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Smithtown Central School District
Smithtown Central
School District
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Parent University: A focus on AI in schools

October 23, 2025

“It’s the fastest moving technology I’ve ever seen.”

Those were the words of SCSD Technology Integration Specialist, Tim Needles, who spoke about the emerging world of Artificial Intelligence last night at the district’s Parent University event.

Held at Smithtown High School East, the focus of the event was on navigating Artificial Intelligence and how technology is being used responsibly in the classroom.

“We can see artificial intelligence will be an important part of students’ future, so we are working to help them understand AI literacy, and how to use the tools safely and ethically,” Needles said. “Students have an opportunity to use AI tools in creative ways such as using audio to create animations and collaborating on multimedia projects, which teaches them the basics of how AI works and how to engineer good prompts.”

The district continues to emphasize that while AI is a powerful tool, human creativity, judgment, and integrity remain at the heart of every classroom experience.

Speaker speaking to audience

Audience

Speaker

Tim Needles