The American School of Bahrain (ASB) has become one of the first 10 schools globally, and notably the first in the GCC, to receive the Responsible AI in Learning (RAIL) endorsement from the Middle States Association (MSA), a prestigious US accreditation body for educational institutions. This endorsement recognizes ASB’s leadership in integrating AI literacy and ethics across its educational programs, equipping students and staff to responsibly navigate the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
ASB has adopted a comprehensive approach to AI literacy, safety, and ethics, covering all grade levels. The school ensures that students, staff, and the wider community possess the necessary knowledge to use AI tools responsibly and effectively.
Dave McMaster, Director of ASB, underscored the importance of this achievement, stating, “Aligned with MSA’s vision, our goal is not simply to use AI tools for daily tasks, as we did decades ago. We view AI as a transformative force that can fundamentally reshape the learning experience.” He added that the integration of AI aims to unlock new opportunities for creativity and understanding, preparing students and staff for a future where AI plays a key role.
ASB’s participation in the RAIL initiative reflects its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The RAIL endorsement was granted after the school met stringent benchmarks, including the development of updated policies, procedures, and a detailed plan to enhance AI literacy.
AI literacy has been integrated across all grade levels, from elementary to high school, ensuring age-appropriate and ethically sound engagement with the technology. For example, elementary students create podcasts while older students use AI in written assessments. ASB is embedding AI as a core educational tool, introducing it responsibly.
Hiba Oker, ASB’s Technology Integration Coordinator, highlighted that the endorsement demonstrates the school’s dedication to equipping its students for the future. “Our AI education program ensures that children from as young as Grade 3 learn to engage with AI in a responsible and meaningful way, integrating it into creative projects and advanced assessments,” Oker explained.
Teachers across the school integrate AI tools into lessons, helping students explore its capabilities while considering its ethical implications. In addition, ASB’s policies ensure high standards of AI use, with ongoing training provided to educators to keep them updated on the latest advancements in AI technology.
This RAIL initiative aligns with ASB’s mission of fostering innovation and community leadership, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in AI education in the GCC and beyond.
