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Something new comes along for education almost every month—a new way to do math, a better way to analyze the data, and, of course, AI-related tools. While the teacher in the classroom forming personal relationships with students can’t be replaced, it’s almost impossible for them to provide immediate feedback for every student, every moment.

That’s where AI tools can help, according to educators and leaders during the edLeader Panel “Boost Student Improvement and Rigor Districtwide with AI-Supported Instruction.” Using Hanover Community School Corporation (IN) as a case study, they offered strategies for using AI as an instructional aide.

Be Vocal About What AI Won’t Replace

Before even starting the research for AI, administrators were clear that they did not see AI taking over the role of the classroom teacher. They wanted to show that they understood the value of in-person lessons, motivation, and evaluation. This helped make teachers allies in the process.

Agree on the “Why”

Also before research began, the leaders wanted concrete reasons for investigating an AI tool for use across the district, because teachers are often asked to do more, to use the latest, cool tech, without a clear why. Having a shared, codified understanding focused their investigations and gave them a framework for success. In the case of Hanover, they were specifically looking to help students improve on the SAT, as the exam is part of a graduation requirement in Indiana.

Design the System Before You Implement It

As a districtwide initiative, administrators needed to make sure that all schools had the resources to support the initiative, including people, technology, and time. They spent time working with the staff to determine the best platform and process so they could reach all students and provide them with the best possible experience.

In addition, they needed to put the right people in charge who understand how to use the data and how to help the kids achieve their goals. They also provided additional tech coaches to help teachers implement the program and address challenges. The panelists added to watch out for teachers wanting to choose their own programs—you need to streamline the process and use one program overall.

Develop Routines to Integrate the AI Tool Into the Classroom

While students may also access the AI tools at home, the teachers had to include AI in their classrooms. It doesn’t have to be an overwhelming amount, though; students could use the tool for 5-10 minutes, letting teachers walk around and provide insights as needed.

Make Motivating Students a Must

If students aren’t engaged with the tool, then they won’t use it, or they won’t use it well. For example, for ELA assignments, AI might provide feedback on how to revise a draft. If the students ignore the feedback, then it doesn’t matter if they use the AI tool or not. Hanover, for instance, uses competitions to spur student involvement.

Require Consistent Access to and Evaluation of the Data

One of the most beneficial aspects of educational technology is data showing student progress. In addition to students getting immediate feedback on their work, teachers should be able to track student skill mastery and adjust lessons as needed.

The leaders at Hanover work with the teachers to make sure they are tracking like data so that they can have fruitful conversations about student needs and ensure that they are all helping each student towards the same goal. By using common checkpoints, they are looking at the same signals instead of using individual teacher measures.

Communicate Constantly

Talk with teachers, students, and families as you develop the program. Get feedback from them once it’s implemented to talk about what’s working and what’s not. Tell your community about the benefits of the program, and make sure you celebrate successes.

Most importantly, constantly evaluate the program to make sure it’s meeting the initial goal. If you chose a system to fill a hole, then you need the evidence to prove that it’s doing that job. One of the most important measurements will be whether or not students can actually use the skills they learn from the AI program in other situations. When students’ skills transfer from one learning environment to the next, then they are truly on their way to mastery.

Learn more about this edWeb broadcast, Boost Student Improvement and Rigor Districtwide with AI-Supported Instruction, sponsored by Khan Academy Districts.

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Join the Community

Accelerate Learning is a free professional learning community that supports educators in meeting students where they are and helping them make meaningful, confident progress.

Khan Academy is a nonprofit organization with a simple mission: to provide a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. We create trusted, high-quality learning resources that help students build deep understanding, confidence, and a love of learning across subjects like math, science, and more.

Khan Academy Districts extends this mission by partnering with school systems to support teaching and learning at scale through AI-enhanced mastery learning. We work alongside district leaders and educators to provide standards-aligned content, actionable insights, and intelligent tools that help every student make progress—without adding burden to teachers.

Students learn at their own pace with support tailored to their needs, teachers gain clearer visibility into learning gaps, and districts benefit from a consistent, research-based approach to instructional improvement. Everything we build is grounded in educator input and real classroom needs, so schools can focus less on systems and more on helping every learner grow.

Article by Stacey Pusey, based on this edLeader Panel