Westford Public Schools are developing a new guidance system for the use of artificial intelligence in classrooms, including a system designed to help teachers communicate when students may use AI.
The School Committee discussed the draft guidance during its Aug. 31 meeting as part of an update on professional development and in preparation for the 2026-27 school year.
A group of Westford administrators and teachers worked with educators from across Massachusetts to develop the district’s initial guidance on AI use. The work was led locally by Instructional Technology Supervisor Lisa Sanderson.
Superintendent Christopher Chew said the document outlines the district’s overall philosophy toward artificial intelligence and connects its use to Westford Public Schools’ core values.
The guidance also incorporates what was described as a “stoplight system using red, yellow and green” designations to give teachers a straightforward way to communicate expectations to students.
The district continues to collect feedback before removing the document’s draft designation, particularly to determine whether the guidance works effectively across different grade levels.
Chew said the district wants educators to understand how to appropriately use emerging technology while also helping students navigate its use.
The training is intended to help educators understand how to use the technology effectively and appropriately and how to address its use among students.
The district’s AI guidance was developed through participation in a statewide effort. Officials said grant funding helped support Westford’s initial participation in the program.
The district has been invited to continue participating, though additional grant support would be necessary for Westford to remain involved.
The AI work is part of a broader professional development effort this school year that also includes Universal Design for Learning, curriculum-specific training, English learner education and educator evaluation.
Officials said the district is shifting some of its professional development toward individual content areas after spending recent years emphasizing districtwide universal design for learning practices.
The draft AI guidance is expected to be shared with School Committee members as the district continues reviewing feedback before finalizing the document.
