Newark High School Launches AI Literacy Class

Students learn to navigate the risks and benefits of AI tools like chatbots

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A new artificial intelligence class at Washington Park High School in Newark, New Jersey is teaching high school seniors how to responsibly use and analyze AI tools like chatbots. The class aims to prepare students for a future increasingly shaped by AI, with lessons on prompting chatbots, understanding the societal impacts of AI, and developing guidelines for personal AI use. Teachers say the goal is to help students 'steer the technology' rather than be steered by it, comparing the class to preparing teens for a driver's license exam.

Why it matters

As AI chatbots become more advanced and prevalent, schools across the U.S. are rushing to introduce 'AI literacy' courses to teach students how to use these tools responsibly. Educators warn that chatbots can enable cheating, erode critical thinking, and have other unintended consequences, so they want to empower students to be active, discerning users of AI rather than passive consumers.

The details

The new AI literacy class at Washington Park High School covers topics like using chatbots to assist with homework and research, analyzing the societal impacts of AI-generated content, and developing personal guidelines for AI use. Students compare times when they actively selected online content versus when they passively scrolled through AI-curated feeds. The class is co-taught by a career explorations teacher and a history teacher, who have already integrated AI tools and discussions into their regular courses.

  • The first session of the new AI literacy class was held this month (February 2026).
  • The school plans to offer the AI literacy class to all 12th grade students soon.

The players

Washington Park High School

A high school in Newark, New Jersey that serves about 900 students and is part of the Uncommon Schools charter network focused on college and career preparation.

Mike Taubman

A 45-year-old career explorations teacher who co-developed the school's new AI literacy course.

Scott Kern

A 45-year-old U.S. history teacher who has already introduced AI tools and topics in his regular courses.

Adrian Farrell

An 18-year-old student who said he had taken charge of AI by asking a chatbot to check his math homework.

Brianna Perez

An 18-year-old student who said she went into 'passenger mode' when using a Spotify feature called AI DJ.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.