This year, yearbook adviser Alex Hollis added a new role: Chapman’s AI lead teacher.

This position is designed to help teachers integrate AI in a meaningful and ethical way, a long-term goal for District One.

“The idea is to be a building-level contact for teachers that doesn’t feel like you’re having to go to an instructional coach or go to the district office to get information or help if you have questions about AI,” Hollis said.

Hollis works alongside a variety of district employees including AI Integration Facilitator Jimmy Pryor, Director of Secondary Education and CTE Amy Driggers and Secondary Instructional Coach Alex Colson.

Colson said Hollis brings a unique and meaningful perspective to the role.

“I think it is important to have someone local in the building who understands what’s happening with students and teachers,” she said. “So not only does he have direct access to students because he is a classroom teacher, but also with his connections with teachers across the building and through yearbook, he has his hands in a lot of different sectors of the building, so his perspective is not just one-sided. It adds a couple of different views.”

Principal Matt Davis said Hollis’ role is designed to help both teachers and students.

“Having a dedicated AI leader in the building gives teachers confidence,” he said. “We want students to use AI as a learning tool, not as a shortcut.”

Hollis said he is hopeful that his new position will allow him to make a positive impact on the school as AI becomes a bigger part of education.

“It is more of a learning partner, and we need to teach students and teachers how to use it appropriately in academics,” he said.