State AI Guidance for K12 Schools
25 states and their departments of education now have official guidance or policy on the use of AI in K12 schools. We’ve compiled them in this handy resource which includes summaries and links to the full guidance for each state.
(Updated 1/24/2025)
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This AI Policy Template from the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) released in June 2024, provides guidance for Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in Alabama to develop and implement AI policies in K-12 education. The document emerged from the ALSDE AI Summit in November 2023 and subsequent sessions, representing a collaborative effort among various education stakeholders.
Key Areas Covered:
1. Eight foundational pillars: Strategy, Governance, Data Privacy and Security, Procurement, Implementation, Competency Development, Risk Management, and Utility and Effectiveness
2. Clear definitions of AI terminology and systems
3. Comprehensive guidance on AI usage in educational settings
4. Data privacy and security compliance requirements
5. Procurement and implementation guidelines
6. Risk management framework based on NIST standards
7. Detailed rules for responsible AI use by all stakeholders
Unique Aspects:
1. Alabama-specific context: The template is tailored to Alabama's educational system, with input from diverse stakeholders including the Governor's office, state education associations, and local education agencies.
2. Strong emphasis on human oversight:
- Explicitly states that AI systems will supplement, not replace, human instruction
- Requires human verification of AI-generated content and grading
- Mandates human-in-the-loop development in AI systems
3. Detailed data protection measures:
- Includes specific contract language for AI vendors (Appendix A)
- Prohibits unauthorized use of school data for training new AI models
- Requires explicit documentation and approval processes for any AI system training
4. Implementation accountability:
- Requires establishment of AI Governance Committees
- Mandates regular compliance audits
- Requires corrective action plans for any identified issues
5. Comprehensive usage guidelines:
- Clear rules for citing AI use
- Verification requirements for AI-generated content
- Process for contesting AI-generated grades
- Restrictions on AI-powered surveillance and behavioral tracking
The template stands out for its practical approach to AI integration while maintaining strong protections for student data and emphasizing the primacy of human judgment in education.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Arizona Institute for Education and the Economy provides an overview of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as understanding GenAI, powerful teaching and learning, AI literacy, responsible and ethical implementation, and recommendations for implementation. The guidance emphasizes the importance of human agency and oversight, responsible AI use, and preparing students for an AI-powered future.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Arizona's educational context, including references to state academic standards and local school district examples.
2. Emphasis on the "human agency and oversight imperative" throughout the document, and includes AI for Education's Top 6 Questions for GenAI EdTech Providers.
3. Detailed discussion of five key ethical considerations: bias, misinformation, intellectual property, data privacy, and equitable access.
4. Three-stage implementation recommendation: Create a Strong Foundation, Build Momentum, and Continuous Improvement.
5. Provides additional resources and research, including AI for Education's free course: An Essential Guide to AI for Educators
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This comprehensive guidance document from the California Department of Education addresses the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers topics such as understanding AI, its potential uses in teaching and learning, ethical considerations, and implementation strategies. The guidance emphasizes the importance of human relationships in education, AI literacy, equity, and responsible use while exploring potential applications in classroom instruction and school operations.
Unique aspects include:
1. A focus on California-specific educational standards and initiatives.
2. Emphasis on integrating AI skills with California's computer science standards.
3. Guidance on developing AI in schools, not just using existing AI tools.
4. Incorporation of the "5 Big Ideas of AI" framework for K-12 education.
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This comprehensive roadmap document from Colorado provides guidance for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 education across the state. It covers topics such as reshaping teaching and learning, advancing equitable access, developing policies for transparent and ethical use, and next steps for implementation. The guidance emphasizes the importance of human relationships in education, AI literacy, equity, responsible use, and collaboration while exploring potential applications and considerations for AI in classrooms and school operations.
Includes:
1. A focus on Colorado's specific educational context, including its local control structure.
2. Recommendations tailored for both school districts and statewide organizations.
3. Inclusion of student voices and perspectives throughout the document.
4. Emphasis on continuous learning and adaptation as AI technologies evolve.
5. Specific tools developed by working groups, such as the "If and How Checklist" and "AI Resource Evaluation Tool."
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Connecticut Commission for Educational Technology provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as types and applications of AI, instructional and decision-making best practices, potential risks, policy considerations, and resources for educators. The guidance emphasizes the importance of responsible AI use, ethical considerations, and equitable access while providing practical guidance for educators and school leaders to integrate AI effectively.
