Artificial Intelligence (AI)

As we navigate the evolving landscape of education, Jeffco is committed to leveraging innovative technologies that facilitate extraordinary experiences and outcomes for all students. We believe that AI presents an opportunity to responsibly transform our present to prepare our students for their future.

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a type of technology that helps computers think and learn like people.

It can recognize patterns, make decisions, and even learn from experience, similar to how we learn from practice or examples.

What is Generative AI?

Generative AI (GenAI) is a specific kind of AI that doesn't just follow instructions, it creates new things.

For example, it can write stories, draw pictures, or help design something by learning from lots of examples. Think of it like a creative friend who’s read millions of books or seen tons of artwork and can use that to create something new.

AI in Jeffco

At Jeffco, we believe that using AI in smart and thoughtful ways can help students succeed in school and life. It’s not just about using new tools. It’s about preparing our students for a future where AI is a part of everyday life.

We are committed to helping students:

Use AI responsibly and ethically
Think critically about how AI works
Be creative and confident when using AI tools

AI and Jeffco's Strategic Plan

AI and Jeffco's Strategic Plan

GenAI is a strategic opportunity for Jeffco students

The district's strategic plan, Jeffco Thrives, prioritizes innovation and future-ready skills for all students. Generative AI is a powerful new technology that’s already changing how we learn and work. When used thoughtfully, it supports the strategic priorities called out in Jeffco Thrives.

Priority 1: Our Learners, Our Future

We're committed to using innovative AI to prepare Jeffco students for their future, not our present.

Priority 2: Our People, Our Strength

AI will help teachers by automating tasking a providing insights into student performance.

Priority 3: Our Operations, Our Foundation

AI will be implemented ethically and responsibly, respecting privacy and security.

Priority 4: Our Community, Our Legacy

We will provide opportunities to learn about AI and encourage feedback from our community

Why is AI Important in Education?

GenAI is changing the way we learn and teach. It can:

Help students understand hard ideas in new ways
Give instant feedback
Support teachers with personalized learning for each student
Encourage creativity in writing, art, and design

Maintaining the Human Connection

GenAI is changing the way we teach, learn and work, but people will always be the most important part of education. When used thoughtfully, AI tools boost creativity, insight and judgment, without becoming a replacement for them.

We believe that students and teachers should use AI as a partner, not a substitute. It’s a tool to help us think more deeply, act responsibly and stay connected with each other.

AI in Action

Guiding Principles for AI in Jeffco

To ensure that GenAI is used safely, effectively and ethically, Jeffco has set guiding principles for students, teachers and staff.

These principles support student well-being, academic integrity and equitable access to technology. Following these principles creates a learning environment where AI is used responsibly to support long-term student success.

AI should help you think, not think for you

Engage with AI ethically, inclusively and with integrity

You are 100% responsible for your final product

AI should be used safely and securely

Stay informed and current

Guidance for Students and Educators

Guidance for Student Use of GenAI

Students should use AI transparently, verify its accuracy, and ensure it supports, rather than replaces, their own thinking and creativity.

View Guidance for Students

Guidance for Educator and Staff Use of GenAI

Jeffco staff members should use professional judgment, model ethical AI use, and prioritize the human connections that support student growth.

Jeffco staff can learn more on the AI Guidance for Educators & Staff intranet page

AI Tools Used in Jeffco

Jeffco educators use AI tools to make learning more personalized, engaging and effective while prioritizing student safety and learning. These tools help teachers save time, gain helpful insights, and focus on supporting each student’s individual needs.

We follow a rigorous review process to ensure that every AI tool meets our standards for security, accessibility and educational value. Each tool is evaluated for its purpose, age appropriateness, ease of use, technical needs and impact on student privacy.

Approved tools fall into three categories:

District-supported tools receive full integration, training and ongoing support
Self-supported approved tools include usage guidelines for teacher implementation
Restricted tools require special approval or are prohibited due to security or safety concerns

To ensure appropriate use, each tool is also labeled as General Use, Guided Use, or Restricted Use based on grade level and user role. This process ensures responsible and effective AI integration in our classrooms.

District Supported AI Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Jeffco ensure students use AI responsibly and avoid cheating?

We believe in teaching students to use AI as a learning tool, not a shortcut. Our approach combines clear guidelines with education about responsible use. Teachers discuss with students when and how to use AI appropriately, just as they do with other research tools. Students learn to:

Document when they use AI for assignments
Understand which tasks should be completed independently
Use AI to support their learning, not replace their own thinking
Think critically about AI-generated information

When students submit work, they're expected to be honest about any AI tools they used. This helps teachers understand their thinking process and provide better support.

What AI tools does Jeffco support?

Jeffco-supported tools for staff include: Gemini, CoPilot, Adobe Express and Notebook LM.

AI tools such as Magic School, School.ai, Adobe Firefly, Brisk and Diffit are also available for staff, but are self-supported.

Jeffco-supported tools for students include: AI applications that do not collect personal student information (such as email, name, or birthdate) and meet age requirements, typically 13 and older.

How can students tell when it's appropriate to use AI for schoolwork?

How are teachers using AI to support student learning?

Teachers are using AI in many ways, including:

Designing safe, responsible AI experiences that support student growth
Creating and adapting lessons, quizzes, and materials for different reading levels
Personalizing learning by using data to adjust the pacing and content to support individual student needs
Enhancing classroom engagement through interactive activities like gamification and virtual field trips

What safety measures are in place when students use AI tools?

Key safety measures for students using AI tools include:

Student data is protected by following privacy laws like FERPA and COPPA, limiting data collection, using secure storage and maintaining transparency with families and stakeholders.
Safe and ethical use is promoted through content filtering, monitoring student interactions and teaching responsible use, academic integrity, and the risks of misuse, such as plagiarism.
Student well-being is supported by preventing over-reliance on AI, addressing misinformation, managing screen time and considering social and emotional impacts.
Implementation is handled thoughtfully with thorough training for teachers, clear policies, regular evaluation and adaptation of safety practices, and active involvement from all stakeholders.

How can families support healthy AI use at home?

Learn About AI Together: Take some time to explore what AI is and how it’s being used in education. Understanding its benefits and challenges will help you guide your child.
Have Open Conversations: Discuss with your child how to use AI responsibly and ethically. Help them understand the importance of critical thinking and creativity while using AI tools.
Stay Connected with Teachers: Talk to your child’s teachers about how AI is being used in the classroom. This ensures you're both on the same page and can reinforce healthy AI habits at home.

View a Parent's Guide to AI

Will students still learn essential skills if they're using AI?

While AI can automate tasks and provide information, it cannot replicate the uniquely human and creative spirit. Durable skills that remain constant even with the integration of AI are:

Communication: Information exchange and management
Leadership: Directing efforts and delivering results
Critical Thinking: Informed ideas and effective solutions
Collaboration: Teamwork and connection
Meta-Cognition: self-awareness and understanding on one's own thinking and learning process

What skills are students learning to prepare them for an AI-enhanced future? Will they still learn essential skills?

While AI can automate tasks and provide information, it cannot replicate the uniquely human and creative spirit.

As part of High School Reimagined, the Magic of Middle School, and the investment in core resources in literacy and math, Jeffco is preparing students by equipping them with the following durable skills.

Communication: Information exchange and management
Leadership: Directing efforts and delivering results
Critical Thinking: Informed ideas and effective solutions
Collaboration: Teamwork and connection
Meta-Cognition: self-awareness and understanding on one's own thinking and learning process

Learn more about durable skills

Contact Us

Contact the Family Response Service Team (FRST) to have a technology ticket submitted on your behalf.