AI in Schools: More Than Just a Fad→

Hadi Parvoti, CEO of code.org, on the future outlook of curriculum and instruction in a world where Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models like ChatGPT are commonplace:

"In five years I'm quite confident that our school system will recognize not only that these tools are here to stay but that teaching kids how to be amazing problem solvers, critical thinkers, and collaborators using these digital tools is going to be a key part and reason for education."

Just as calculators revolutionized how we teach math—enabling us to go beyond basic arithmetic to explore higher-level concepts—AI is set to expand the horizons of what's possible in the classroom. It's not about sidelining teachers or making students overly reliant on technology. It's about leveraging these tools to enhance the educational experience.

What Parvoti is talking about is a shift from a knowledge-based model to a skills-based model. One where we're not ditching the classics; we're giving them a 21st-century update so that we can equip students with the skills they need to navigate a world where digital literacy isn't optional; it's essential.

Aligning Classroom Practices with Community Aspirations for Deeper Learning

Yesterday, I shared the BCPS Graduate Profile video, describing what the Bay City community collectively wants for graduates. Today, I want to share its companion video describing our Deeper Learning initiative, where theory becomes part of our teaching practice.

By aligning instruction with the skills and values our community holds dear, we create a more cohesive and effective educational experience. This isn't just about ticking boxes on a standard assessment; it's about synchronizing our educational goals with real-world needs and expectations. When every stakeholder, from teachers and administrators to parents and community leaders, is on the same page, that's when we see transformative growth in our students.

Graduate Profile: How Community Engagement Can Shape the Future

This video encapsulates the collective vision we're building for Bay City Public Schools. It represents extensive community engagement—listening sessions, business summits, parent roundtables, you name it. I love how the video describes our graduate profile through voices in our community.

Leading this work has been so rewarding. It's the embodiment of what I've always believed: that when schools and communities align, magic happens. We're not just aiming for academic benchmarks; we're nurturing problem-solvers, communicators, and critical thinkers. This is about efficiency, yes, but it's also about effectiveness—about making sure our educational system is as agile and adaptable as the world our students will enter. When we listen to our community, we're not just being inclusive; we're unlocking the doors to innovation and long-term success.