AI and the Higher Education Landscape: Implications for K-12 Leadership

As we navigate the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the educational landscape, significant questions about ethical use and the human-AI interface remain unanswered. This session presents a research initiative from George Fox University’s College of Education that explores how K-12 stakeholders, graduate students, and faculty perceive and use AI. Moving beyond the "sit and get" theory, this presentation shares baseline data and "on the ground" insights gathered during the Spring 2026 Semester. We will examine the complexities of maintaining a human-centered approach while navigating the challenges of AI regulation and misuse. Attendees will engage with strategies for building equity-centered mindsets and fostering a culture of innovation across higher education and K-12 district leadership. By centering student voice and ethical advocacy, this session equips educational leaders with the tools needed to develop robust policies and practical frameworks. Participants will leave with actionable insights on how to scale AI literacy, build trust with families, and lead organizational change that prioritizes the human element in a digital age.