NYC to Ban AI Use for Students Below High School

New York City is preparing to implement what may be the nation's most restrictive artificial intelligence policy in public schools, according to details first reported by The New York Times.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels are expected to announce the policy Wednesday, which will impose a one-year pause on AI use for students until they reach high school. The restriction will affect nearly 600,000 students across the city's public school system.

Device restrictions by grade level

The policy extends beyond AI to include broader technology limitations in classrooms. Students from preschool through second grade will be prohibited from using laptops and tablets during class time. Students in third through eighth grade will face time limits on laptop use, though specific durations were not disclosed.

The Department of Education reportedly spent months developing a guidebook on AI in classrooms, incorporating feedback from lawmakers, technology companies, and parents. Schools Chancellor Samuels has previously stated that the guardrails aim to protect "the human connection, curiosity and creativity that help children grow."

Different rules for teachers

While students face significant restrictions, teachers will retain limited AI access. Educators will be permitted to use artificial intelligence tools for creating lesson plans, but the technology will be banned for grading assignments or managing crisis situations.

The distinction reflects an attempt to balance potential administrative benefits against concerns about AI's impact on student learning and development.

Why it matters

New York City's approach represents a sharp departure from many school districts that have embraced AI as an educational tool. With nearly 600,000 students affected, the policy will serve as a major test case for restrictive technology policies in education. The move could influence how other large urban districts approach AI adoption, particularly as technology companies continue pushing AI-powered educational products. The policy also highlights growing tension between technological advancement and concerns about child development, screen time, and the role of human interaction in learning.

Pushback on tech industry pressure

Mayor Mamdani has reportedly pushed back against technology industry arguments that AI-powered early education is inevitable. The policy announcement comes as schools nationwide grapple with questions about appropriate technology use in classrooms and the long-term effects of AI on student learning.

The restrictions are scheduled to take effect when New York City schools resume next week.

Details of the policy were first reported by The New York Times.