Microsoft agrees on AI rules for US schools with 2 federations

Microsoft has agreed with the 2 main US teacher federations on rules for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in schools. The legally binding agreement was reached after several months of negotiations with the American Federation of Teachers and the United Federation of Teachers. The step was taken because no federal law has been enacted to address the excessive use of artificial intelligence in schools. The rules will apply to educational institutions nationwide.

The agreement focuses primarily on data protection. The use of student and teacher data to train or improve AI models is prohibited. Collected data will not be sold, processed for other purposes, or used to generate revenue. Schools will control how the data is stored and when it is deleted.

Schools themselves will decide which AI tools are used in the classroom. Companies that develop these tools must clearly explain product changes, potential risks, and the data collected to schools and parents. AI systems must remain under human oversight, block harmful actions, and protect sensitive data. The rules cover teachers, students, and parents.

The agreement also includes rules for reducing screen time and ensuring age-appropriate, balanced use of technology. A moratorium on AI use had previously been imposed in the New York City school system. The Los Angeles Unified School District had also implemented a similar ban. New York City has also adopted federation rules limiting screen time and AI use for minors.

Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith said the standard would be rolled out to all school districts in the country. The American Federation of Teachers is talking with OpenAI and Anthropic about having those companies adopt the same rules. The initiative is intended to preserve teachers’ control over instruction and protect the personal data of students and families.