New York City Implements New Restrictions on AI Use in Schools

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani unveiled a comprehensive policy on artificial intelligence use in public schools, banning AI for younger students while launching limited pilot programs and literacy modules in high schools.

New Artificial Intelligence Policy

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels announced the new artificial intelligence rules at a press conference held at the Brooklyn STEAM Center. Mayor Mamdani emphasized that children need teachers and human interaction to learn and grow.

Limitations and Exemptions

In the upcoming school year, generative artificial intelligence will be banned for students from kindergarten through eighth grade, and companion chatbots will be blocked across all grade levels. Additionally, artificial intelligence components of 38 approved programs that do not meet standards will be disabled.

Screen Time and Device Rules

Students from kindergarten through second grade are prohibited from using individual devices such as Chromebooks in classrooms. For higher grades, time limits on screen time are recommended.

High School Pilot Programs

Five pilot programs will be launched in high schools utilizing pre-approved software such as Quill, Edia, Brisk Teaching, Playlab, and Intel AI-Ready. The use of these programs will be limited to a maximum of 45 minutes per week under direct teacher supervision.

Education and Reactions

High school students will receive two 45-minute artificial intelligence literacy training sessions per year. While parents and the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) welcomed the policy, they stated that certain exemptions pose risks and leave unanswered questions.