Dear Editor,
As an Ashland University student and former public-school graduate, I am concerned about Ashland City Schools implementing an AI policy for younger students.
While I understand the district’s desire to prepare local students for the future, introducing AI too early could potentially weaken foundational skills that students need to succeed in college.
In my experience as a college student, strong writing and critical thinking skills are essential for academic success.
At AU, professors expect students to be able to analyze information, develop original arguments, and express their own ideas clearly. These skills must be developed over years of practice, not replaced by technology that can generate answers immediately.
If students begin to rely on AI in grade school, they will struggle to build independence and the discipline required at a college level.
A better solution would be to focus on strengthening core academic skills like writing, reading comprehension, and problem solving without the help of AI.
Preparing students for the future should include teaching them to think for themselves, not encouraging early dependance on technology.
Emilie Parsons
Ashland, Ohio