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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is leading the way nationally in how public school systems approach artificial intelligence.
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CMS AI Vision
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools embraces artificial intelligence (AI) as a catalyst for learning for all. AI will strengthen, rather than replace, the role of all staff in delivering excellence across each of our four pillars: academics, people, operations, and engagement. Leveraging the perspectives and partnership of our families and community, CMS will lead in the safe and effective adoption of AI – preparing all for success.
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AI Guiding Principles
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Academic Excellence
Academic Excellence
CMS is committed to ensuring all students and educators are AI literate. For students, AI literacy includes understanding how AI works as a learning tool, using AI responsibly, and evaluating its outputs critically. For educators, AI literacy includes enhancing instruction and personalized learning, fostering critical thinking, and promoting academic integrity. -
People Excellence
People Excellence
AI will transform how we learn, collaborate, and innovate, offering just-in-time support and unlocking new ways for educators to grow, connect, and lead. CMS will build the capacity of employees, teams, and the organization to use AI responsibly, effectively, and efficiently to maximize the success and creativity of all. -
Operational Excellence
Operational Excellence
CMS will leverage AI to optimize district operations, streamline processes, ensure accuracy, and improve efficiency. We will continue to adhere to cybersecurity standards and federal, state, and district policies for protecting stakeholder data. -
Engagement Excellence
Engagement Excellence
CMS will use AI to increase and improve engagement with all stakeholders, delivering on our commitment to excellence. AI will personalize communication, anticipate needs, and strengthen relationships, ensuring everyone we serve feels seen, heard, and valued.
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“AI is not the goal. It’s the catalyst. And the question is not just, ‘How do we use AI?’ but ‘What can AI do to help us learn, teach, and operate better – together?”
- Dr. Crystal Hill, Superintendent, CMSCMS AI Vision Report
In January 2025, CMS launched a districtwide engagement effort to help shape our vision for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. More than 10,000 families, educators, students, and community members contributed through surveys, focus groups, and interviews.
The CMS AI Vision Report captures key themes from what we heard and outlines the next steps we’re taking. This foundational input continues to guide our work as we build an inclusive, responsible, and student-centered approach to AI in CMS.
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Community Collaboration
The input gathered will serve as a foundation for developing an AI vision that reflects the diverse needs of the community and prepares students for a rapidly evolving digital future. CMS invites all community members to share their perspectives and play an active role in shaping this important vision for the future of education.
Ethical & Responsible Use
The focus groups and surveys will explore key areas such as enhancing classroom instruction, improving administrative efficiency, and addressing ethical considerations surrounding AI use. Focus groups will include a range of stakeholders, such as students, teachers, school leaders, district staff, and families represented by the Parent and Family Advisory Council.
Enhancing Teaching & Learning
We aim to engage students, families, educators, and community members in defining how AI can be integrated into teaching, learning, and district operations. By prioritizing stakeholder voices, CMS seeks to better understand the opportunities, challenges, and perceptions of AI. These input opportunities will ensure future CMS policies and practices around AI align with the district’s mission to create an innovative, inclusive, student-centered environment that supports the development of independent learners.