Includes:
Specific focus on Connecticut's educational context, including references to state laws and policies.
Emphasis on the need for human oversight and discernment when using AI tools in education.
Discussion of social and emotional risks associated with AI use among students.
Inclusion of equity considerations, particularly regarding access to AI tools and technology.
References to recent and pending legislation in Connecticut related to AI in education.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Delaware Department of Education provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as understanding AI, implementation strategies for districts and charter schools, classroom integration, professional learning opportunities, and next steps. The guidance emphasizes the importance of responsible AI use, ethical considerations, data privacy, and equity while providing practical guidance for educators and school leaders to integrate AI effectively.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Delaware's educational context, including references to state policies and initiatives.
2. Inclusion of a version history table to track updates to the guidance over time.
3. Use of the SAMR model to illustrate AI integration in classrooms at different levels.
4. Emphasis on both short-term and long-term actions for AI implementation.
5. Acknowledgment of the need for continuous review and adaptation of AI practices in education.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Georgia Department of Education (January 2025) provides a framework for implementing AI in K-12 education, focusing on ethical, effective, and secure use. It covers key areas including ethical considerations, privacy safeguards, policy development, and classroom implementation strategies.
Key areas covered:
- Overview of AI and its educational applications
- Ethical and responsible use guidelines
- Privacy protection and data security measures
- District policy adoption processes
- Professional development requirements
- Classroom implementation strategies
- AI attribution protocols
Unique aspects:
1. Clear distinction between high-stakes and non-high stakes AI uses, with specific examples of appropriate and inappropriate applications
- Prohibits AI for IEP goals, educator evaluations, and subjective grading
- Allows AI for lesson planning assistance, rubric development, and multiple-choice grading
2. "Traffic Light" System for AI Use:
- Red: AI not allowed (academic dishonesty)
- Yellow: AI allowed for content creation assistance
- Green: AI encouraged with proper citation
3. Comprehensive Evaluation Process Rubric for AI tools, including:
- Educational value
- Data privacy compliance
- Usability and accessibility
- Cost considerations
- Scalability
- Vendor reputation
- Age restrictions
4. Integration with TrustEd Apps platform for vetting AI applications
5. District Self-check sections throughout the document, providing structured evaluation points for implementation
The document emphasizes maintaining human oversight while leveraging AI's benefits, with particular attention to Georgia's educational context and compliance requirements.
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This guidance document from the Hawaii State Department of Education provides concise recommendations for employees on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. It covers key areas such as accountability, fairness and equity, human oversight, assessment and effectiveness, professional development, and data protection. The guidance emphasizes the importance of ethical AI use, critical evaluation of AI-generated content, and the need for ongoing professional development.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Hawaii's educational context, referencing state policies and resources.
2. Emphasis on avoiding AI detection tools for plagiarism due to their limitations.
3. Recommendation to cite AI-generated content to prevent plagiarism and uphold ethical use.
4. Guidance on using AI to transform assessments and provide personalized instruction.
5. Inclusion of links to various resources and support offices within the Hawaii Department of Education for further guidance on AI implementation.
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This guidance document from Indiana provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education, focusing on AI literacy, instruction and learning, impact, security, and resources. The guidance emphasizes the importance of responsible AI use, critical thinking, and preparing students for an AI-driven future while providing practical guidance for educators and school leaders.
Includes:
1. Strong emphasis on AI literacy as essential for developing empowered learners and citizens.
2. Integration of AI literacy with computer science concepts and skills.
3. Discussion of how AI can enhance instruction and learning through personalization, time-saving, and improved feedback.
4. Comparison of student and educator experiences with AI, highlighting the importance of understanding AI principles and ethical use.
5. Focus on security considerations, including compliance with FERPA/COPPA and protecting personal identifiable information.
