NYC schools pause edtech purchases amid AI policy review

New York City principals have been told to pause purchases of new education technology software while the school system reworks its approach to AI. Chancellor Kamar Samuels said updated guidance on AI and screen use will arrive later this summer, framing the delay as a way to balance technology readiness with safety, developmental needs, transparency and oversight.

The pause follows criticism of draft AI guidance released in March. That plan used a “traffic light approach” that barred educators from using AI for grades, promotions, discipline and counseling, while allowing limited use for tasks such as family communications and lesson planning. It offered less clarity on student use, advising educators to use “caution” for research and projects.

Thousands of parents have called for a moratorium on AI in schools, citing concerns about children’s cognitive development, privacy and environmental harm. American Federation of Teachers president Randi Weingarten has also called for a ban on AI in elementary schools, no chatbots for kids under 16, and a screen ban in pre-K through second grade. Education officials said the purchasing pause is meant to ensure safety and privacy protocols are in place.