In a time where technology continues to transform the landscape of education, today’s Professional Development Day provided a valuable opportunity for faculty and staff to engage with innovative ideas and practices. Presentations focused on the role of artificial intelligence, exploring how these advanced tools can enhance learning experiences and prepare students for the future. Additionally, discussions highlighted the Raider Network, showcasing the school’s broadcasting program that connects the JA community and gives students real-word experiences.
Artificial Intelligence
Teachers and students are adapting to the availability of artificial intelligence, working to reap the benefits while maintaining boundaries for its use. Middle School Literature teacher Alesha Cary and Upper School English teacher Dr. Cassidy Swinney led sessions today for each school division that guided teachers and staff on managing the ongoing development of artificial intelligence and its impact on educational methods.
Understanding this new realm of technology, its rapid advancement, its possibilities, and associated ethical concerns, is critical for teachers as they continue to guide their classrooms. Carey and Swinney’s presentation addressed current AI capabilities and practical classroom strategies. They also mentioned the JA-developed AI Task Force that has been studying how AI will affect education and how best to prepare students and teachers for this change. The Student & Parent Handbook addresses AI, noting that students are permitted to use AI in academic settings only at the express direction of, and supervision of, JA faculty and staff.
Raider Network
Sports Information Director Bryan Eubank and Director of Operations and Infrastructure Josh Hinkle presented an update on the Raider Network, outlining the scope of this JA initiative. In the 2024-2025 school year, Raider Network had 7,000+ subscribers on YouTube with 137,245 views and nearly 2.5 million minutes watched, more than 150,000 website views, and approximately 10,000 views on Apple TV and OnDemand. The financially self-sustaining Raider Network contributes to the JA budget by offering production and streaming services to ESPN and MAIS, as well as through subscriptions and sponsor advertising. The most remarkable part is that JA students are integral team members of the productions, with many going on to pursue student broadcast jobs during college or careers in broadcast production.
