New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced a one-year moratorium on the use of student-facing generative artificial intelligence in public schools for students through eighth grade, affecting nearly 600,000 children.
The policy, which will apply throughout the 2026-27 school year, covers students from 2-K through Grade 8 and is described by the city as the most expansive student-facing AI moratorium in the United States.
Under the new rules, software featuring student-facing generative AI will not be permitted for those grades, while companion AI chatbots will be prohibited across all grades.
Mamdani said children need teachers, human interaction and opportunities to work through difficult problems independently, adding that the city would use the one-year period to study the impact of AI technology on education.
The restrictions will not amount to a complete AI ban in high schools. Up to 50,000 high school students will be allowed to participate in limited pilots involving five approved AI programs under the direct supervision of trained educators.
All high school students will also be required to complete two 45-minute AI literacy modules covering issues including how AI works, data privacy, bias, ethical considerations and appropriate uses of the technology.
Teachers will still be permitted to use approved AI tools for instructional planning and operational work. However, AI cannot be used for grading, behavioral monitoring or decisions involving student placement, promotion or graduation.
Exceptions will also apply for certain assistive technologies used by students with disabilities, English-language learners and some career-readiness programs..
The city will establish a Technology in Schools Coalition involving students, educators, parents, elected officials and experts to assess the policy and make recommendations for the 2027-28 school year. (NewsWire)
