I am banning student AI use this year

While many high school language arts teachers are incorporating AI tools like ChatGPT into their classrooms for brainstorming and feedback, Chanea Bond is taking a different approach this school year. 

Contrary to the trend, the Texas educator stated on X to her 60,000 followers that she will implement a no-AI-use policy, with zero tolerance for violations. 

Her announcement generated significant attention, reaching over 100,000 views.

“AI is capable of more than just writing for students—brainstorming, organizing, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and feedback,” argued one educator in response. Bond stands firm in disallowing such uses, emphasizing the importance of students developing those skills themselves. 

Bond’s rationale stems from the belief that students outsourcing their idea generation and initial drafting to AI undermines the essential literacy skills of creativity, originality, and critical thinking.

She contends that authentic, self-generated ideas are foundational in student writing, stressing the significance of nurturing those ideas rather than relying on external sources like AI.

Bond’s decision to ban AI usage is rooted in her concern that students are neglecting fundamental writing competencies when relying on AI for assignments.

In a recent dialogue with Bond, she shed light on her journey as an English teacher, the motivations behind her AI prohibition, and the ongoing discourse within the education community regarding her stance.

ANDREW BORYGA: How long have you been teaching high school English?

CHANEA BOND: Over the past nine years, I’ve primarily taught freshmen and sophomores English. However, this academic year, I am instructing upperclassmen in college composition, American literature, and AP Lit.

BORYGA: What aspects of your job do you find most fulfilling?

BOND: Despite its cliché nature, what I cherish most are the students. Witnessing students—particularly those from marginalized communities—engage with texts and develop profound ideas is immensely rewarding for me.

BORYGA: What key skills are you aiming to impart to your students in terms of writing and articulating their thoughts?

BOND: Central to my teaching philosophy is encouraging students to fully express their ideas before soliciting external input. Clarity and precision in argumentation are essential, prompting students to consider if their written words accurately convey their intended message.