This AI Policy Template from the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) released in June 2024, provides guidance for Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in Alabama to develop and implement AI policies in K-12 education. The document emerged from the ALSDE AI Summit in November 2023 and subsequent sessions, representing a collaborative effort among various education stakeholders.

Key Areas Covered:

1. Eight foundational pillars: Strategy, Governance, Data Privacy and Security, Procurement, Implementation, Competency Development, Risk Management, and Utility and Effectiveness

2. Clear definitions of AI terminology and systems

3. Comprehensive guidance on AI usage in educational settings

4. Data privacy and security compliance requirements

5. Procurement and implementation guidelines

6. Risk management framework based on NIST standards

7. Detailed rules for responsible AI use by all stakeholders

Unique Aspects:

1. Alabama-specific context: The template is tailored to Alabama's educational system, with input from diverse stakeholders including the Governor's office, state education associations, and local education agencies.

2. Strong emphasis on human oversight:

- Explicitly states that AI systems will supplement, not replace, human instruction

- Requires human verification of AI-generated content and grading

- Mandates human-in-the-loop development in AI systems

3. Detailed data protection measures:

- Includes specific contract language for AI vendors (Appendix A)

- Prohibits unauthorized use of school data for training new AI models

- Requires explicit documentation and approval processes for any AI system training

4. Implementation accountability:

- Requires establishment of AI Governance Committees

- Mandates regular compliance audits

- Requires corrective action plans for any identified issues

5. Comprehensive usage guidelines:

- Clear rules for citing AI use

- Verification requirements for AI-generated content

- Process for contesting AI-generated grades

- Restrictions on AI-powered surveillance and behavioral tracking

The template stands out for its practical approach to AI integration while maintaining strong protections for student data and emphasizing the primacy of human judgment in education.

VIEW FULL GUIDANCE