New York City Bans Generative AI Through Eighth Grade

September 03, 2026
New York City public schools will prohibit students through eighth grade from using generative AI tools during the 2026 to 2027 school year.

New York City public schools will prohibit students through eighth grade from using generative AI tools during the 2026 to 2027 school year, according to Fox Business. The one year moratorium will apply to about 600,000 students.

The policy covers student facing generative AI software, while companion chatbots will be prohibited across all grades. The New York City Department of Education will allow exceptions for assistive technology, multilingual learners, career readiness programs, and computer science courses. Teachers may use approved AI tools for lesson planning and administrative tasks.

High school students will receive AI literacy lessons twice each year, and some will join supervised pilot programs involving five AI platforms. During the moratorium, educators, parents, and elected officials will study how generative AI affects children and recommend future rules.

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