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Is ChatGPT Ruining Education—or Are Schools Just Not Ready for It?
By [Your Name]

There’s been a lot of debate lately about students using ChatGPT. Some argue it’s destroying education, while others say it’s simply the next step in how we learn. The truth, though, is more complicated than “good” or “bad.” AI tools like ChatGPT are everywhere now—used by students, teachers, and even school systems.

So why does it feel like students are the only ones being accused of misusing it?

Maddie Mathias, a junior at Ludlow High School, shared, “I didn’t really care about ChatGPT that much last year, but now, I mean, I use it way more.”

What’s Really Happening in Classrooms?

Across classrooms, suspicion is growing. Some teachers claim they can “just tell” when a student uses AI—maybe the grammar is too perfect, the tone feels robotic, or the student uses too many em dashes (yes, some teachers see punctuation as a red flag). But what if that’s just how a student naturally writes? What if they’ve been working hard to improve?

It’s gotten to the point where students are afraid to sound too polished, for fear of being accused of cheating. But isn’t that the goal of school—to improve in our thinking and writing? Why is strong writing suddenly seen as suspicious?

Adding to the confusion, many of the same teachers who warn students against using AI are using it themselves.

Mr. Cangemi, an English teacher at LHS, weighed in: “It’s so new and so complicated… If a teacher can enhance a presentation using the ChatGPT tool, why wouldn’t they?”

Some teachers use ChatGPT to write lesson plans, rubrics, and even comments on essays. If teachers are allowed to use AI to make their jobs easier, why is it a “crime” when students use it to support their learning?

The Double Standard and the Line Between Help and Harm

High school students are juggling schoolwork, jobs, sports, and responsibilities. Sometimes, AI tools can help manage the load. But where should we draw the line? Using AI to brainstorm, check grammar, or explain difficult concepts can be helpful. Relying on it to write entire assignments? That’s where learning gets lost.

“I think it should stop at getting inspiration, grammar, and explaining difficult concepts,” said Emilia Alves, LHS student and editor of The Ludlow Cub. “After that point, you’re just hurting yourself.”

The Flaws of AI Detection

Another issue is AI detection software. These tools are far from perfect. Many have flagged student writing as AI-generated—when it wasn’t. Imagine putting hours into an assignment only to be accused of cheating by an algorithm that can’t explain its decision. That can damage a student’s grade and confidence.

“I don’t trust AI detection at this point,” said Mr. Cangemi. “I don’t think we can.”

At the college level, the consequences are even more serious. Students are losing credit, scholarships, and even getting expelled—based solely on unreliable AI detectors.

Let’s Be Honest: Misuse Happens

Of course, it’s not all unfair. Some students are misusing ChatGPT, copying entire essays and turning them in unread. That’s not learning, and it’s a slippery slope. If you never learn how to express your thoughts, how will you succeed in college, at work, or even writing a cover letter?

But banning AI entirely isn’t the answer.

The Real Question: Are Schools Ready to Evolve?

ChatGPT isn’t going away—just like calculators and the internet didn’t. When calculators first came out, people feared they’d ruin math. Now they’re a normal part of learning. The key is teaching students when and how to use these tools.

Instead of punishing students for using AI, schools should guide them on how to use it responsibly. ChatGPT can help students brainstorm ideas, organize outlines, and understand difficult material. For students with learning differences or for whom English isn’t a first language, it can be a powerful support.

At the same time, there needs to be transparency. If teachers are using AI, they should be open about it. After all, if a teacher creates an assignment with AI and a student completes it with AI—who’s really at fault?

Students Need Trust, Not Suspicion

The pressure on students today is enormous. We’re expected to take AP classes, play sports, work jobs, do community service, and still produce flawless writing. It’s no wonder some are turning to AI for help. But instead of treating us like criminals, schools should ask: Why are students using AI in the first place? What support are they missing?

Ultimately, this isn’t about whether AI is good or bad. It’s about balance. Students need guidance. Teachers need better strategies. And schools need to evolve.

Because the future is already here. The question is: Are we ready for it?