New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced a one-year restriction on student use of artificial intelligence.
The policy will affect around 600,000 public school students through eighth grade.
The decision makes New York one of the major US school districts taking strict action on student AI use.
Under the new policy, students will be restricted from using around 40 AI-powered educational tools. The measures will apply to public primary and middle schools.
Mayor Mamdani defended the decision by stressing the importance of human interaction in education. He said children need teachers and classmates to develop important skills.
The mayor also highlighted the importance of independent problem-solving. He said students should learn how to handle challenging tasks without depending on AI tools.
The policy will not completely prevent older students from using artificial intelligence. High school students will be allowed to use AI in certain situations.
Students at that level will also receive education about artificial intelligence. The programme will focus on AI awareness and responsible use.
However, AI chatbots will remain prohibited across all grade levels under the new rules.
Teachers will have different rules regarding artificial intelligence. They will be permitted to use AI for lesson planning and some administrative duties.
The policy will also include exemptions for students with special educational needs. Certain educational programmes may receive exemptions as well.
The latest decision follows earlier efforts by New York City schools to control student AI use.
The city’s public schools previously introduced a temporary ChatGPT ban in 2022. That restriction was later removed.
Officials will now use the coming year to study AI’s impact on classrooms. They will assess how the technology affects learning and student development.
The review will also help authorities prepare recommendations for future AI policies. Those recommendations could shape how artificial intelligence is used in education.
The move reflects growing concerns about the role of AI in schools. Educators and policymakers are increasingly examining its effect on traditional learning.
Supporters of the restriction say students need opportunities to develop skills independently. They also argue that classroom relationships remain important for children’s development.
The policy creates a different approach for teachers and students. Educators can use AI for selected professional tasks, while student access remains limited.
The New York City administration is expected to monitor the policy throughout the one-year period. Its findings could influence future decisions about AI in public schools.
The move highlights the ongoing debate over artificial intelligence in education. Schools across the United States are considering how to balance technology with traditional teaching.
In other news read more about Trump Warns Iran Could Face Further Action From US Against Regional Tension
For now, students through eighth grade in New York City public schools will face the strongest restrictions. Officials will review the results before deciding on longer-term rules.
