Cascade’s New AI Policy: Balancing Innovation and Academic Integrity

 Student Avery Houghton (12) poses with ChatGPT open on her computer. Photo credit: Mylee Hobbs (12) 

On October 29, 2025, the Cascade School District implemented a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy, addressing a gap in guidance for students on AI usage. Previously, Cascade did not have a formal AI policy. The updated policy allows students to use AI tools responsibly but strictly prohibits using them to complete assignments in ways considered plagiarism or academic dishonesty. 

“Artificial Intelligence has become an increasingly important part of our lives, and it is essential for students to understand when and how to use it effectively and ethically. AI tools can enhance classroom learning, and their implementation should be guided with proper training, ethical considerations, and responsible oversight. When utilizing generative AI tools to create or support texts or creative works, students are expected to adhere to these guidelines, and any additional guidance provided by their classroom teacher,” said Principal James Swanson. 

The policy was developed in response to concerns about misuse, including having AI write English essays, cheating on tests, or bypassing critical thinking tasks.  

“I think it has certain effects. Instead of students asking questions, they just use AI, which doesn’t allow them to think on their own. There are small tasks that AI can help with, but it can’t eliminate its bias, and it’s not always factual,” said English teacher Ms. Rosenfield. 

Consequences for inappropriate AI use are significant. They may include suspension, termination of employment (for staff), civil or criminal action if warranted, or failing the assignment or class in which AI was misused.  

“AI has made students take their work less seriously because they think, ‘Why do your work if something else will do it in seconds?’ It’s affecting attention spans and analytical skills,” said senior Gretchen Leach (12). 

Despite concerns, AI also offers benefits when used appropriately. In classrooms where teachers permit its use—such as Leadership or Publications—AI can assist with brainstorming creative ideas, drafting emails, summarizing information, and grammar checking. 

“I think AI is helpful for summarizing information, gathering more details, checking grammar, and completing work faster. It has positively affected me by helping me understand concepts more quickly,” said Micah Wilder (12). 

Currently, enforcement of the policy depends on individual teachers, who set specific rules for AI use in their classrooms. Cascade administrators hope the policy will encourage students to complete their personal work independently, fostering academic growth.

“Personally, what I hope we see at CHS is the utilization of the technology as a support rather than simply doing the work for the student. It is easy to ask AI to write an essay for you, but that bypasses the process of investigating, researching, and writing from your own original thoughts. AI can be a powerful tool, but without self-regulation, it can do most of the work for you,” said Swanson. 

Cascade’s new AI policy represents a step toward balancing the innovative potential of technology with the need to preserve academic integrity

Cascade’s new AI policy represents a step toward balancing the innovative potential of technology with the need to preserve academic integrity, critical thinking, and personal growth for students.