Prompted: Intentional AI Literacy for a New Frontier - Punahou Bulletin

Punahou School leadership shares their strategic approach to integrating artificial intelligence in education through their Emerging Technology Executive Committee.

This comprehensive article explores how Punahou School, founded in 1841, is navigating the AI revolution while maintaining its commitment to human-centered learning. The school established the Emerging Technology Executive Committee in 2024 to thoughtfully integrate AI across all grade levels, from kindergarten through high school. Leadership emphasizes that their approach balances innovation with tradition, ensuring AI enhances rather than replaces critical thinking, creativity, and ethical reasoning.

• Human-centered strategy: AI integration focuses on advancing core learning outcomes including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, and citizenship
• Comprehensive faculty support: All educators receive AI literacy training, access to specialized tools like Magic School AI, and participate in peer-to-peer learning exchanges
• Age-appropriate implementation: Youngest learners engage with computational thinking concepts while older students explore advanced applications in robotics, design, and data science
• Ethical safeguards: Built-in curriculum components address AI bias, digital citizenship, and responsible use to prevent cognitive debt and maintain deep learning engagement