AI is Not A Passing Trend

I had the opportunity to attend a conference on artificial intelligence (AI) in education this week.  For a long time, I’ve cautiously dabbled with AI, but I’ve never fully embraced it. This conference opened my eyes. I left with a new appreciation for how AI can create efficiencies in the workplace and help educators personalize learning, provide timely feedback, and differentiate assignments to support a wide range of student abilities.

AI can boost efficiency and productivity by streamlining processes and procedures that are normally quite time‑consuming, such as automating tasks, developing schedules, creating documentation, and retrieving information. Frankly, AI can do far more than I can even begin to describe in this area. There are many tools to consider, and we are looking into options that make sense for our setting.

Some of our staff have already used AI tools to develop professional documents, research content, and create instructional plans. A few months ago, the district took a major step by investing in an AI powered reading assistant and learning agent for fifth and sixth grade students to increase student literacy levels and achievement. This well‑researched tool, created by Carnegie Mellon, listens to students read and provides feedback on fluency, decoding, and comprehension. While Amira does not replace the need for a teacher, it extends their reach and ability to support a wide range of student learning needs.

AI literacy is becoming an increasingly important skill for both staff and students. AI is advancing rapidly and is infused into many aspects of our daily lives. We need to teach students how to use AI to maximize their learning potential and prepare them for success in a fast‑paced professional landscape.

Am I ready to throw caution to the wind and let ChatGPT dominate the entire academic arena, stopping students from learning to write or master mathematics? No, I am not. I am prepared to consider how we can use tools such as ChatGPT and others in an ethical, responsible, and critical manner as part of preparing students for their future success. We need appropriate boundaries and protocols in place to help students use AI to amplify their learning rather than misuse this powerful technology.

It is critically important to approach AI with caution and intentionality. We need to protect personally identifiable data and recognize that AI is not always accurate. These are necessary policy conversations that must be addressed as we use AI more in educational settings. Some of these discussions may be challenging, but it is important that we have them and put in place appropriate safeguards.

AI is not a passing trend, it is a powerful tool that is changing how we learn, work, and participate in education. We need to approach it responsibly, with clear expectations and policies to avoid potential pitfalls, while also embracing what AI has to offer. The purpose of AI in education is to enhance and maximize student learning and create efficiencies across our operations. And we must remember that, in addition to learning content, education is about communication and relationship building. Human interaction remains one of the most important aspects of what we do, whether students attend in person or online. The goal isn’t to replace teachers or diminish the value of essential skills; it is to prepare students for their future, knowing AI will be part of their daily lives.

 

 

Connections, Relationships, and Kindness

As we approach the next few months, we are surrounded by many religious, non-religious, and cultural celebrations. The season is also a wonderful reminder of the connections and opportunities we have to create memories with family and friends that last far beyond today. 

The nostalgia of the season can be meaningful, and honestly, many "golden" traditions and practices are simply for fun. As for me, I have spent years attempting to master the art of having a beautiful Christmas tree, but the fact remains that my sister’s and mom’s decor makes mine look a little whimpy. Still, it isn’t the tree that really makes the season bright. While I am not quite willing to stop working on making my tree shine, I do recognize that there are many opportunities to connect with people, build relationships, and be part of a community that will create lasting memories.

Sometimes, the stress of planning every detail can get in the way, so I hope you will take some time to avoid the busyness, let go of perfectionism, and simply enjoy the holidays and be present in the moment. Look around, find ways to engage, and reach out to others who may be trying to find some joy in the season. No one experiences the holidays in the same way, and they do not need to be a Hallmark moment to be worth celebrating! 

Whether it is reading a book to a child, playing a board game, sledding down a hill with friends, having a great conversation, volunteering together, attending a school activity or concert, or taking time to enjoy a meal together, these activities add to the richness of the celebrations and experiences. Taking time to journal or make a list of things you are grateful for is also a great way to shift your mindset when things do not seem to go quite as planned.   

While we are all unique in how we celebrate, let’s come together to build relationships, show kindness, and be generous in thought and deed this season. Kindness is a beautiful gift to give. 

Well wishes to you this season!

Planning Ahead & Winter Weather Updates

As we wrap up the first quarter and head into the winter months, we’re already planning for next school year. To help you prepare, the 2026–2027 district calendar is now available. Please use it to plan vacations, family events, and personal schedules well in advance.

 2026-2027 School Calendar

Weather-Related Schedule Changes

We’ve already experienced one late start due to fog, and as winter approaches, please know that every decision regarding cancellations, late starts, or early dismissals is made with serious consideration for the safety of our students and staff. 

While we strive to make decisions the night before, changing weather patterns and unpredictable storms sometimes make that impractical. Please plan ahead for days when cancellations or delays may occur.

What Announcements Mean

• 2-Hour Delay:

• All school activities, breakfast, and classes (including preschool) start two hours later than normal.

