Pa. education secretary, Lancaster County educators talk risk, benefits of AI at Hourglass Forum

May 8, 2026 - 17:27

Artificial intelligence is not a distant concern for the future of education. It is a present reality. Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid Mumin delivered that message to a room full of educators and administrators at the Hourglass Forum in Lancaster County on Thursday. He stressed that schools cannot afford to ignore the technology that students are already using outside the classroom.

The forum brought together local teachers, school board members, and technology coordinators to discuss both the potential benefits and the serious risks of AI in K-12 settings. Dr. Mumin acknowledged the anxiety many educators feel about cheating, data privacy, and the loss of critical thinking skills. However, he argued that outright bans on AI tools are not the answer. Instead, he called for thoughtful integration and clear policies that teach students how to use these tools responsibly.

Several Lancaster County educators shared their own experiences. Some highlighted how AI can help personalize learning for students with different skill levels, while others warned about the digital divide. Schools in wealthier districts may have better access to reliable AI tools, leaving lower-income students further behind.

The discussion also touched on teacher training. Many educators feel unprepared to evaluate AI-generated work or to guide students on ethical use. Dr. Mumin emphasized that the state is working on guidance documents and professional development resources, but he urged local districts to start having these conversations now rather than waiting for a mandate.

The Hourglass Forum ended with no easy answers, but a clear consensus: ignoring AI is not an option. The challenge now is to shape how it is used before it shapes the classroom on its own.