Tim Ranis presenting at the Closing the Gap Conference in Minneapolis in October 2025.
STEP 6: MAINTAIN PRIVACY, SAFETY, AND COMPLIANCE FERPA obligations don’t disappear because you’re using new technology. Data privacy remains paramount. During the conference, multiple participants asked about security. I addressed concerns directly by explaining my mul- tilayered approach: First, I comply with district requirements. My school district ultimately required me to use Google Gemini rather than Chat- GPT because of enhanced data contracts with Google’s educa- tion division. These contracts include “hold harmless” clauses that provide additional legal protection for the district. Second, I adjust AI platform settings to prohibit training on my data. In ChatGPT, this means navigating to Settings > Data Controls > “Improve the model for everyone” and ensuring it’s turned OFF. This prevents your student information from being used to train future AI models. Third, I anonymize data as much as possible. In demonstra- tions, I use fictional names like “Captain America” or “Steve” rather than actual student names. Even in private IEP work, I replace names with only first names or initials when feasible.
• Adjust tone or phrasing that doesn’t sound authentic • Confirm legal compliance and required elements
During my live demo, the AI occasionally pulled information that didn’t quite fit. For example, it suggested Steve was inter- ested in career exploration, but meeting notes didn’t support this claim. I immediately deleted that phrase, demonstrating real-time editing judgment. This editing process preserves several essential elements: • Legal accuracy and compliance • Student individuality and authentic representation • Ethical responsibility to families • Professional ownership of the final document
The AI won’t be the professional submitting the IEP for ap- proval. You will. That’s why this step is non-negotiable.
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