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This guidance document from the Kentucky Department of Education provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implementation in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as emerging technology considerations, guiding principles for AI use, application paradigms, and post-adoption monitoring. The guidance emphasizes the importance of responsible AI use, ethical considerations, equity, and transparency while providing practical guidance for educators and school leaders to integrate AI effectively.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Kentucky's educational context, including references to the Kentucky Educational Technology Systems (KETS) Master Plan.
2. Inclusion of "Policy-in-Action Spotlights" highlighting specific roles and programs implementing AI in Kentucky schools.
3. Discussion of three paradigms for AI in education: AI-directed, AI-supported, and AI-empowered learning.
4. Emphasis on treating AI similarly to other emerging technologies to normalize its use and mitigate unfounded fears.
5. Connection of AI literacy to digital citizenship and computer science education initiatives in Kentucky.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) provides a framework for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education.
Released in Fall 2024, it covers key areas such as AI implementation strategies, challenges, safeguards, technical considerations, and relevant laws and policies. The guidance emphasizes responsible AI integration while prioritizing student safety, data privacy, and educational effectiveness.
Unique aspects include:
1. LDOE Framework for AI Integration: Features a four-component cyclical approach focusing on Purpose & Research, Policy & Guidance, Engage Stakeholders, and Evaluation & Monitoring, designed specifically for Louisiana's educational context.
2. AI Integration Tiered Approach: Introduces a unique four-tier system (AI-Empowered, AI-Enhanced, AI-Assisted, and AI-Prohibited) aligned with the SAMR model for technology integration, providing clear guidance on appropriate AI usage levels.
3. Comprehensive Safeguards: Detailed recommendations at both system and classroom levels, including specific considerations for data storage, software approval processes, monitoring protocols, and human oversight requirements.
4. Detailed Technical Implementation Guidance: Addresses specific infrastructure needs, including bandwidth considerations, cybersecurity protocols, and digital citizenship requirements for AI integration.
5. Louisiana-Specific Legal Framework: References state-specific laws and regulations (e.g., Louisiana Student Privacy Law R.S. 17:3914) alongside federal regulations, providing a localized legal context for AI implementation.
6. Practical Resource Integration: Includes a curated list of AI-powered tools for teachers with age-band recommendations and specific use cases, plus a comprehensive glossary of AI terms relevant to education.
The document stands out for its practical, implementation-focused approach while maintaining strong emphasis on student privacy, data security, and ethical considerations. It provides a balanced framework that promotes innovation while safeguarding student interests in Louisiana's educational context.
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This guidance document from the Minnesota Department of Education provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as guiding principles, opportunities and challenges of learning with AI, creating guidance for AI implementation, and resources for further information. The guidance emphasizes responsible AI use, centering people in decision-making, and advancing equity.
Unique aspects include:
1. Focus on Minnesota's educational context, including references to state statutes and local school district examples.
2. Emphasis on starting with existing guidance and policies when implementing AI.
3. Recommendation to prioritize learning and AI literacy for all staff and students.
4. Encouragement of innovation and knowledge sharing in AI use.
5. Comprehensive list of resources, including those from other states and national organizations.
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This guidance document from the Mississippi Department of Education provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as defining AI, its impact on the classroom, leveraging AI for learning, and considerations for creating AI use policies. The guidance is organized around five components of digital learning: digital citizenship, standards-aligned content and tools, active learning and engagement, formative assessment and feedback, and accessibility.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Mississippi's educational context, including references to state standards and initiatives.
2. Emphasis on the importance of human oversight and critical thinking when using AI tools.
3. Detailed strategies for students, teachers, and administrators to leverage AI in each of the five digital learning components.
4. Discussion of AI training needs for all stakeholders, including topics like informed use, accuracy checking, and bias awareness.
5. Inclusion of a curated list of AI tools and resources for classroom use.
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This guidance document from New Jersey provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as foundational AI terms and concepts, AI system classifications, and resources for learning about and teaching AI. The guidance emphasizes the importance of educators and students developing skills to navigate AI systems and prepare for changing workplaces.
