Whereas, generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) workplace and educational tools have exploded onto the educational scene with few parameters or research-backed guidance; and

Whereas, generative AI has proven to be disruptive to the classroom setting; and educators are already overburdened with adopting new technology and lack fairly compensated work hours to complete their jobs; and

Whereas, profit-driven educational software companies are producing new educational technology at a rapid rate, and educational agencies are spending large budget amounts on consulting and software; and

there is no comprehensive federal legislation or regulations in the US that regulate the development and usage of AI; and

Whereas, the need for digital literacy training for educators and students is large, but paid training is minimal and often not in place; and

the deployment of AI tools raises ethical concerns about academic honesty, bias, perpetuated racism, and equitable access and or use; and

Whereas, AI is being used in educational settings with existing digital divides and may impact student opportunities and learning; and

Whereas, AI impact students’ abilities in critical thinking, creativity development, authenticity of thought, and or intellectual boundaries; and

Whereas, the CFT – A Union of Educators and Classified Professionals (CFT) acknowledges the transformative potential of AI in advancing education, research, and institutional operations; and

that generative AI-produced content is inherently biased and at times inaccurate; and

Whereas, all institutions should prioritize the responsible use of AI to enhance and support, rather than replace, human expertise, using principles of ethical integration and transparency; and

Whereas, any use of AI in the educational setting should always prioritize student equity and well-being; and

Whereas, it is imperative that the use of generative AI does not cause harm to students, educational staff, or workers; and

Whereas, it is essential that human interaction remains at the core of the educational experience, and the best use of AI technology is to support, and not replace, educators or staff;

Therefore, be it resolved, that CFT:

1. Recognizes that generative AI will never replace human educators’ unique and essential role in the classroom, or the critical thinking processes that students must develop;
2. advocates for educator input and consent regarding decisions made around the inclusion (or not) of AI in the educational setting, and such inclusion will comprise of robust human oversight of any generative AI produced content;
3. sponsor legislation that defines any entity or individual working directly with students, such as teachers, counselors, bus drivers, disability service providers, librarians, or any other capacity, must be a natural person;
4. urge the state of California to conduct a scientific research study on both positive and negative effects of generative AI in the education settings; and
5. actively advocate for AI policies, practices, and regulations that prioritize the well-being and safety of all workers, students, and individuals in the educational environment

Submitted by the Educational Technology Committee