AI / Amira Use

[Kate O'Halloran]

Good evening, 

I submitted the email below to the district, state and school of my child so I apologize if it is repetitive. I just want to make sure my concerns are heard loud and clear.

I am the mother of an elementary student in Los Alamos. I have some serious concerns with the use of an AI tutor program for my child without any communication about it to the parents.

It is important for me to say that I love my child’s school and I love the principal and administration. I have been very happy with the responses and level of communication from the admin (prior to this) and I was very satisfied with the teaching my child received from their 1st grade teacher. The teacher is and was wonderful. 

With that said, I, and other LAPS parents I have spoken to, have concerns surrounding Amira.

1. Why has the software change not been communicated with the families in our district? I know that I-Station was purchased by them, but that does not excuse a lack of communication. The website for this AI software places importance on communication with families but so far it has not been received 

2. What levels of privacy are being enacted for our children? I am deeply uncomfortable with my child’s biometrics being utilized in this fashion and plan to opt out until an acceptable safety plan has been implemented and communicated.

3. Why does this data need to be associated with our child’s identity? If it is being collected as data for the state, why wouldn’t an ID number be sufficient? 

I cherish my child’s online anonymity and want to preserve it as long as possible. 

I understand the value these programs can add, but I fear the negative possibilities too much at this point in time to allow my child to participate. 

I expect that these issues are being seriously considered and will be addressed quickly to ensure the success of all the students in New Mexico. 

Thank you.