New York City moves to restrict AI use in schools

Growing concerns over children's dependence on AI are prompting tighter school guidelines, while officials plan a task force to examine the technology's role in education and shape the city's long-term policy.

New York City is preparing to restrict the use of artificial intelligence tools by public-school students through Class 8, marking a significant move to limit children's exposure to generative AI at an early age.

Under the proposed policy, students would be allowed to use AI only after entering high school, from Class 9, and even then its use would be limited to specific educational purposes. The move comes as parents and teachers increasingly debate how AI could influence children's learning, thinking abilities and mental well-being.

The policy would cover students up to eighth grade, who are generally around 13 years old in the US education system. AI tools used as digital companions or for emotional and psychological support are also expected to be restricted for students.

AI use to be limited in high school

The new approach reflects growing concerns about students becoming overly dependent on AI for schoolwork. Educators and parents have raised questions about whether frequent use of chatbots could reduce students' ability to think independently, develop ideas and complete assignments without technological assistance.

Concerns also extend beyond education. The energy and computing resources required to operate AI systems have added an environmental dimension to the debate over whether such technologies should be introduced widely in schools.

Teachers, meanwhile, will continue to have access to AI for selected professional tasks. These could include preparing lesson plans and drafting communications, allowing educators to use the technology while placing tighter limits on student access.

The policy represents a notable change from New York City's earlier plans. In March, the city's education department had proposed a more flexible framework based on a traffic-light system. It would have allowed students to use AI for activities including research, exploration and creative work.

That proposal faced criticism from parents and teachers who believed it did not place sufficient limits on AI use. Following the response, Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels acknowledged that officials had not communicated the policy effectively and said feedback from parents would be considered before finalising the rules.

Enforcement remains a key challenge

Implementing the restrictions could prove difficult because students can access AI platforms through personal devices and from outside school premises. Schools may therefore face challenges in monitoring usage, particularly when students use AI at home or on devices beyond the education department's control.

The education department has also recommended limiting classroom screen time to 45 minutes for middle-school students and 30 minutes for elementary-school students.

To shape the city's longer-term AI policy, the education department plans to establish a task force involving teachers, elected representatives, experts and union officials. The group is expected to submit a report in April that could guide future regulations.

New York City's decision is likely to attract attention across the US because its public-school system is the country's largest, serving more than 900,000 students. The policy could offer an important reference point for other major school districts considering how to balance the potential benefits of AI with concerns surrounding younger students.