Artificial intelligence is here to stay. Montana's schools should lead, not follow | Susie Hedalen

That is why the Montana Office of Public Instruction, in partnership with the Montana Digital Academy, developed the Montana Artificial Intelligence Guidelines for K-12 schools. We released the first version last year, and an updated version was just released. These guidelines are designed to help schools embrace innovation while protecting what matters most: student learning.

AI has tremendous potential in education when used thoughtfully. It can personalize instruction, allowing students to learn at a pace that fits them. It can give teachers more time to focus on students by reducing repetitive administrative work. It helps students with disabilities access learning in new ways and create engaging, real-world learning experiences that build problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

But we should not pretend AI is without risks.

Artificial intelligence can produce inaccurate information, reinforce bias, and raise legitimate concerns about student privacy. If students become overly dependent on AI, they risk missing opportunities to develop essential skills like writing, critical thinking and effective communication. We must also recognize that not every student has equal access to technology, and we cannot allow AI to widen existing educational gaps.

That's why Montana's approach is built on balance, not fear and not blind acceptance.

AI should never replace great teachers. It should never replace human relationships or independent thinking. Instead, it should serve as another educational tool, like calculators, computers and the internet did before it. The key is ensuring students learn how to use AI ethically, responsibly, and only when it supports learning rather than replacing it.

Our updated AI guidance reflects that philosophy. It provides educators with practical guardrails while giving schools the flexibility to meet the needs of their communities. It encourages appropriate age use, emphasizes digital citizenship, protects student privacy, and reminds us that human judgment must always come first.

Montana has never been afraid to embrace innovation while holding on to our values. We can prepare students for careers that may not yet exist without sacrificing the fundamentals of education. We can equip them with the tools of tomorrow while continuing to teach responsibility, integrity and critical thinking.

Artificial intelligence is not the future. It is the present. If we guide its use wisely, Montana students won't simply adapt to a changing world, they will be prepared to lead it.