Exploring the Future: AI in Independent Schools

On Thursday, April 10, Far Hills Country Day School hosted an insightful evening event, AI & The Future of Education, featuring nationally recognized speaker and thought leader Christina Lewellen, Executive Director of the Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (ATLIS). Held in the Gallery Room at the Pendry Natirar, this engaging session explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in education—beyond the headlines—and what it truly means for students, parents, and schools.

Earlier in the day, Christina met with the Far Hills Senior Leadership Team for a deep-dive discussion on how AI can be thoughtfully and responsibly integrated into classrooms at age-appropriate levels. The conversations focused on leveraging AI as a tool to enhance—not replace—teaching and learning, helping prepare students for a future where technological fluency will be essential. This work aligns with the school’s commitment to innovation and its forward-thinking approach to education.

During the evening event, Christina helped attendees reframe AI not as “cheating,” but as an additional tool in the toolbox—one that, when used responsibly, can support creativity, critical thinking, and personalized learning. Drawing on personal anecdotes, including how AI has supported her own children’s educational journeys, as well as how she uses it in her professional life, she offered relatable and reassuring insight into what’s ahead.

The discussion addressed common questions such as:

• Is AI safe for children?
• Will it replace jobs in the future?
• How can it be used meaningfully in schools?

Attendees left the event with a clearer, more optimistic view of how AI can be implemented in thoughtful, developmentally appropriate ways across independent schools like Far Hills.

Adding to the excitement of the day, Christina had just been recognized with a prestigious honor: she was named a Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) on April 9. This elite recognition—bestowed on less than one percent of ASAE members—acknowledges her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing the role of technology in education.

Click here to read the full announcement.

As a proud member of ATLIS, Far Hills is thrilled to continue our collaboration with Christina and her team as we explore meaningful, innovative ways to prepare our students for the future.