I have developed a new AI policy for the journal. Read the full policy below. I have added a shortened version to the submission guidelines. I did not think it was needed until recently because I just do not understand why anyone interested in being a creative writer would want to submit AI-generated work. What is the fun in that? Seems there are some so desperate to publish that they will let a machine do their writing for them.
Unlike some, however, I am not totally opposed to the use of AI for research and editing, but AI should be used as a tool to enhance the writing only. There is also the ongoing question of how AI uses the work of artists without proper compensation. That is a real problem indeed.
Teach. Write. AI Use Policy
Teach. Write. welcomes original work created by human authors. AI tools may be used for editing, idea development, research, or fact‑checking, but the creative content — the narrative, characters, imagery, voice, and structure — must originate from the writer.
Acceptable Uses of AI
- Light editing or proofreading (grammar, clarity, organization).
- Research assistance (summaries, background information, fact‑checking).
- Brainstorming or prompt generation to help overcome writer’s block.
- Accessibility support (dictation tools, transcription, etc.).
These uses are considered similar to using spell‑check, thesaurus tools, or hiring a human editor.
If AI generated the majority of the text, it is not original work and will not be considered.
Unacceptable Uses of AI
- Submitting AI‑generated stories, poems, essays, or scripts.
- Using AI to draft large portions of a piece and then lightly revising it.
- Using AI to imitate another writer’s style or voice.
- Submitting work that is substantially machine‑generated, even if edited by the author.
- Using AI to fabricate personal experiences, memories, or identities.
Disclosure Requirement
If AI tools were used in the writing process (beyond basic proofreading), authors must include a brief note in their submission email describing how AI assisted them. Example: “I used AI to help summarize background research on X topic and to check grammar.”
This is not punitive — it simply maintains transparency and protects the integrity of the journal.
Why This Policy Exists
Teach. Write. is a journal dedicated to the lived experiences, imagination, and craft of writers — especially teachers and students. AI can support the writing process, but it cannot replace the human voice, emotional truth, or creative insight that make literature meaningful.
Submitting AI‑generated work undermines:
- the purpose of literary publishing
- the value of human creativity
- the trust between writer and editor
- the honorarium provided
- the community Teach. Write. is built to serve
If a writer does not create the work themselves, there is no artistic or ethical reason to submit it.
Consequences
Work found to be substantially AI‑generated will be rejected without further consideration. Repeat offenders may be barred from future submission periods. The decision to accept or reject lies completely with the editor-in-chief–yours truly.
I will still be accepting submissions of flash and short fiction, creative non-fiction, and short drama for the fall/winter 2026 edition until September 1. The photo theme of this edition is space exploration. Let that inspire you. I do lean towards the work of teachers and students or work about teachers, students, and learning, but I am open to all good writing in a variety of genres. Read the current and past editions to get a feel for the kind of work I publish. Also, take a look at the submission guidelines for more insight. I look forward to reading your work.