Working Educators has always taken positions on issues that affect our profession and our students. We believe clarity matters — teachers deserve to know where we stand.
Legacy Context
This page continues our tradition of public position statements. Like our earlier statements on police violence, immigrant rights, and education funding, these positions reflect our values as working educators.
On AI in Education
Teachers should lead the AI conversation
Decisions about AI in classrooms should be informed by teachers — not just administrators, tech companies, or policymakers. We have the daily experience of navigating these challenges. Our voices should matter.
AI is neither uniformly good nor bad
We reject both uncritical techno-optimism and reflexive techno-phobia. AI tools can help teachers teach and harm students' learning, depending on how they're used. Nuance matters.
Students need AI literacy
Banning AI from education doesn't prepare students for a world where AI is ubiquitous. Schools should teach students how AI works, its limitations, and how to use it ethically and effectively.
On Academic Integrity
Integrity is about learning, not compliance
The goal of academic integrity isn't catching cheaters — it's fostering authentic learning. When we focus only on detection, we miss the point.
Detection tools are imperfect
AI detection software has significant false positive rates. No student should be punished based solely on algorithmic judgment. Human review and due process are essential.
Clear policies prevent harm
Students and teachers need clear, consistent policies about what AI use is permitted. Ambiguity creates anxiety and injustice.
On Equitable AI Detection
Bias in AI tools is a justice issue
AI detection tools have documented biases against non-native English speakers and certain writing styles. This isn't a technical glitch — it's an equity issue that disproportionately harms marginalized students.
Students deserve due process
Accusations of AI cheating can derail academic careers. Students must have clear appeals processes and the presumption of innocence.
Transparency is non-negotiable
Students should know what detection tools are being used, how they work, and what happens if they're flagged. Hidden surveillance erodes trust.
On Teacher Professional Development
AI training should be mandatory and funded
Teachers cannot navigate AI without support. States and districts should provide funded, ongoing professional development on AI literacy.
Teachers should design AI training
The best AI training comes from educators who understand classroom realities — not vendors selling products or administrators who haven't taught in years.
On Education Policy
Policy should follow evidence, not panic
AI in education requires thoughtful policy, not reactive bans or mandates. We support evidence-based approaches that consider unintended consequences.
Teacher voice in policy is essential
No AI education policy should be adopted without meaningful input from classroom teachers. We're the ones who implement policy — we should help shape it.
Questions? Disagreements?
These positions reflect our current thinking. We're always learning and willing to reconsider. If you disagree or have evidence we should consider, reach out.
Contact Us