Future-Ready, Ethically Grounded: Building AI Literacy in K–12 with Rachel Doty & Courtny Drydale

In this episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams is joined by digital learning specialists Rachel Doty and Courtny Drydale to talk about what responsible AI integration really looks like in K–12 schools. They share frontline lessons from leading district-wide AI work, emphasizing that effective implementation is less about the tools themselves and more about trust, transparency, and teacher leadership.​The conversation covers how to demystify AI fears, design ethical guardrails around data privacy and academic integrity, and confront bias in AI grading and detection tools—especially for English learners and neurodivergent students. Rachel and Courtny also outline frameworks districts can use to ensure equitable access and human-centered use of AI so that technology becomes a bridge, not a barrier, for diverse learners.​Key takeaways:Practical ways to build staff understanding and reduce fear as AI enters classrooms and district workflows.​Core ethical questions around privacy, cheating, and algorithmic bias—and why unchecked AI detectors can disproportionately harm multilingual and neurodivergent students.​Example frameworks and principles (equity, transparency, human oversight) that can guide district-wide AI policies and pilots.​How thoughtfully chosen AI tools can support English learners and neurodivergent students through personalization, scaffolds, and accessibility features.