Sensational headlines make it seem like AI will either save public education (“AI will magically give teachers back hours in their day!”) or destroy it completely (“Students only use AI to cheat!” “AI will replace teachers!”). Myth #1: AI’s biggest value is saving time for teachersTeachers are overburdened, and many AI tools promise relief through faster lesson planning, automated grading or instant feedback. Myth #2: The main challenge is getting the right AI tools into classroomsThe education technology market is already crowded, and AI has only added to the noise. Teachers are often left stitching together core curricula, supplemental programs, tutoring services and now AI tools with little guidance. The shift: Leaders must ensure they do not lose sight of today’s students or of tomorrow’s possibilities.