Includes:
1. Glossary of key AI terms and concepts, including examples for each.
2. Classification of AI systems into weak/narrow AI and strong/general AI.
3. Curated list of resources for educators to learn about AI and teach AI concepts to students.
4. Inclusion of links to free AI applications for exploration and hands-on learning.
5. References to New Jersey-specific resources, such as a pre-recorded technical assistance webinar on AI in education.
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This robust and practical guidance document from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction provides detailed recommendations for implementing artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as leadership and vision, human capacity, curriculum and instruction, data privacy and cybersecurity, and technology infrastructure. The guidance emphasizes responsible AI implementation, AI literacy for all, and the importance of adapting to rapid technological changes.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on North Carolina's educational context, including references to state standards and initiatives.
2. Detailed AI implementation roadmap for public schools based on AI for Education's work.
3. Emphasis on AI literacy across all grade levels, with specific recommendations by grade span.
4. Inclusion of frameworks like CRAFT for effective AI prompting and AI for Education's EVERY for responsible AI use.
5. Guidance on creating AI guidelines and evaluating generative AI edtech tools at individual schools
5. Comprehensive list of free resources for school leaders, staff development, and teaching students about AI.
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This guidance document from North Dakota provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as implementation roadmaps, AI strengths and weaknesses, considerations for different student grade levels, and AI for accessibility. The guidance emphasizes the importance of responsible AI implementation, human oversight, and AI literacy.
Unique aspects include:
1. A focus on North Dakota's educational context and initiatives.
2. Inclusion of a detailed implementation roadmap and checklist for schools based on AI for Education's work.
3. Brief history of AI development and its impact on education.
4. Specific considerations for AI implementation at different grade levels (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12).
5. Discussion of AI's potential for enhancing accessibility and personalized learning for students with special needs.
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This AI toolkit from Ohio provides guidance and resources for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as policy development, resources for stakeholders, and summaries of relevant AI guidelines. The toolkit emphasizes the importance of a methodical approach to translating high-level principles into actionable policies for AI in education, while providing practical resources for policymakers, teachers, and parents.
Includes:
1. A step-by-step approach to policy development for AI in education, from landscape analysis to implementation.
2. Detailed summaries and analysis of 21 sets of AI guidelines, both education-specific and general.
3. Focus on Ohio's educational context and the need for trusted resources for educators.
4. Inclusion of resources specifically tailored for policymakers, teachers, and parents.
5. Summary table showing each guideline's coverage of policy development steps and relevance for different stakeholders.
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This guidance document from the Oklahoma State Department of Education provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as understanding AI in education, benefits and risks, roles and responsibilities, academic integrity, essential elements for classroom integration, and implementation considerations. The guidance emphasizes responsible AI use, data privacy, and the importance of human oversight in AI implementation.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Oklahoma's educational context, including references to state initiatives and academic standards.
2. Detailed AI Acceptable Use Rating Scale for managing student AI use in assignments.
3. Three essential elements for integrating AI in the classroom: transparency, rigor, and curiosity.
4. Risk assessment framework for AI tools categorized as low, medium, and high risk.
5. Comprehensive list of resources for school leaders, staff development, and teaching students about AI, including AI for Education's free curriculum and prompt library for educators.
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This guidance document from the Oregon Department of Education provides an overview of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as defining generative AI, equity implications, data privacy considerations, potential classroom applications, and policy development guidance. The guidance emphasizes responsible AI use, addressing equity impacts, and the importance of human oversight in AI implementation.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Oregon's educational context, including references to state policies like the Oregon Student Information Protection Act.
2. Detailed table of strategies to address equity impacts of AI use in classrooms, covering issues like bias, inaccuracy, and plagiarism.
3. Table of potential instructional strategies for using generative AI in K-12 classrooms across various areas.
4. Discussion of AI's potential to support students with disabilities and multilingual learners.
5. References to Oregon-specific resources like the "Key Components of Digital Learning" and "Online and Remote Learning Guidance" for policy development.
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This framework document from the Utah State Board of Education provides guidance on the appropriate and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Utah's P-12 education system. It covers key areas such as guiding principles, responsible and prohibited uses of AI tools, and special considerations for security, privacy, and safety. The guidance emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that maximizes learning opportunities while addressing potential risks and security concerns.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Utah's educational context, including references to state codes and existing policies.
