On Wednesday, the Florida State Board of Education sanctioned fresh artificial intelligence regulations for public schools. K-12 districts and the 28 institutions in the Florida College System fall under these rules. Schools must now alert parents before using any AI tool in the classroom. Families must actively opt their child in if a student will use the tool directly.
Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis made his stance clear during the announcement. He stated, “Florida will not outsource childhood to a chatbot.” The new policy ensures that a parent has the last word on what enters the classroom. Families who decline the AI tools will receive comparable alternatives that do not use the technology.
Schools are strictly forbidden from using AI products designed to meet students’ social or emotional needs. Schools cannot use tools that simulate friendship or use humanlike features to keep children talking. AI tools are also banned from secretly tracking student behavior or assigning social scores. Providers cannot sell student data or use it to train commercial models.
Teachers and administrators must receive specific training on AI risks and limitations. According to reports, unsupervised AI use will not be permitted anywhere in the district. Unless an instructor gives permission, students may not use AI on graded assignments at Florida College System institutions. Colleges must also establish clear policies for academic integrity and student privacy.
Education Commissioner Henry Mack, a DeSantis ally, explained the state’s approach to these new tools. He stated, “An educated person can use a powerful tool without becoming dependent on it.” Mack emphasized that AI belongs in a classroom only when it sharpens instruction and leaves the student’s mind stronger. He added that it does not belong when it writes the essay or coopts critical thinking.
State Board of Education Chair Ryan Petty warned that innovation without conditions is not leadership. He called such actions an abdication of responsibility by school officials. Districts across the state must finalize their updated policies by July 1, 2027. This deadline ensures schools are ready for the 2027-2028 school year.
According to the Daily Wire, the regulations view AI as a workforce reality instead of a classroom fad.
