools before large-scale implementation.

• Empowering Staff & Students: Strategies to ensure AI tools support educators, enhance student learning, and foster a culture of innovation.

• Communications Strategy: Effective methods for communicating AI implementation plans to stakeholders.

• Continuous Monitoring & Feedback: Creating a system for ongoing evaluation and improvement of AI integration within your district.

• Budget Considerations: Financial planning for responsible AI implementation.

These guidelines are part of LACOE’s comprehensive approach to supporting the safe, responsible and ethical use of generative artificial intelligence in TK-12 schools. Other efforts have included professional development, an artificial intelligence symposium in the nation, supporting individual districts in their planning and thought leadership through convenings and partnerships.

The Los Angeles County Office of Education is the nation’s largest regional education agency, providing a range of services and programs to support the region’s 80 school districts and nearly two million students.

The “Generative Artificial Intelligence in TK-12 Education Guidelines” is available for free download on our website.