Artificial Intelligence at the CDSBEO

Supporting safe, ethical, and innovative learning through a Catholic lens.

At the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO), we are committed to creating learning environments where students can explore new technologies with confidence, curiosity, and responsibility. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly present in education and daily life, we are dedicated to ensuring its use reflects our Catholic values, supports student well-being, and enhances learning.

Our approach is guided by:

Our Approach to AI

Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool that is already part of many everyday digital experiences. At CDSBEO, AI is used as an opportunity to support student creativity, problem-solving, and exploration – when used safely and responsibly.

We are committed to helping students understand:

  • What AI is and how it works
  • How to use AI to enhance learning
  • When AI use is appropriate, and when it is not
  • How to think critically about information produced by AI
  • How to protect their personal information and act with integrity online
  • How to acknowledge use of, and reference AI

Our focus is always on maintaining the human element of learning: the relationships, conversations, curiosity, and critical thinking that shape the student experience.

Guiding Principles for AI Use at CDSBEO

Protecting students and staff is our highest priority.

When using AI tools, we require that:

  • No personal or identifying information is ever entered into AI systems
  • Staff and students use board approved tools
  • Educators model responsible digital practices
  • Families and students understand where and how AI may be used in learning

Transparency is essential. Students should always know when AI is being used and why.

Technology use in our board is rooted in our call to Digital Discipleship – using digital tools in ways that reflect empathy, kindness, dignity, and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Students learn to:

  • Communicate respectfully online
  • Use technology in ways that support well‑being
  • Think critically about digital content
  • Understand their digital footprint
  • Make ethical choices when using AI tools

Each year, all students K–12 review and acknowledge the Responsible Use of Technology Agreement, reinforcing the expectations that guide safe and respectful online interactions.

AI is a support, not a substitute, for student thinking.

Students learn:

  • To use AI for brainstorming, outlining, or exploring ideas
  • To avoid using AI to produce final work
  • To disclose when AI has supported their learning
  • To ensure their work reflects their own voice and understanding

Academic integrity remains essential, and educators guide students in understanding how to ethically cite and acknowledge AI use.

AI can sometimes produce inaccurate, outdated, or biased information.

For this reason, we teach students to:

  • Verify AI-generated content using reliable sources
  • Identify misinformation and deepfakes
  • Ask questions and think critically
  • Engage meaningfully in the learning process

This work aligns with Ontario’s Transferable Skills, including critical thinking, communication, and digital literacy.

AI in the Classroom

AI is integrated in instructional practice in age-appropriate ways. Educators may use AI to support planning, differentiation, and enhanced learning experiences, while ensuring that all use complies with‑ board guidelines.

In the classroom, this means:

  • AI use is clearly communicated to students and families
  • Tasks focus on student thinking, conversations, and creativity
  • AI supports, but does not replace, relationship-based‑ teaching
  • Educators select tools that align with privacy, safety, and equity requirements

AI is never required for student participation or success.

Working Together

Parents and guardians play an essential role in helping students navigate digital tools safely and confidently.

The CDSBEO Generative AI Guidelines offer families clear information about:

  • What AI is and how it is used in education
  • How the board protects student privacy
  • How to support responsible and ethical technology use at home
  • The expectations students must follow at school

By working together, we can help students build the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Preparing Students for the Future

AI is shaping the future of learning, work, and communication.

Through a thoughtful, faith informed, and responsible approach, CDSBEO is preparing students to become:

  • Critical thinkers
  • Creative problem-solvers
  • Compassionate digital citizens
  • Confident learners ready to lead in a rapidly evolving world

Our commitment is to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and empowered as they explore these new technologies.

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