• Buses will arrive two hours later at designated locations.

• School Closed:

• There will be no school, no activities, and no preschool for the day.

• Early Dismissal:

• You or your emergency contact must be able to pick up your student from school or care for them at the bus drop-off.

• The district cannot provide childcare on these days, so please plan accordingly.

How You’ll Be Notified

• School Messenger: You will receive a call if you have signed up.

• If you have blocked text messages for other notifications, you will not receive weather alerts.

• Local Media: KMA typically posts updates on its website.

• District Social Media: Please refer to Shenandoah Community School District’s Facebook and Instagram accounts for official announcements.

• Important: The ShenBuzz feed is not a district account and should not be relied upon for accurate information.

Please keep in mind that our staff faces the same weather conditions you do, which means offices may open later and phones may not be answered immediately during severe weather.

Thank you for your understanding and flexibility as we prioritize safety during the winter months.

Let's Be the Support

Support comes in many forms. And sometimes, it looks like a can of soup, a box of cereal, or a warm pair of socks.

Our local food pantry is a lifeline for families facing food insecurity, and right now, they need us. Whether it’s a small donation or a full grocery bag, every contribution makes a difference.

Let’s be the support our community needs. Let’s show up with generosity and action. 

Here are some especially useful items:

Non-Perishable Food Items
Canned vegetables (green beans & corn) and fruits
Canned soups and stews
Peanut butter and jelly
Pasta and pasta sauce
Rice and boxed meals
Brownie, cake, or muffin mixes
Microwave popcorn
Cereal and oatmeal
Dry milk, canned milk, or shelf-stable milk
Cooking oil
Canned tuna or chicken
Instant potatoes
Au gratin or scalloped potatoes
Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa mix

Personal Care & Household Items
Toilet paper
Toothpaste and toothbrushes
Soap and shampoo
Feminine hygiene products
Laundry detergent
Dish Soap
Diapers and baby wipes

Seasonal Needs
Warm socks, gloves, and hats  (Clean)

Drop-off Location:  Each School Building
Deadline: Nov 12, 2025

Together, we can make sure no one in our community goes without. Let’s be the support.

Taking Time for the Conversation

The weather is turning, and it is unbelievable to me that we are now at the end of the first academic quarter. There is much to celebrate. Our students have done well, and that is a happy thought. Students and staff have settled into their routines. Classroom environments are becoming more comfortable and familiar, which, in turn, builds confidence in our students.

This week, we were pleased to welcome so many of you to school for parent-teacher conferences. While conversations about grades, academic plans, and schedules are essential, it is truly a delight to connect with students’ families. Shared conversations build relationships, foster understanding, and help teachers and families work together to support students and maximize their academic and social development. That is why we set aside time for these conversations. It’s about creating a partnership between home and school.

It’s been a great start, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. Thank you for your support and for taking the time for the conversation. It makes all the difference.

Honoring Our Principals During National Principals Month

October marks National Principals Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the dedicated leaders who work diligently to shape the culture, climate, and success of our schools. As I reflect on my years in education, I’m reminded of the exceptional men and women I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Each one brings a unique leadership style, but they share a common trait: a deep care for students, a commitment to staff, and a passion for supporting education.

I’m proud to work with the principals in our district. They are committed leaders who often sacrifice their personal time for the betterment of our students, staff, and community. Their leadership is valued and is immeasurable.

Please join me in celebrating:

• Jordan Newberg, Elementary Principal
• Luke Buttry, Middle School Principal
• Tyson Ratliff, High School Principal
• Denise Green, Principal of IGNITE Online and Personalized Learning School

To Mr. Newberg, Mr. Buttry, Mr. Ratliff, and Mrs. Green—thank you for your leadership. You make a difference. I applaud you and appreciate you.

It Takes All of Us

In our district, every student deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported. Bullying and harassment have no place in our schools, and we remain committed to fostering a positive school culture and climate.

To strengthen these efforts, we’ve welcomed Chris Chamberlain as our new Peer Relations and Bullying Prevention Coordinator. Mr. Chamberlain is currently teaching a middle school rotation class focused on peer relations and bullying prevention, coordinating events across the district, and investigating complaints in a fair-minded manner. He has also partnered with M.A.Y. Mentoring to organize several events this month, including an upcoming student assembly featuring Terrence Talley, a nationally recognized speaker.

We are excited about the momentum building around this work—but it cannot be done by one person or one program alone. It takes all of us.

As adults, we must model the behaviors we want to see in our students. That means demonstrating respectful interactions, resolving conflicts constructively, and being mindful of the power of our words. Words can build up or tear down. We must choose to use them to make a positive impact. When we witness bullying or harassment, we need to speak up, offer support, and take reasonable action to protect students.  

We are also proud to offer Project HOPE, which supports students’ mental health needs, and grateful to SIEF for providing financial support to train our staff in best practices for prevention and response.

Let’s commit to doing this work together.