Artificial intelligence isn’t just a tech trend—it’s transforming how schools teach, learn, and operate.
In this episode, host Micki O’Neil talks with Jason Mellema, Superintendent of Ingham Intermediate School District (ISD), about how AI is already influencing classrooms, student learning, and district operations across Michigan. Together, they explore the opportunities, challenges, and ethical questions that come with this new era of technology.
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A New Era of Learning
AI is one of the most significant disruptors education has ever seen—and in this case, disruption can be a good thing.
For decades, educators have dreamed of personalized learning—tailoring lessons, pacing, and feedback to each student’s unique needs. But large class sizes and limited resources have made that difficult to achieve.
“When we think about what AI can do, it becomes exciting,” Mellema says.
“It can provide real-time support, personalized tutoring, and on-demand help for students in ways we’ve never had before.”
Instead of replacing teachers, AI can help extend learning beyond the classroom—giving students access to help when they need it most, even after school hours.
Bridging the Digital Divide
While AI can enhance learning, Mellema cautions that access and equity must remain front and center.
“We need to make sure bias and affordability don’t widen the gap between those who have and those who haven’t,” he explains.
That’s why Ingham ISD is taking a measured approach—testing new tools while keeping safety, access, and student well-being at the heart of every innovation.
AI in Action: Ingham ISD’s Pilot Program
In the 2023–2024 school year, Ingham ISD launched a pilot project designed to help students explore how AI might shape their future careers.
Working with Dr. Jim Kelly and guided by a challenge from Ted Dintersmith of What Schools Could Be, students at the Ingham Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center examined how AI could impact fields as diverse as business, healthcare, and cosmetology.
Each program’s students analyzed the potential benefits, risks, and transformations AI could bring to their chosen industries.
“We told them right up front—there’s no rubric, no right answer,” Mellema recalls. “This was about critical thinking. About exploring how AI might disrupt their world in meaningful ways.”
The resulting projects were so impressive they earned statewide recognition and reinforced a mindset of experimentation and growth within the district.
AI Beyond the Classroom
AI isn’t just for students. Ingham ISD is also exploring how technology can streamline district operations—from communication and HR to tech support and business services.
For example, the team is studying how AI-powered tools could answer common questions about forms like FMLA or assist staff with routine processes—freeing up human time for higher-level problem-solving.
“This is about supplementing, not replacing,” Mellema explains.
“AI should make things better, not take things away.”
Rethinking “Disruption”
When Mellema talks about disruption, it’s not about breaking systems—it’s about improving them.
“Disruption can be positive,” he says. “It’s about changing adult behaviors to better meet student needs.”
Today’s students are digital natives who have never known a world without smartphones or smart technology. For educators, that means rethinking teaching models to align with how modern learners interact, think, and create.
“This is the best technology we as adults have ever had,” Mellema adds.
“But it’s the worst technology these kids will ever have. They’re only going up from here.”
Why It Matters
AI is no longer the future—it’s the present. And as schools navigate this shift, the focus remains clear: prepare students not just to use technology, but to understand and shape it.
By approaching AI with curiosity, caution, and creativity, Ingham ISD is leading a thoughtful, forward-thinking model for how schools can embrace innovation while staying true to their mission—helping every student succeed.
Learn More
Discover how Ingham ISD is integrating innovation into every level of learning at inghamisd.org, and explore more stories that celebrate Michigan schools at BackPackPress.org.
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