"At some point in the early 21st century, all of mankind was united in celebration. We marvelled at our own magnificence as we gave birth to AI."  

from the 1999 sci-fi film The Matrix 

When “The Matrix” was released in 1999, I never imagined that one day I would be quoting it in a school newsletter or at a school assembly. Yet, more than twenty-five years later, some of the questions raised by this science fiction classic seem more relevant than ever. 

At this week's assembly, I spoke with students about the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the opportunities and challenges it presents for their future. While “The Matrix” explored the fictional idea of technology becoming so powerful that humans lose control of it, the rapid advancement of AI invites us to consider a far more important question: what does it mean to be human in an age of artificial intelligence? 

One of the concepts I shared with students was the "Google Effect”, a term coined by researchers Betsy Sparrow, Jenny Liu and Daniel Wegner in 2011. Their research found that when people know information can be easily accessed online, they are less likely to remember the information itself and more likely to remember where to find it. In simple terms, technology is changing not only what we know, but how we think and learn. As AI becomes increasingly sophisticated, there is a growing temptation to outsource not only our memory, but our thinking, creativity and decision-making as well. 

Yet the qualities that define us as human cannot be replicated by a machine. AI can process information, but it cannot truly understand. It cannot experience joy, show compassion, build meaningful relationships or exercise moral judgement. Critical thinking, creativity, empathy, wisdom and human connection remain uniquely ours, and they will become even more important as technology continues to evolve. 

Recently, Pope Leo XIV, in his encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas”, reflected on the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany emerging technologies. While recognising the potential benefits of AI, he reminds us that technology must always serve humanity, never diminish it. Human dignity, authentic relationships, wisdom and compassion must remain at the centre of our decision-making. 

As parents, it is worth considering how AI will shape the lives of our children. The question is not whether they will use AI, but how they will use it. At Marist, we encourage students to embrace technology responsibly, ensuring it supports learning rather than replacing the effort, curiosity and human connections that are essential for growth. A fortnight ago, we shared our College AI Guidelines with families to provide clarity around these expectations and to support students in using AI ethically and responsibly. 

The theme of being human continued for me throughout this week as we commenced interviews for students seeking enrolment into Year 7 in 2027. These conversations are always valuable, providing insight into the aspirations of new families and how our College is perceived in the wider community. They also give me the opportunity to reconnect with current families and hear the stories of growth, achievement and success experienced by their children. 

One message came through strongly. Families consistently spoke about the relationships that exist at Marist. They spoke about staff who know their children, care for them as individuals and support them as they grow into young adults. In many ways, these conversations reinforced the message I shared at assembly. While technology will continue to change the world around us, positive human relationships remain at the heart of education. A school is not simply a place where information is delivered; it is a community where young people are known, challenged, supported and encouraged to become the best version of themselves. 

As in previous years, enrolment interest remains very strong and, unfortunately, some families may miss out. If you know of anyone considering Marist Regional College for their child, I encourage them to submit an application as soon as possible. 

The importance of relationships is also reflected in our expectations for student behaviour. At Marist, we have high standards, including the way our students present themselves. These expectations are clearly outlined in our College protocols and conveniently referenced in student diaries. We maintain these standards because experience tells us that when expectations begin to slip, behaviour often follows, and over time this can impact student learning and achievement. 

Our goal is not simply compliance with rules. Rather, it is to help young people develop the habits, character and self-discipline that will serve them well throughout life. We want our students to learn responsibility, resilience, respect and accountability, qualities that no technology can develop on their behalf. 

We also recognise that students face challenges and influences beyond the school gate that can affect their wellbeing and behaviour. When this occurs, we have a range of supports available within the College to assist students and their families. We ask parents and guardians to continue partnering with us in upholding our expectations. If your child shares an account of an incident or correction they have received, I encourage you to seek clarification with respect and curiosity before drawing conclusions. Our staff are not "out to get" particular students. Every member of our team cares deeply about the young people entrusted to us and wants the very best for them. It is precisely because we care that we maintain high expectations. 

Ultimately, we all want the same outcome: an excellent education that equips young people with the knowledge, skills, character and habits needed for success in life. Achieving this is a shared responsibility, and we genuinely value the partnership we have with parents and families.  

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the outstanding work of our Social Justice Group. Last week's clothing drive was an excellent example of students putting their values into action. Not only did they raise money to support our local St Vincent de Paul Society and assist those experiencing hardship, but they also sought to address a broader issue that often goes unnoticed, the impact of the fast fashion industry. 

As students highlighted at assembly, fast fashion contributes thousands of tonnes of waste each year, damages our environment and, in some parts of the world, relies on workers labouring in conditions that can only be described as slavery. Rather than simply identifying a problem, our students proposed a practical solution by encouraging the repurposing and reuse of clothing. 

In many ways, this initiative brought together everything I have reflected upon this week. In a world increasingly shaped by technology, efficiency and consumption, our students demonstrated something profoundly human: compassion for others, stewardship of creation and a commitment to justice. These qualities cannot be manufactured by artificial intelligence or automated by technology. They are the qualities that define us as people and as a Marist community. 

Technology will undoubtedly continue to shape the future. However, our greatest challenge is not keeping pace with technology; it is ensuring that as the world changes around us, we never lose sight of what makes us human. 

Warm regards, 

Shayne Kidd 

Principal