Students, staff, and parents alike, it’s time we address a big issue that’s affecting our school: generative AI.

Our school Georgia Cyber Academy (GCA), has relied on generative AI in the creation of videos, promotional materials, educational slides, and even a book. This raises questions about the values we uphold as a school. As students, we are expected to think critically, show our creativity, develop original ideas, and demonstrate our understanding of various subjects. We are taught the importance of academic integrity and real human effort, and they penalize students for using AI in any way with their school work, so why are teachers excluded? GCA wants students to use their creativity and skills for their work, therefore, teachers and faculty need to be held to this same standard. Since generative AI has been introduced to our school, creativity is decreasing within our classrooms and pep rallies. Instead of making original, unique slideshows and PowerPoints, staff have been using AI to create our slides and lesson images. This demonstrates a lack of care and effort put into these presentations. It sets a bad example for students and decreases expectations and effort levels. If teachers do not care enough to make an original slideshow, why should students care about their work?

Generative AI raises serious concerns about the future of human creativity, the fair use of artists and writers work, the environment, and the quality of educational materials. When schools turn to AI generated content, they’re prioritizing convenience over quality, quick work over care, and machines over integrity. In the end, they’re choosing AI over the students education. In fact, many people have reported that students that have notoriously performed well throughout the years have had a sudden decline in academic success, which may be due to the increased use of AI in the classroom.

This is not just a matter of personal preference or resistance to technology. It is a matter of accountability. An educational institution should lead by example and show the importance of creativity and discipline. Otherwise, why not just ask tools like ChatGPT or Google Gemini to teach us our courses instead? We have teachers, writers, and artists for a reason, and it is unacceptable to have GCA replace them with these AI tools.

We are not just asking GCA to reject AI, but we’re asking them to prove to us that creativity, innovation, and hard work is important.

By signing this petition, we call on GCA to reconsider its use of generative AI in school resources such as but not limited to videos, promotional material, educational slides, and books. The education of humans should be built by fellow humans. It is time for us as a community, to speak up and demand better.