Shaping the Future of AI in Education: A Panel for K-12 Leaders

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world around us, and education is no exception. From personalized learning to automated grading, AI is already making its mark in the classroom. But what does the future hold for AI in education? And how can school leaders ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically to support student success?

This webinar features a panel of K-12 leaders and members of Otus' AI Advisory Board who shared practical insights on how AI is transforming education today and what the future holds, including:

  • Real-world examples of how schools are using AI.
  • Expert predictions on the future of AI in education.
  • Strategies to implement AI tools responsibly.

Watch the full recording below:

 

Three Key Takeaways from Our Panel of AI Experts

1. AI Should Amplify, Not Replace, Educators’ Impact

As Caitlin Wellsen, Instructional Technology Coordinator at Wood Dale School District 7, shared during the webinar, “AI should be used to support learning, not define it.” When implemented thoughtfully, AI can streamline time-consuming tasks like lesson planning and grading while providing teachers with deeper insights into student learning. By removing administrative burdens, educators can focus more on building relationships, fostering creativity, and personalizing instruction.

 "Our philosophy centers on the belief that AI in education is not about replacing human judgment or human connection, but it's about amplifying our educators' impact, empowering student voices, and also personalizing learning experiences." 

Dr. Michael Lubelfeld

Superintendent
,
North Shore School District 112 (IL)

2. Professional Development and Ethical Guardrails Are Critical

For AI to be effectively integrated into schools, professional learning must be purposeful, ongoing, and accessible. Many educators are still developing AI literacy, making intentional professional development and clear ethical guidelines essential. Schools are ensuring that AI training aligns with district goals, instructional priorities, and responsible use policies, so teachers feel confident in applying AI in ways that enhance, rather than disrupt, learning.

"We really value coherence across the organization... and that is how we are approaching AI as well. We make sure that our instructional leaders, district administrators, coaches, and teachers are all getting aligned professional learning—so that AI is integrated into what we are already doing, not treated as something separate."

Dr. Adrienne Usher

Assistant Superintendent
,
Bullitt County Public Schools (KY)

3. AI Supports Personalization, But Purpose Comes First

AI has incredible potential to make personalized learning more efficient and scalable, but its use must be grounded in strong instructional practices. Rather than chasing every new AI tool, educators should start with clear learning goals and leverage AI to support them. District leaders emphasized the importance of re-examining grading policies, assignments, and instructional strategies to ensure that AI is used to enhance, not undermine, deep learning and critical thinking.

“For us, AI is just like any other tool—it’s not about chasing the next big thing, but about using it intentionally to support learning. We need to stay focused on the essential skills and competencies we want students to develop, so they can adapt to whatever comes next.”

Neil Wetherbee

Superintendent
,
Northport Public Schools (MI)

How Otus AI Helps Educators Stay Focused on What Matters

Otus AI is designed to support educators, not replace them. Built directly into Otus, this AI-powered question and answer tool helps teachers quickly identify learning gaps, create targeted instructional strategies, and communicate with families more efficiently—all while prioritizing student privacy.

 

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