Building AI Literacy at Merion Mercy Academy

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the way we live, learn, and work—and it will play an even greater role in the careers of tomorrow. To prepare our students for this future, Merion Mercy Academy has introduced a required AI Literacy Mini Course for all students.

This course provides students with essential background knowledge: what AI is, how it works, and its strengths and limitations. Importantly, it also emphasizes our shared expectations for the ethical and responsible use of AI. Through two short assignments, students will explore AI in both theory and practice. First, they will watch short videos, answer reflection questions, and interact with Flint, an AI platform that encourages safe and transparent use. In the second assignment, students will review Merion Mercy’s Academic Integrity and Generative AI Policy and write a personal commitment paragraph describing how they will use AI responsibly in their learning journey.

At Merion Mercy, academic integrity is a core value. We expect students to approach all of their work with honesty, accountability, and respect for themselves and others. This means that all graded work must be their own, plagiarism is prohibited, and collaboration must follow teacher guidelines. Parents and caregivers are considered partners in this process, helping their daughters develop good work habits and supporting them in moments of challenge.

Our Generative AI Policy builds on these principles. Philip Vinogradov, Assistant Head of School for Academics, explains, “While AI can be a powerful tool for brainstorming, organizing ideas, practicing skills, or receiving feedback, it cannot replace original student thinking.” Improper uses include copying AI-generated content, using AI to answer test or assignment questions, or failing to disclose its use. Students are expected to cite or acknowledge AI assistance just as they would any other source. They are also taught to verify the accuracy of AI outputs, since these tools can sometimes produce errors.

“Students are encouraged to view AI as a partner in learning—a tool that can support the learning process when used responsibly,”

says Vinogradov. By requiring every student to complete the AI Literacy Mini Course, Merion Mercy ensures that our entire community begins with the same foundation: an informed, ethical, and thoughtful approach to emerging technology.