New York bans AI use for students until high school

New York has prohibited students from using artificial intelligence (AI) in their education until they reach high school, according to Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The one-year ban affects approximately 600,000 public school students, encompassing grades K-8. Only high school students, typically aged 14 and above, will be allowed to use AI in limited pilot programs, with biannual AI literacy classes offered to them. Companion chatbots intended for emotional support will also be prohibited across all grades.

Mayor Mamdani emphasized that children require human connection, teacher guidance, and opportunities to develop skills alongside their peers in order to learn and grow. Teachers, however, will still be permitted to utilize AI for lesson planning and administrative duties.

The ban is set to remain in place throughout the 2026-2027 school year while a task force consisting of students, teachers, parents, elected officials, and industry experts evaluates its impact before releasing a report on its findings. New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed support for the decision, stating that the city has a responsibility to ensure that technology supports children's learning without hindering it.

The new rules follow an earlier framework introduced in March that permitted students to use AI for research, exploration, and creative projects. This initial approach faced criticism from many parents and teachers who deemed it too permissive. In response, Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels acknowledged that the city had missed the mark in its communications and pledged to review the feedback for future rule revisions.