St. Joseph School District school board discusses AI use, bus routes for 2026-27 school year  

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph School District's Board of Education discussed the use of AI in the district and school year bus routes Monday night.

Board members did not take any votes during the work session. Instead, they discussed several items on the agenda, including the district's technology plan and bus routes for the upcoming school year.

The district presented its SJSD technology plan, which outlines goals for how the Technology Services Department will support academics and district operations.

The district does not allow students to use AI on district devices. However, one school district official said they recognize AI can be an important tool for improving efficiency, supporting student learning and building AI literacy.

"We don't allow AI use by our students. Most of their privacy policies state 16 and over only, and unless we purchase our own AI tool to use, things can't be blocked by our content filters," said Jacob Kelly, director of technology and data management.

Kelly said students can use AI at home, but the district wants to focus on teaching students about AI literacy. However, they can't allow students to use it on their school devices.

The board also discussed bus routes for the 2026-27 school year.

When creating the routes, the district said it will work to eliminate as many turnaround points as possible. Officials also said buses will not be overloaded, and new routes will only be added once existing routes reach capacity.

Students are expected to ride their assigned buses and use their regular bus stops. However, students can get off at a different stop if they have a note from a parent or guardian giving them permission.

The next SJSD Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 24.