2026 AAEA Summer Conference

The Arkansas LEARNS Act has placed clear expectations on districts to establish Behavioral Threat Assessment teams and procedures. While many schools have taken the necessary steps toward compliance, questions remain about consistency, documentation, communication and, most importantly, liability. This session is designed for school administrators who want to ensure their district is not only compliant on paper, but also operating in a way that strengthens student and staff safety while reducing institutional risk. Participants will gain practical guidance on aligning policies and procedures with LEARNS Act requirements, building defensible documentation systems, and creating clear internal protocols. Participants will examine how gaps in process, inconsistent documentation, or unclear roles can increase vulnerability, and how to proactively close those gaps. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to move from minimal compliance to confident implementation, creating systems that protect students, support staff, and demonstrate due diligence.

Artificial intelligence, social media, and rapidly evolving digital platforms are reshaping the online environments where students learn, communicate, and socialize. This session equips school administrators with the knowledge and tools needed to help protect students and staff in today’s complex digital landscape. Participants will explore how child and adolescent brain development influences online behavior and risk-taking, while examining emerging threats, including dangerous apps, AI deepfakes, AI companion bots, gaming risks, cell phone misuse, and sextortion.

What are the unique features of several of the popular AI platforms? This session reviews practical AI tools that support lesson planning, curriculum design, grading, and student engagement. Participants will explore platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, MagicSchool, Eduaide, Knowt, Brisk, Curipod, and more, if time allows. Participants will consider AI policies and Arkansas ACT 754 regarding student use and data privacy requirements.