Dear Families,

We are living in a time when artificial intelligence is becoming a regular part of everyday life — and education is no exception. At Roanoke County Public Schools, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure students learn to use these tools thoughtfully and responsibly while continuing to develop the critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Our approach to AI aligns with the C-Change Framework and our commitment to preparing every student to be Opportunity Ready.

RCPS is committed to reducing the impact of cognitive offloading — when students rely on tools to do the thinking for them instead of engaging in the learning process. When students use AI to generate answers, write responses, or complete tasks on their behalf, they miss critical opportunities to practice skills, build confidence, and deepen understanding. AI should support thinking, not replace it. Students should first demonstrate their own understanding, then use AI to extend, refine, and elevate their work.

To provide clear, consistent expectations, our teachers assign assessed tasks one of three AI Learning Zones. Before work begins, students are told which zone applies. If no zone is specified, students should always assume Zone 0 — no AI use.

Academic integrity matters. Submitting AI-generated work as one’s own when a Zone 0 assignment has been given — or failing to cite AI use in Zones 1 or 2 — falls under our Student Created Work Policy. We encourage students to make ethical choices, ask questions when they are unsure, and always use AI in ways that strengthen rather than shortcut their learning.

Thank you for partnering with us as we prepare students to be thoughtful, independent learners who can navigate and use modern tools wisely. If you have questions about AI expectations or classroom practices, please feel free to reach out.

Questions? Visit www.rcps.us for more information about AI in RCPS.