Kamar Samuels, chancellor of New York City Public Schools, testifies during a New York City Council preliminary budget hearing on education at City Hall on Monday, March 23, 2026.
Photo by Emil Cohen/NYC Council Media Unit
NYC Public Schools rolled out new guidance on Tuesday for teachers using AI that is riddled with warnings and concerns around potential privacy violations, data accuracy and risks of spreading misinformation.
Despite acknowledging these critical reservations, the school system proceeded with implementation, stating that the technological benefits outweigh the associated risks so long as the school community follows the guidance.
The city’s Department of Education said it is actively encouraging educators and school leaders to use AI for various tasks, such as getting inspiration for lesson ideas, summarizing non-sensitive information and translation services.
However, the guidance states that for many tasks, “human review and ownership are required before distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive materials, with heightened attention to tone, accuracy, and impact.”
Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels said that the new AI policy aims to support the teaching process “without compromising on safety or academic integrity, while teaching our children when and how to use AI appropriately.”
Red light, green light for AI
The guidance was developed over the last year in partnership with the internal NYC Public Schools AI Task Force, a panel for the education policy data privacy working group, and an AI advisory council, which included industry leaders, scholars, educators, and school leaders.
The guidance takes a “traffic light” approach to support decision-making around AI applications in educational settings. But as AI continues to expand, Samuels explained that it is not meant to be a substitute for teachers.
“While there is no tool or resource in the world that can replace what our teachers bring to their classrooms every day, AI can be used as a powerful tool to make the work of our educators more efficient, giving them more time to focus on supporting our students as they develop essential critical thinking skills,” he said.
The initial guidance is designed to help school staff use AI “thoughtfully, ethically and responsibly.” It also stresses that human judgment is essential when checking materials created by AI.
Per the guidance, AI is off limits for decisions about students, EIP and 504 development, grades and assessment, surveillance and behavior, and care counseling.
“These uses are completely off-limits. They represent the highest risk to students, families, and the fairness of our school system. No exceptions,” the guidance states.
amNewYork contacted the teachers’ union, the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), for its members’ thoughts on the new guidance, and is awaiting a response.
Meanwhile, parents and teachers can provide feedback during a comment period through May 8. A survey is available online at schools.nyc.gov.