By Dr. Michael Lubelfeld with support from Open AI’s Chat GPT 4o– July 2, 2025
As we gather this Independence Day—surrounded by the sights, sounds, and symbols of freedom—I’m reminded that the story of America is still being written. And in public education, we are among its most active authors. With more than 33 years dedicated to public education, I am a proud supporter of public education and education in general! Each July 1 we get a “do over” and a new, fresh start. Each July 4 we get to celebrate our freedom, liberty & pursuit of happiness!
This Independence day isn’t just about celebrating our past—it’s about renewing our commitment to the ideals that shaped our democracy: equity, liberty, opportunity, and the power of an informed citizenry. These values are alive in every classroom, every team meeting, and every brave decision we make to serve each child, every day. These values are also embedded into our modernized Strategic Change Agenda in District 112 – with support and guidance from the Schlecty Center! Links- https://www.nssd112.org/about/strategic-change
In North Shore School District 112, we are embracing the future with courage, clarity, and care. This year, we’ve expanded our work with generative artificial intelligence—not as a replacement for human insight, but as a powerful partner to amplify what great teachers and leaders do best. We’re integrating tools like Google’s Gemini for Education, MagicSchool AI, and School AI, and we’re actively building custom applications that serve our teachers, staff, and students with real-time insights and support. I always remind people that Human Intelligence supercedes any Artificial Intelligence, and I am a proud founding member of the Human Intelligence Movement!
Through my role as a superintendent, author, and Generation AI Fellow with ISTE-ASCD, I’ve had the honor of learning alongside national leaders in this fast-moving space. But more importantly, I’ve had the opportunity to model and demystify AI for those we serve. We’re showing that with thoughtful implementation, professional development, and ethical guardrails, AI can improve instruction, streamline operations, and increase engagement, while keeping humanity and relationships at the center.
As we celebrate Independence Day, I’m also moved and quite proud that in North Shore School District 112, we’re not just modernizing buildings with geothermal energy and 21st-century learning spaces—we’re modernizing mindsets. Our multiple modernization projects and our Recent innovative Geo Thermal work are designed to impact our community for decades/generations!
Our nation’s founders believed in the power of a well-educated populace. Today, that includes preparing students and educators alike to live, lead, and thrive in a world powered by AI, collaboration, and constant change. That’s why I often say: We are not leading for today’s schools. We are leading for tomorrow.
As we celebrate our freedom today, I hope we also recommit to the work that lies ahead—the unfinished work of creating schools that are equitable, innovative, and deeply human. To our families, faculty, staff, and community partners: thank you for your trust and partnership. Thank you for believing that public education can—and must—rise to meet the moment.
Wishing you a joyful and meaningful 4th of July.
With hope and pride,
Mike
Superintendent | Author | Generation AI Fellow | Advocate for Future-Ready Leadership