How and Why Our Team Uses AI at Forest
At The Forest School: An Acton Academy and The Forest School Online, we strive to prepare heroes for an ever-evolving world while modeling adaptability and innovation in our own work. We also strive for efficiency and quality in our own work. One recent way we do this is by thoughtfully integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into our daily practices. We believe that AI, when used responsibly, can enhance efficiency, creativity, and the overall learning experience—not just for learners but also for the educators and staff who support them.
How are you and your work teams using AI? In what follows, I share ways the Forest team currently uses AI.
First, operations and administration. AI helps us streamline the essential tasks of running a vibrant, learner-driven school. By using AI to draft first versions of emails and policies, we can communicate more clearly and efficiently with families, staff, and other stakeholders. It helps us make sure things don’t get overlooked and that our communication reflects the tone and care our community deserves. AI also supports our ability to provide progress reports, giving parents and caregivers a clear window into their child’s growth. These tools help us stay focused on what matters most: supporting our heroes.
In the Studios, AI plays an important role in the design of our learning experiences. From crafting challenges that appeal to different learning modalities to creating visuals for signature learning experiences, AI enhances our ability to deliver memorable, engaging activities. It supports project-based learning by helping us design complex, real-world challenges and enables us to write thoughtful session narratives that bring lessons to life. Some tools even assist with discussions, such as AI-powered Socratic dialogue platforms that allow learners to collaborate and exchange ideas virtually.
AI is also a powerful tool for feedback and growth. For example, it helps us provide constructive and specific feedback on writing, analyze data to monitor progress, and brainstorm coaching strategies for learners and staff. We use it to deepen thinking and creativity, helping learners tackle complex challenges while exploring their interests in meaningful ways. Beyond academics, AI supports our operational needs, including social media, budgeting, and strategic planning, allowing us to make informed decisions and remain responsive to the needs of our community.
Using AI helps us be more effective and intentional. By automating repetitive tasks, we free up time to focus on the relationships and experiences that make Forest unique. It allows us to dedicate more energy to designing personalized learning opportunities and mentoring learners, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and challenged. Just as importantly, our use of AI models for learners how to engage with modern tools ethically and thoughtfully, preparing them to navigate the future with confidence.
Of course, the integration of AI comes with responsibilities. AI has limits and biases that cannot be ignored. As we use these tools, we ask important questions about their application. How can we teach our community to identify and navigate bias in AI-generated content? When should heroes use adn not use AI? We also prioritize training our team to use AI effectively, balancing specificity and creativity when crafting learning prompts. Above all, we ensure that AI remains a tool to enhance human connection and judgment, not replace it. By carefully verifying its outputs, we guard against inaccuracies or "hallucinations" and keep relationships at the heart of our work.
Our commitment to using AI responsibly reflects our larger mission of fostering a learner-driven, relationship-centered environment. As AI technologies continue to evolve, we will remain transparent and open about how we use them and how they benefit our community. If you have any questions or thoughts about AI at Forest, we welcome your input! Together, we can ensure these tools empower us all to thrive in learning and life.
Warm regards,
Tyler Thigpen
CEO of The Forest School and The Forest School Online