Microsoft introduces AI guardrails for US schools amid growing backlash
OpenAI and Anthropic said they also were discussing safety and privacy pacts with the American teachers’ union. But Google, the dominant provider of education technology for US schools, has not said whether it plans to offer similar protections.
Microsoft is implementing guardrails and privacy standards for its AI in U.S. schools, following negotiations with the nation's second-largest teachers union. The agreement, signed last week, prohibits AI companions or features designed to create emotional attachments or keep students engaged beyond an assigned task. These standards are legally binding and require third-party audits to ensure compliance.
Microsoft pledges not to use student or educator data for AI training, except where necessary for student protection, and states that collected data cannot be sold, used for advertising, or utilized in product development. Furthermore, the company must clarify to families how its tools operate and what data they gather. Brad Smith, Microsoft's vice chair and president, emphasized that this standard sets a high bar for child privacy and AI safety, with the agreement extending to all U.S. school districts starting November 1. The standards will apply to Microsoft school contracts across the country from November 1.
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