New York City to Restrict Student AI Use Through Eighth Grade

New York City is about to sharply narrow how students use technology in public schools. Starting next week, students will be barred from using artificial intelligence through eighth grade in a system serving about 900,000 children.

High school students will be allowed to use AI from ninth grade, but only for specified purposes, including learning about the technology itself. The rules also prohibit AI “companion” chatbots that offer students psychological support.

Teachers will retain access to AI for tasks such as preparing lessons and drafting messages. They cannot use it to grade student work. The education department is also tightening rules for conventional devices: pupils through third grade will generally stay off laptops and tablets in classrooms, while recommended screen-time limits are 30 minutes for elementary students and 45 minutes for middle-school students.

The restrictions follow criticism of an AI framework introduced in March, which allowed students to use the technology for research, exploration and creative projects. Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels later acknowledged concerns about how that policy had been communicated.

The education department is forming a task force with teachers, experts, elected officials and union representatives. Its report, expected in April, will help shape the city’s longer-term approach to AI in education.

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