For some, the future has arrived in the form of a newly approved charter school in Arizona that incorporates artificial intelligence. ### Key Information: During the December 2024 meeting of the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools, members gave their approval to Unbound Academy, an online charter school that leverages AI for instruction. "Our teachers continue to play an essential role, but they aren't tasked with delivering academic content, as AI excels in that area, " explained Ivy Xu from the school. Xu mentioned that this teaching approach has been trialed with hundreds of students in Texas, leading to a shortened school day since AI effectively customizes learning for each individual. "Because everything is tailored specifically for the student, core academic learning only takes about 2 to 2. 5 hours each day, " Xu noted. Following the structured academic period, students participate in a life skills program that focuses on their personal interests. "This gives students the chance to explore areas often reserved for the workplace, which they typically only encounter after graduation, " remarked Kristin Mann. As for class sizes, Xu indicated they would align with those found in public schools. Currently, the school serves grades 4 through 8, with enrollment limited to a few hundred students for the upcoming school year. ### The Controversy Surrounding AI in Teaching: The use of AI in education has sparked debate. **Contrasting Views:** Officials from the nation’s largest teachers’ union recognize that AI can enhance educational experiences.

However, there are concerns about the prevailing state of the technology, emphasizing the need for human involvement to remain central to teaching and learning. When asked about teacher involvement in AI-based learning, Xu responded affirmatively. "There will undoubtedly be teachers, and we are hiring Arizona-certified educators, as well as equivalently certified personnel from other regions, " Xu stated. Board members also raised queries regarding the safety of student data with the new charter school. "How do you ensure data protection?What measures are in place to ensure every student’s safety?" one board member inquired. A school official reassured them, saying, "We strictly comply with all Federal regulations, including FERPA and privacy standards. " ### Future Plans: In addition to the existing program, school officials have also introduced a separate AI-based school that will operate as a dual-language institution.