Overview
The VSBA Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI) was created by the Board of Directors at its August 14, 2025, meeting. As AI continues to evolve and influence educational environments, it is critical for VSBA to proactively assess its implications, opportunities, and challenges for teaching, learning, operations, and security. Establishing a taskforce allows for informed planning, policy development, and recommendations that align with best practices and ethical standards.
The Board approve the creation of an AI Taskforce to study and provide guidance on the integration, governance, and impact of AI in education and operational processes.
Primary Responsibilities of the AI Taskforce:
- Assess current and emerging AI technologies and their potential application in K-12 education.
- Identify opportunities for improved efficiency, instructional support, and student achievement.
- Develop recommendations for ethical and responsible use of AI, including data privacy and security considerations.
- Provide guidance on professional development needs for educators and staff related to AI implementation.
- Support drafting sample policy considerations for Board review.
Highlights
- The task force hosted a panel session titled Artificial Intelligence in Virginia’s Schools: A Panel on Impact and Governance during the VSBA March 2026 Hot Topic. The session included: AI & Innovation, AI Integration in the Classrooms, AI Policy Lessons, and AI in the Classroom – Student Perspective.
- VSBA Staff participate in a monthly AI Exchangecomprised of representatives of state associations
- Draft AI policies for task force review and participation are continuously reviewed and developed
- Developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) early bird session the 2026 Annual Conference
Task Force Members
Dr. Cardell Patillo, Task Force Chair
Portsmouth City Public Schools, School Board Member
Dr. Edward M. Shewbridge
Clarke County Public Schools, Director of Information Technology
Randy Riffle
Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, School Board Member
Keisha Tennessee
Virginia Department of Education, Office of Innovation, Computer Science Coordinator
Dr. Amy Cashwell
Henrico County Public Schools, Superintendent
Dr. Christopher M. Jones
Virginia Association for Teaching, Learning, and Leading, Executive Director, VATLL/VASCD
Karl Frisch
Fairfax County Public Schools, School Board Member
Janelle M. Lokey
Virginia School Boards Association, Director of Legal & Policy Services