New York is banning students up to 8th grade from using generative artificial intelligence tools in public schools for the 2026-2027 academic year. Controlled pilot programs will be implemented in high schools.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a regulation banning students in public schools up to and including 8th grade from using generative artificial intelligence tools for one year during the 2026-2027 academic year. The decision is expected to affect approximately 600,000 students.
Mamdani stated that the primary goal of the decision is to preserve "human connection" in classrooms. According to the mayor, students should develop their problem-solving and social skills by interacting with their teachers and peers, rather than relying on chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini.
Mamdani added that technology is not being rejected, but it should not be integrated into the educational process without ensuring it benefits students.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence to Be Studied for One Year
The ban will be in effect throughout the 2026-2027 academic year. During this period, a group consisting of educators, parents, and elected officials will conduct studies examining the impact of generative artificial intelligence on children.
Following the results, the group plans to prepare recommendations for the next steps regarding how artificial intelligence should be used in schools.
There are no such restrictions for high schools. However, some high schools will be able to participate in generative AI pilot programs. This aims to allow students to use technology in a controlled environment and observe its effects. Additionally, all high school students will receive lessons twice a year aimed at developing their critical thinking skills related to artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, the bans and restrictions will only apply to students. Teachers will be able to continue using AI tools in lessons or for administrative tasks.
Additionally, exceptions will be made for some students. Assistive technologies used by students with disabilities, the needs of students who know or are learning multiple languages, and AI tools used within career preparation programs, including computer science, may be exempt from the ban.
Screen Time Limits Also Being Introduced
The new policy does not only regulate AI use. New daily targets for children's screen time are also being introduced. Accordingly, a daily screen time limit of 30 minutes is recommended for many primary school students, and 45 minutes for middle school students. However, it is explicitly stated that these are not mandatory bans. Therefore, families will be able to make their own decisions regarding their children's screen use at home.
Beyond New York, international restrictions on children's use of generative AI are also increasing. Norway has implemented a similar ban, while Italy has adopted a regulation requiring parental consent for children under 14 to use AI.
Frankly, a similar regulation in Turkey could also be beneficial. There is a particular need for greater public and parental awareness regarding children's screen times. According to the Ministry of Family and Social Services, recommended screen times for age groups should be as follows:
- 0-3 Years: No usage except for video calls.
- 3 Years: Maximum 30 minutes daily.
- 4 Years: Maximum 40 minutes daily.
- 5 Years: Maximum 50 minutes daily.
- 6 Years: Maximum 60 minutes (1 hour) daily.
- Primary and Middle School Age (6-12 Years): Maximum 1-2 hours daily.
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