Inside a Louisiana school grappling with the ethics of AI: 'We know kids are using it'
News September 05, 2025

Inside a Louisiana school grappling with the ethics of AI: 'We know kids are using it'

Rebecca Gaillot’s engineering class lit up like a Christmas tree last week as students pondered the ethics of artificial intelligence.

**Inside a Louisiana School Grappling with the Ethics of AI: 'We Know Kids Are Using It'**

The future is here, and it's raising some serious questions in Louisiana classrooms. Last week, Rebecca Gaillot's engineering class became a hotbed of discussion, illuminating the complex ethical considerations of artificial intelligence. The students weren't just learning about AI; they were wrestling with its implications in their own lives.

Gaillot, a forward-thinking educator, recognized the elephant in the room: her students are already using AI. From generating ideas for projects to even assisting with writing, the technology is readily accessible and increasingly tempting. This reality prompted Gaillot to shift the focus from simply learning about AI to critically examining its ethical dimensions.

The classroom buzzed with debate as students grappled with questions like: When is it acceptable to use AI for schoolwork? What constitutes plagiarism in the age of AI? And how can we ensure AI is used responsibly and ethically?

The conversation wasn't limited to academic integrity. Students also explored the broader societal impacts of AI, considering its potential effects on employment, bias in algorithms, and the spread of misinformation. These are weighty issues, and Gaillot believes it's crucial for her students to develop a nuanced understanding of them.

"We can't ignore the fact that AI is a powerful tool," Gaillot explained. "Our responsibility as educators is to equip students with the critical thinking skills to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. It's not about banning AI; it's about teaching them how to use it responsibly and ethically."

The school's approach reflects a growing awareness among educators nationwide. As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, schools are adapting their curricula to address the ethical challenges it presents. Gaillot's class serves as a microcosm of this larger trend, demonstrating a proactive effort to prepare students for a future where AI will play an increasingly significant role. The students' engagement and thoughtful reflections suggest that the next generation is ready to tackle the ethical complexities of this transformative technology. This early engagement is vital in shaping future AI developers, policymakers, and everyday users who understand the importance of ethical considerations in AI.
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