Artificial intelligence has been rapidly changing the K-12 education landscape—from providing opportunities for personalized learning to assisting with nonteaching tasks. As the new school year kicks into gear, how do educators expect to see AI incorporated into their school and classes?

EdWeek reporting shows that not many schools have policies in place to guide AI use just yet, although it’s a top-of-mind issue for educators and policymakers. According to a recent survey of state education technology officials, 40% of respondents said their states had released AI guidance, and supporting professional development on the issue was a top priority.

Additionally, educators remain divided on whether AI should be used in the classroom at all. There is concern among some educators about how AI may affect students’ critical thinking skills, as well as their ability to experiment and learn.

Still, most educators feel as if the use of AI in education is inevitable. In an informal Education Week LinkedIn poll with 700 votes, 87% of respondents said AI will affect the classroom, and 7% said it would not.

Educators shared more details about their opinions on AI’s impact in the comment section. Here are some of their responses, edited lightly for clarity.

Some educators fear AI will have a negative impact

Other educators are embracing AI

Redhill School will host its first Redefine Education Conference Oct. 17–19 at its Early Learning Centre in Sandton, bringing together educators, parents, and experts to explore child-centred learning and the role of technology in classrooms.

The event will feature keynote speeches, workshops, and research presentations on artificial intelligence in schools, future skills, arts integration, and learner-led environments. International speaker Heramb Kulkarni will discuss AI and innovation inspired by Finland.

“Our goal is to provide educators with tools and ideas they can apply immediately,” said Joseph Gerassi, executive head of Redhill School.

Workshops will cover neuroplasticity, generative AI, and creating spaces that promote learner agency. Participants will also network with teachers, leaders, and policymakers shaping South Africa’s education future.

Tickets are limited and available online. For more information and speaker profiles, visit the Redhill School website.

Redhill School Email: mroff@redhill.co.za | Phone: 082 390 2765

We are hoping to facilitate conversations between people of different generations talking about certain topics. We would love to speak to a gen Z and baby boomer art teacher. If you’re an art teacher from these generations and you’d like to speak to us about your experience, we’d like to hear from you.

What has it been like working as an art teacher? What do you like about your job? What challenges have there been in your work?