U.S. school districts implement new artificial intelligence policies

School districts in the United States are implementing new policies and tools to manage the integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms.

The Akron Board of Education has approved a new AI policy for the upcoming school year. Under these rules, students may use AI tools only when permitted by teachers, and unauthorized use may be treated as plagiarism or academic dishonesty. The policy emphasizes that human decision-making remains central to district operations and that AI should not serve as a substitute for authentic student learning or effort. AI may also be utilized to assist students with disabilities through tools like automated transcription or reading software.

In Minnesota, the St. Cloud Area Public Schools has become the first district in the state to adopt ChatGPT Edu. This program is currently limited to teachers and is intended to assist with clerical tasks, such as lesson planning and grading, to allow more time for instruction. District officials emphasized that student and data privacy are priorities and noted that the use of these tools is not mandatory for all educators.