Microsoft adopts strict AI privacy rules for US schools

Microsoft has reached a legally binding agreement with the American Federation of Teachers to implement strict privacy standards and guardrails for the use of artificial intelligence in schools. The agreement aims to address growing concerns regarding student data privacy and the potential for AI to foster emotional dependency or excessive screen time.

Key provisions of the deal include a prohibition on AI features designed to encourage emotional bonds or keep students engaged longer than necessary for learning tasks. Microsoft has also committed to not using student or teacher data to train its AI models, with very limited exceptions for safety purposes. Furthermore, the company has pledged that collected data will not be sold or used for advertising. To ensure compliance, the agreement requires third-party audits and mandates that Microsoft explain its tools and data collection practices to families using clear, simple language. While OpenAI and Anthropic are reportedly discussing similar safety pacts with the union, major providers like Google have not yet committed to comparable protections.