Generative AI is quickly becoming part of students’ lives. They are encountering tools constantly on their phones, in image generation, in the news, and even in their own school work. As schools consider how to integrate these tools responsibly, it is essential that families are engaged as partners in the process. This discussion guide is designed to help school leaders and parents have informed, collaborative conversations about the opportunities, risks, and shared responsibilities of AI in education, ensuring that student safety, equity, and learning remain at the center. To support critical conversations, we have developed the School Leaders and Families Discussion Guide on Generative AI to support planned and purposeful conversations.
What’s the purpose of this discussion guide?
The purpose of the School Leaders and Families Discussion Guide on Generative AI is to help foster a welcoming and informed dialogue between school leaders and families about the opportunities, risks, and shared responsibilities of generative AI in education.
Part 1: Welcome and Framing the Conversation
Opening Statement (for the facilitator or school leader):
“Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, and others are becoming part of our children’s digital environment—at home, at school, and online. We want to ensure families have a voice in how these tools are introduced and used, so together we can support learning while keeping students safe, informed, and empowered.”
Suggested Norms:
- This is a space for shared learning—no technical expertise required.
- All questions and perspectives are welcome.
- Student well-being, equity, and integrity guide the discussion.
Part 2: Building Shared Understanding
Prompt 1 – What Is Generative AI?
- “Have you heard of generative AI tools? How are your children using or encountering them?”
Simple Explanation (if needed):
“Generative AI refers to tools that can create new content—such as text, images, or music—by recognizing patterns in large amounts of data. Examples include chatbots that write essays or apps that generate artwork or videos.”
Follow-up Prompts:
- “Have your children used any AI tools at home or for schoolwork?”
- “What questions or concerns do you have about these tools?”
Part 3: Exploring Benefits and Risks
Prompt 2 – Opportunities
- “Where do you see AI helping your child with learning or creativity?”
Examples to Explore:
- Personalized learning or tutoring support
- Writing, brainstorming, and research assistance
- Language translation or accessibility features
Prompt 3 – Concerns
- “What concerns do you have about your child’s use of AI?”
Possible Areas for Discussion:
- Inaccurate or biased information
- Academic honesty and plagiarism
- Exposure to unsafe or inappropriate content
- Privacy, security, and data collection
- Sharing private information, data, or even photographs of themselves
Part 4: School Policies and Family Roles
Prompt 4 – School Guidance
- “We want to share how our school is approaching AI use—and we’d value your input.”
Topics to Share:
- Current or developing school/district AI policies
- Expectations for students when using AI in assignments
- Teacher use of AI for planning or communication
- Safeguards to protect student privacy and data security
Prompt 5 – Family Partnership
- “How can we support you in guiding your child’s use of AI at home?”
Ideas to Explore:
- Hosting future workshops or tutorials for families
- Creating tip sheets for home conversations about AI
- Offering multilingual resources to ensure access
- Maintaining open channels for family feedback and concerns
Part 5: Closing and Next Steps
Prompt 6 – Shared Commitments
- “What can we commit to—together—to ensure students use AI in ways that are safe, ethical, and meaningful?”
Possible Actions:
- Form a joint advisory group on AI and digital tools
- Share lists of vetted, educational AI resources
- Provide families with regular updates on AI guidance and practices
- Continue hosting periodic family forums and Q&A sessions
“Our shared responsibility is to guide AI use in ways that protect students while also expanding their opportunities to learn, create, and thrive. By working together, we can help children navigate this technology responsibly and confidently.”
