BUTLER TWP — Butler Area School District, like other districts, is still learning the impact of artificial intelligence on academia and the world as a whole. But its leaders are looking to stay ahead of the curve as new information comes to light.

Superintendent Brian White delivered an informational presentation to board members at a committee meeting before the school board meeting Monday, Nov. 10, regarding the impact of AI on education and the district’s operations.

To start, White explained new studies show that AI is not causing the economic or job market upheaval some people theorized or envisioned would happen.

“Their prediction is that we’re going to see more cultural change than a mass release of workers or job loss,” White said.

The study found no evidence of higher unemployment in AI-exposed industries and that AI adoption itself will be a slow transition, White said.

He also suggested students should be trained in AI literacy, adaptability and ethics. To that end, he presented a concept for AI and ethics lessons to be incorporated into the intermediate and senior high schools.

For example, sixth graders would be presented with a lesson tied back to early systems of justice, such as Hammurabi’s Code, to better understand fairness in algorithms.

White also brought up the topic of energy rate increases due to artificial intelligence and began presenting ideas for the district’s future energy costs. He said the energy market’s volatility means the district will be unlikely to procure a similar rate to their current one.

White said he would have discussions with solar companies to determine if a solar power purchase agreement would be a viable option. The agreement would keep equipment ownership and liability in the company’s hands.

The next school board meeting is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, at Emily Brittain Elementary School.