The Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee in the Greenburgh Central School District recently reconvened for its bi-monthly meeting, bringing together 18 students representing R.J. Bailey Middle School, Woodlands Middle/High School, and Woodlands High School. The committee provides students with a direct voice in district decision-making and regular opportunities to engage with district leadership on issues that affect their daily school experience.
Led by Superintendent Dr. Lorenda Chisolm and Technology Director Kelly Verdina, the meeting focused on two topics students identified as priorities during their previous session: the district’s internet-enabled device policy and the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) policy.
Students began the meeting by breaking into two groups. Dr. Chisolm led the discussion on cell phones, while Ms. Verdina facilitated the AI conversation. In the cell phone group, students explored different ways phones could be stored during the school day and noted that expectations may appropriately differ by school level. They also discussed the importance of clear, fair, and tiered disciplinary processes for first and subsequent violations.
In the AI group, students talked about how artificial intelligence can be used appropriately in classrooms. They learned that the district’s approach is not to ban AI, but to support controlled and responsible use that teaches students how to engage with the technology thoughtfully. Students shared their own experiences using AI, discussed how teachers currently use it, and debated ethical considerations. While some expressed skepticism—one student noting, “It seems like AI stunts your brain and development”—others pointed to appropriate uses, such as organizing notes or catching up on missed lessons. Students also raised concerns about AI detection tools, citing experiences where they felt incorrectly flagged.
“When policies directly affect students’ daily lives, their voices matter,” said Superintendent Dr. Lorenda Chisolm. “They bring insight and firsthand experiences that are essential to understanding how those policies will actually play out in schools.”
Once the cell phone group completed its discussion, the full committee reconvened. Together, students reviewed policies from other districts related to both cell phones and AI, comparing approaches and discussing what they liked or found effective. This portion of the meeting also included a deeper conversation about the role of policy versus procedure, helping students understand how policies establish expectations and how procedures guide day-to-day implementation.
Students reflected on the value of serving on the committee. One student shared, “It’s an honor to be chosen and a treat to have direct time with the superintendent. I know this is special.” Another added, “It’s really good to have a voice in these important decisions.”
The committee will meet again in mid-March to take this work to the next level, shifting the focus from policy language to procedures and implementation. Students will remain involved as the district works through how these policies are carried out in schools.