AI Usage At Ridge High School: District Updates Rules, Guidelines

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Due to the rise in artificial intelligence(AI), the Bernards Township School District has clarified how students and staff can use AI applications within their academic curriculum.

Student representative MJ Chu provided an update on the guidelines at the Nov. 24 Board of Education meeting.

Chu said the district's technology department has blocked AI websites that are not authorized by Ridge High School, such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek. Currently, the following AIs approved are Gemini, Brisk AI, and Notebook LM AI.

"Students and teachers alike have recognized that AI can be a tool for academic growth rather than a substitute for hard work," said Chu.

For example, Chu said approved AI programs have been implemented in some classes, such as her AP Literature class.

"AI has been used to compile student notes, which assist students in forming connections and synthesizing analysis. It has also been used across math curriculums to create practice problems and ensure better support for students," said Chu.

Teachers will continue to look into AI usage to see how it impacts the school curriculum "to avoid the overuse of AI by both students as well as teachers and really maximize its benefit."

"For the time being, the partial implementation of these AI guidelines has increased efficiency and prevented overuse for both students and faculty alike," said Chu.

Additionally, the Ridge High School administration has also brought back Google Chats after a temporary ban due to student misconduct.

"The student body, as well as clubs who use Google Chats, are incredibly grateful for the app, which allows fast communication," said Chu. "It has been a period of reflection for students to be more prudent on what we put on our Google Chats and carry ourselves every day, especially in regard to cyberbullying."

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