Florida approves AI rules for public schools and colleges

The Florida State Board of Education approved two rules governing AI use in public schools and colleges at its September 16 meeting, according to the board's meeting materials. The Department of Education published separate requirements for K to 12 schools and Florida College System institutions.

By July 1, 2027, school districts and charter school boards must add AI requirements to their internet safety policies. Parents must receive notice of approved instructional tools and opt children into direct use, with a comparable option that does not use AI. The policies must also require additional review for tools used from voluntary prekindergarten through fifth grade, maintain public lists of approved tools and retain student interactions for at least 30 days.

Schools cannot approve AI tools designed to meet students' social or emotional needs, simulate relationships or encourage continued interaction through humanlike features. Approved tools also cannot sell, monetize or commercially exploit student data to train commercial models. Florida College System institutions must adopt policies covering approved uses, privacy, academic integrity and AI literacy. Students cannot use AI on graded work unless an instructor explicitly permits it.