Frederick County school board to review first formal AI policy
The proposed FCPS policy would allow artificial intelligence in schools under rules focused on education, privacy, safety, academic integrity and human oversight.
HERE'S WHAT WE KNOW
This would be FCPS’ first official AI policy. AI would be permitted only for clear educational or operational purposes. The policy emphasizes privacy, safety, academic integrity and human oversight. FCPS plans to introduce AI literacy lessons and guidance for students. An advisory group would help monitor implementation. Local school systems face an Oct. 22 deadline to adopt AI guidance.
Frederick County Public Schools is preparing to review its first formal policy governing artificial intelligence in classrooms and school operations.
The Board of Education is scheduled to hold a first reading of the proposed policy, which would allow AI use only when it supports clear educational or operational goals and meets standards for privacy, safety, academic integrity and human oversight.
Although FCPS has not previously had an official AI policy, teachers and students are already using the technology. The district has also created age-based student guides and family resources explaining responsible AI use.
The proposed policy states that AI should enhance, not replace, educator judgment. It also says AI use must protect students and staff, maintain data security, preserve academic integrity and comply with state and federal law.
FCPS also plans to introduce AI literacy lessons and draft “AI Scales” designed to help students understand when and how AI can appropriately be used. The school system is considering Google Gemini within its existing Google environment, although the proposed policy does not officially endorse any particular AI tool.
The policy would require the superintendent to create regulations and form an advisory group made up of teachers, administrators, students and community members. Areas to be addressed include equity, access, data security, academic integrity, staff training, student AI literacy and procurement.
The policy is also being developed in response to Maryland’s Artificial Intelligence Ready Schools Act. Local school systems have until Oct. 22 to adopt AI guidance after receiving state direction in June.
WHAT IT MEANS
FCPS is moving from informal guidance to a formal set of rules for AI in schools. The policy aims to allow useful technology while preventing AI from replacing teacher judgment, undermining student work or creating privacy and security concerns.
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