Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the world our students are preparing to enter and the Sioux Falls School District is taking thoughtful, proactive steps to ensure both staff and students are ready.
In the latest episode of Spotlight: Conversations from the Sioux Falls School District, we take a closer look at how AI is being approached across SFSD. High School Social Studies Instructional Coach Sarah Burkett, who helps coordinate AI conversations for the district, explains why AI literacy matters and how the district has developed guidance focused on ethical use, data privacy, and keeping educators at the center of the learning process. Rather than creating rigid policies for a constantly evolving technology, the district is emphasizing flexibility, critical thinking, and responsible use.
The episode also features real-world examples from classrooms. At Laura B. Anderson Elementary, first grade teacher Nicole Larson shares how AI helps streamline planning tasks, analyze anonymized student data, and spark creative lesson ideas. At Jefferson High School, English teacher Michelle Wheeler describes how she uses AI to design standards-aligned lessons, differentiate for multilingual learners, and teach students how to use AI tools responsibly through clearly defined classroom expectations.
Throughout the conversation, one theme remains clear: AI is a tool. By focusing on AI literacy, ethical use, and the importance of human connection, SFSD is preparing students for the future while staying grounded in what matters most: strong relationships and meaningful learning experiences.