PVMS AI Rollout: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the school introducing AI to students now?
A: The reality is that students are already interacting with these tools in their daily lives, often without guidance. If we ignore this shift, we leave students to navigate it in the "shadows," which often leads to the misconception that "AI = Cheating".
By introducing it officially, we can control the narrative. We are shifting the mindset from using AI to do the work for them, to using AI as a tool to help them think. Much like schools had to teach "Information Literacy" when Search Engines arrived 25 years ago, today we must teach "AI Literacy"4.
Q: What exactly is the "AI Bootcamp"?
A: This is a 4-day introductory program for 7th and 8th-grade students only. It will take place during Eagle Period the week of December 15th.
We are not teaching students how to use AI to write essays. Instead, the curriculum focuses strictly on critical thinking and responsibility. The four days cover:
Day 1: What is AI?
Day 2: The AI Brain & How It’s Trained
Day 3: AI Bias & "Hallucinations" (Why AI can be wrong)
Day 4: AI Ethics & Responsibility
Day 5: NotebookLM release
Q: What tool will students be using? Is it safe?
A: We have selected Google NotebookLM for this rollout. We chose this specifically because it is safer than open tools like ChatGPT.
It is "Grounded": Unlike ChatGPT, which pulls from the entire open internet, NotebookLM only interacts with documents the teacher provides.
Teacher Control: This allows teachers to curate the source material, turning the AI into a helpful "Research Assistant" rather than an "Essay Writer".
Q: Will this replace traditional writing or "pen and paper" work?
A: Absolutely not. Our philosophy is "Human-First Learning." Our emphasis remains on pen-and-paper for the majority of academic tasks to ensure authentic assessment15.
We are not looking to automate student work; we are looking to teach students how to verify information and think critically about technology. AI will not replace the teacher or the student's voice; it simply shifts our focus from grading the final product to grading the process of thinking16.
Q: What about 6th Grade students?
A: 6th-grade students will not be introduced to AI during this December rollout. We believe in a developmentally appropriate approach to technology. While 7th and 8th graders are ready to begin these discussions, we are reserving the introduction for our younger students for a later date.
Q: Is my child required to use AI?
A: No one will be forced to use AI. If a student (or family) prefers to stick to 100% analog methods, they have our full support. We are simply providing a structured, safe environment for those who are ready to meet this technology responsibly.
