New York City Bans Classroom AI Use Through Eighth Grade

New York City is drawing a firm line around artificial intelligence in early education as schools worldwide weigh the technology’s benefits against concerns about weakened critical thinking and overreliance on automated tools. The policy covers students from prekindergarten through eighth grade, prioritizing independent reasoning, writing and in-person social development before they enter high school. It also restricts how educators may use AI in assessing student work.

Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, New York City public schools will prohibit classroom AI use for about 600,000 students in prekindergarten through eighth grade. Teachers will also be barred from using AI tools to grade assignments, while additional limits will apply to digital devices used on campus. The restrictions are set to operate for one school year, establishing a controlled period for the city to define the technology’s role in classrooms.