2. Emphasis on maintaining student and teacher agency when using AI tools.
3. Commitment to educating staff and students about AI literacy.
4. Inclusion of a section on prohibited uses of AI tools, addressing issues like plagiarism and privacy concerns.
5. Recognition of the need for regular review and updates to the framework due to the rapidly evolving nature of AI technologies.
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This comprehensive guidance document from Virginia outlines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as AI literacy, ethical considerations, responsible implementation, and supporting educators with AI tools. The guidelines emphasize the importance of balancing AI's potential benefits with safeguarding student privacy and ensuring equitable access.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Virginia's educational context, referencing state standards and local examples.
2. Emphasis on balancing AI benefits with ethical considerations like privacy and equity.
3. Recommendations for professional development and AI literacy programs for educators.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction provides a framework for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 education. It covers key areas such as understanding AI, ethical considerations, implementation strategies across grade levels and subject areas, and recommendations for educators, administrators, and other stakeholders. The guidance emphasizes a human-centered approach to AI in education, focusing on the "Human AI Human" (H AI H) model that prioritizes human inquiry and empowerment.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on Washington state's educational context, including references to state policies and local school district examples.
2. Detailed 5-step scaffolding scale for student AI use, ranging from no AI assistance to AI as co-creator.
3. Inclusion of sample classroom protocols, student AI code of conduct, and professional ethics for educators.
4. Emphasis on equity considerations and supporting students with diverse needs.
5. Incorporation of AI use in the document's creation process, with a disclaimer acknowledging responsible AI engagement.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the West Virginia Department of Education provides a framework for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 education in West Virginia schools. It covers key areas such as understanding AI, ethical considerations, implementation strategies across grade levels, and recommendations for educators, administrators, and other stakeholders. The guidance emphasizes a human-centered approach to AI in education, focusing on responsible and safe use while leveraging AI's potential to enhance learning.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on West Virginia's educational context, including references to state policies and alignment with existing West Virginia Board of Education policies.
2. Inclusion of a version history table to track updates to the guidance over time as AI rapidly evolves.
3. Emphasis on computational thinking as a framework for teaching AI literacy to students.
4. Detailed prohibited uses of AI tools in educational settings to mitigate risks.
5. Provision of a Canvas self-enrolling resource directory for educators to access additional AI-related materials and professional development resources.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction provides a framework for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 education and library settings in Wisconsin. It covers key areas such as core concepts and goals, partner engagement, ethics and data privacy, security and infrastructure, professional development, curriculum and pedagogy, and continuous improvement strategies. The guidance emphasizes a human-centered approach to AI in education, focusing on responsible and ethical use while leveraging AI's potential to enhance learning and library services.
Includes:
1. Specific focus on both K-12 education and public libraries in Wisconsin.
2. Inclusion of a "Human > AI > Human" (H > AI > H) mnemonic tool to remind users of responsible AI use practices.
3. Emphasis on five training pillars for K-12 educators, including hands-on AI experiences and continuous learning.
4. Detailed recommendations for AI literacy across different grade spans (elementary, middle, and high school).
5. Provision of Wisconsin-specific resources and professional development opportunities, such as SLATE conferences and CESA-based workshops.
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This comprehensive guidance document from the Wyoming Department of Education provides a framework for developing artificial intelligence (AI) use policies in K-12 education. It covers key areas such as defining AI, guidelines for policy development, guiding principles, and questions to consider when implementing AI in educational settings. The guidance emphasizes the importance of responsible and ethical use of AI while leveraging its potential to enhance teaching and learning.
Unique aspects include:
1. Specific focus on Wyoming's educational context, including alignment with the state's Digital Learning Plan.
2. Emphasis on a cyclical process for policy development, involving continuous improvement and organizational learning.
3. Detailed guidance on forming an AI guidance team with diverse stakeholders.
4. Inclusion of a "Student AI Usage Continuum for Empowered Learning" to help determine appropriate AI use in classrooms.
5. Recognition of AI as a rapidly evolving field, with commitment to regular review and updates of the guidance.
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