Position Papers

Executive Summary

As education evolves in the digital age, the PD365 reaffirms its commitment to fostering critical thinking and ethical integration of technology. Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents promising opportunities to personalize learning and support data-informed instruction, but without thoughtful guidance, it may undermine the development of student agency, equity, and intellectual independence. This position paper advocates for an intentional, educator-led approach to AI in classrooms, ensuring that these tools enhance—not replace—students' development as creative, ethical, and critical thinkers.

PD365 realizes that the state of Illinois is experiencing a teacher shortage in many academic and specialized areas. The number of persons who are securing their teaching licenses has been decreasing over the years. In June 2019, the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS) sent out surveys about that issue to all 858 school districts and 527 responded. The survey revealed 20 percent of open positions in those districts remain unfilled.